Market Segment:
Luxury Sedan / Executive Car
Competitors Era:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126), Jaguar XJ, Cadillac Fleetwood, Lincoln Continental
Key Selling Points:
German engineering, superior driving dynamics, refined luxury, advanced technology for its time
Brand Philosophy:
The Ultimate Driving Machine
Historical Significance:
Represents a pivotal generation for BMW's flagship sedan, solidifying its reputation in the luxury market.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system
Drivetrain:
Transmission (manual & automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differentials
Chassis And Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, steering system, wheel bearings, alignment
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, calipers, pads, rotors, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, power accessories, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, HVAC system, climate control
Safety Systems:
Seat belts, airbags (if applicable for late models), structural integrity
Instrument Cluster:
Diagnosis and repair of gauges, warning lights, and onboard computer systems (if applicable).
Climate Control:
HVAC system components, refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater core, and control module diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common problems, fault code interpretation (OBD-I for later models), diagnostic procedures
Repair:
Component removal and installation, component overhaul, adjustments, calibration
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for various symptoms
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics covering all vehicle systems.
Alignment Specifications:
Detailed front and rear wheel alignment angles, toe, camber, and caster specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics and repair, and bodywork procedures.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves), and reassembly.
Transmission Repair:
Specific instructions for manual and automatic transmission overhauls, including torque specifications and seal replacements.
Fuel System Diagnosis:
Troubleshooting procedures for fuel pumps, injectors, pressure regulators, and metering units.
Engine Type:
Inline-6 Cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3210 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 to 8.5:1 (depending on market/year)
Horsepower Net:
Approx. 181-194 hp @ 5500 rpm (varies by market and year)
Torque Net:
Approx. 207-210 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm (varies by market and year)
Engine Type:
Inline-6 Cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
3.4 Liters (3430 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 to 8.5:1 (depending on market/year)
Horsepower Net:
Approx. 182-215 hp @ 5400-5800 rpm (varies by market and year)
Torque Net:
Approx. 214-232 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm (varies by market and year)
Fuel Injection:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic (depending on year and model variant)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Octane Recommended)
Crash Test Ratings:
NHTSA ratings from the era were less standardized. Focus was on passive safety engineering.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on later models (likely standard on 735i towards end of production).
Traction Control:
Not typically available on these specific models.
Airbags:
Driver airbag became available on later models, often as an option or standard on higher trims/later years.
Seat Belts:
3-point front seat belts, often with pre-tensioners on later models. Rear lap belts.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact specification).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Timing Belt Chain:
M30 engines use a timing chain, which typically lasts the life of the engine, though tensioner/guides may require inspection/replacement.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 recommended (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5-7.0 US quarts (6.2-6.6 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, front/rear main seals. Issues with fuel metering heads (L-Jetronic), distributor cap/rotor wear.
Cooling System:
Radiator leaks, thermostat housing leaks, fan clutch failure.
Electrical:
Corrosion on connectors, aging wiring harnesses, failing fuel pump relays, headlamp switch issues.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, rear subframe bushings, strut mounts.
Interior:
Headliner sagging, EATC (Electronic Automatic Climate Control) module failure, HVAC blower motor resistor failure.
Brand Focus:
Performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.
E23 Generation:
The E23 was BMW's first true full-size luxury sedan, introduced in 1977 and produced until 1986. The 1983-1987 manual covers the latter part of this generation, including significant updates.
Updates During Period:
Mid-cycle updates included aerodynamic enhancements, interior refinements, introduction of Motronic fuel injection, optional ABS, and the larger 735i engine option becoming more prevalent.
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
Production Years E23:
1977-1986
