Positioning:
The E23 7 Series represented BMW's flagship luxury sedan, competing with high-end offerings from Mercedes-Benz and other European luxury manufacturers.
Competitors:
Primary competitors included the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126), Jaguar XJ, and Cadillac Eldorado.
Luxuries:
Known for its advanced engineering, driver-oriented cockpit, and sophisticated ride quality for its era.
Value Proposition:
This manual is presented as the exact same resource used by dealership technicians, offering comprehensive, vehicle-specific repair information for all models and repairs.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed repair, overhaul, and diagnosis of all E23 engine variants.
Engine Control System:
Diagnosis and repair of fuel injection, ignition timing, and emission control systems.
Fuel System:
Service, troubleshooting, and specifications for fuel delivery, injection, and carburetor systems (if applicable).
Emission Control:
Information on emission control devices, diagnosis, and adjustments.
Cooling System:
Maintenance, repair, and diagnosis of the cooling system and components.
Lubrication System:
Service and specifications related to engine lubrication.
Ignition Charging Starting:
Diagnosis, repair, and specifications for the ignition, charging (alternator), and starting (starter) systems.
Automatic Transmission:
Service, repair, and diagnosis for automatic transmissions specific to the E23 chassis.
Manual Transmission:
Service, repair, and diagnosis for manual transmissions specific to the E23 chassis.
Drivetrain:
Coverage of transfer case, propeller shaft, drive shaft, differential, and axle components.
Suspension:
Diagnosis, repair, and specifications for front and rear suspension systems.
Steering:
Service and repair for steering column and power steering systems.
Brakes:
Comprehensive coverage of brake control systems, hydraulic components, parking brake, and related specifications.
Wheels Tires:
Specifications and service information related to wheels and tires.
Climate Control:
Diagnosis and repair of the air conditioning system.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including wiring schematics.
Lighting Signals:
Service and repair for headlights, taillights, turn signals, and other exterior lighting.
Instrumentation:
Diagnosis and repair of instrument cluster components, gauges, and warning lights.
Interior Trim:
Information on seats, door panels, headliner, and other interior components.
Exterior Body:
Service and repair for body panels, doors, hood, glass, and mirrors.
Safety Systems:
Information on supplementary restraint systems (airbags, if equipped), seat belts, and potentially engine immobilizer.
Cruise Control:
Service and diagnosis for the cruise control system.
Wipers Washers:
Diagnosis and repair of the windshield wiper and washer system.
Audio Visual:
Information related to the car's audio system components.
Multiplex Can Communication:
While CAN communication is typically a later development, this may refer to early forms of data networking or specific diagnostic protocols for the era.
Maintenance:
Complete step-by-step instructions for routine maintenance tasks.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides and diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving issues.
Repair:
Detailed repair instructions for virtually all vehicle components.
Overhaul:
Instructions for complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step guides for replacing individual parts and assemblies.
Wiring Schematics:
Inclusion of detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems.
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. The manual will provide precise intervals.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plug replacement and other tune-up items usually recommended around 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km).
Timing Belt Chain:
M30 engines use a timing chain, which typically requires inspection but not periodic replacement like a belt, though tensioners and guides may need attention over time.
Engine Oil:
Specific viscosity grades (e.g., 20W-50 or 10W-40) and API service classifications will be detailed. Likely a high-quality synthetic or semi-synthetic oil recommended.
Coolant:
A mixture of antifreeze (ethylene glycol based) and water, typically 50/50, with specific anti-corrosion additives. Manual will specify type and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid, depending on system design. Manual will specify type and change interval.
Common Wear Items:
Potential issues include cooling system component failures (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel injector problems, suspension bushings, and aging electrical components (e.g., Motronic ECU).
Corrosion:
Like many European cars of this era, rust can be an issue, particularly in wheel wells, rocker panels, and around windows.