Vehicle Class:
Full-size luxury sedan
Target Audience Manual:
BMW enthusiasts, professional mechanics, DIY owners of the E32 7 Series
Competitors E32:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126), Lexus LS 400 (introduced 1989), Jaguar XJ6
Design Philosophy:
Sophisticated engineering, driver-focused luxury, advanced technology for its era
Primary Value Proposition:
Authoritative, factory-correct information for accurate and efficient repair and maintenance
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection (Motronic), ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22) operation, diagnosis, repair, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, rear axle assembly
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, power steering
Braking Systems:
Hydraulic braking system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instrumentation, horn, wipers, power windows, seats, mirrors, central locking
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, sound deadening
Exhaust Systems:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes
Repair Disassembly Assembly:
Complete step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, and reassembly
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, symptom-based troubleshooting charts
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Special Tools:
Identification and use of specialized BMW tools required for specific procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)
Digital Format Availability:
Typically available as PDF (if digital), but this listing is for a physical book.
Print Quality:
High-quality, designed for shop environment
Binding:
Professional binding (e.g., spiral bound or case bound for durability)
Paper Quality:
Durable, often coated paper to resist grease and wear
Transmission Type:
ZF 4HP22 Automatic Transmission
Manual Transmission Option:
Not typically available for US market E32 models in 1988.
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled automatic with sport/economy modes (depending on specific build).
Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW ATF (Dexron II or equivalent recommended in manual)
NHTSA Ratings 1988:
Specific NHTSA ratings for 1988 E32 are not readily available in a standardized format; however, it was designed to high safety standards.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard (ABS III)
Traction Control:
Optional (ASC - Automatic Stability Control) on later models, may not be present on all '88 models.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag was optional and became more common towards the end of the E32's production run. Not standard on all 1988 models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones
Audio System:
Optional Hi-Fi sound system with cassette player and radio
Navigation:
Early BMW navigation systems (optional, less advanced than modern units).
Park Distance Control:
Optional, introduced later in the E32 lifecycle.
Telecommunications:
Optional early cellular telephone integration.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (check manual for exact spec).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles, or as per manual (often considered 'lifetime' by some, but fluid degrades).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 15W-40 or 5W-30 (synthetic recommended for best performance/protection). Refer to manual for exact viscosity.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Common E32 Problems:
Cooling system leaks (hose degradation, water pump), SRS warning light, idle control valve issues, fuel pump failure, door seal degradation, headlight leveling system.
Preventative Maintenance Focus:
Crucial to maintain cooling system, check electrical connections, and address any oil/fluid leaks promptly.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, high-performance luxury vehicles.
E32 Introduction:
The E32 generation replaced the E23 7 Series and was produced from 1986 to 1994.
E32 Design Era:
Marked a significant design departure with cleaner lines and a more aerodynamic profile, penned by Claus Luthe.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (Dingolfing Plant)
E32 Variants:
735i, 735iL, 740i (from 1992), 750iL (V12, from 1987)
