Era:
Flagship luxury sedan of its era, representing BMW's pinnacle of engineering and comfort
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform professional-level maintenance and repairs, enthusiasts, independent workshops
Competitors Of Era:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126), Audi V8, Jaguar XJ (Series III)
Luxury Appointments:
Supple leather, wood trim, advanced climate control, sophisticated ride quality
Engineering:
Renowned BMW inline-six engines, rear-wheel drive, refined handling and braking
Accuracy:
Vehicle-specific, factory-authorized information, not generic data
Completeness:
A-to-Z coverage for all maintenance, diagnosis, and repair procedures
Usability:
Digital format allows for selective printing and easy access to specific information
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul for all E23 engines (e.g., M30 inline-six variants)
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (L-Jetronic/Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, fuel tank service
Ignition System:
Ignition coil, distributor, spark plugs, timing, electronic ignition control
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, coolant specifications
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil specifications, oil change procedures
Emission Control:
Exhaust system, catalytic converter, emissions testing procedures, vacuum routing
Intake And Exhaust:
Intake manifold, exhaust manifold, emissions control related components
Transmission Automatic:
ZF automatic transmission (e.g., 4HP22), diagnosis, fluid service, rebuild procedures
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission (if applicable for specific E23 variants), clutch service, gearbox overhaul
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, universal joints, driveshaft center support bearing, differential, axle shafts
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, springs, wheel bearings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering box, pump, hydraulic lines, steering column, steering wheel removal
Brakes Hydraulic:
Brake system diagnosis, master cylinder, brake lines, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures
Brakes Disc:
Front and rear brake calipers, rotors, brake pads, servicing and replacement
Parking Brake:
Parking brake system operation, adjustment, and repair
Electrical System General:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring harness overview
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, bulb specifications, wiring diagrams
Instrumentation:
Instrument cluster diagnosis, gauges, warning lights, speedometer, tachometer
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, heater core, blower motor
Body Electrical:
Power windows, door locks, mirrors, central locking system, comfort features
Body Exterior:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, trim, glass replacement
Body Interior:
Seat removal, dashboard disassembly, headliner, carpeting, interior trim panels
Safety Restraint:
Seat belts, (Note: SRS airbags were not standard or common in 1984 E23 models)
Cruise Control:
Cruise control system diagnosis and repair
Wiper Washer:
Wiper motor, linkages, washer pump, fluid reservoir, wiper blade replacement
Audio Visual:
Radio, speaker installation and removal, antenna systems
Multiplex Can Communication:
This manual predates modern CAN bus systems. Focus is on individual component wiring and diagnostics.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, battery maintenance
Diagnostics:
Component testing, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical circuit analysis
Repair Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system repair
Installation:
Component installation and replacement for all major vehicle systems
Wiring Schematics:
Comprehensive and detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step troubleshooting procedures for common and complex issues
Depth:
Complete, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds
Detail Level:
Factory-level detail with step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic data
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type
Spark Plugs:
Recommended replacement every 30,000-50,000 miles, depending on plug type
Transmission Fluid Change:
Often recommended at 50,000-100,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on manufacturer recommendations at the time
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 20W-50, 15W-40, or synthetic equivalents) and API service classification
Coolant:
BMW approved coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-II or equivalent ATF fluid, specific to ZF transmissions
Engine Management:
L-Jetronic/Motronic system issues, distributor wear, vacuum leaks
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, sagging front springs, worn shock absorbers
Electrical Gremlins:
Age-related electrical issues, degraded wiring insulation, faulty relays, instrument cluster problems
Cooling System:
Leaking radiator, failing water pump, thermostat housing leaks
Body Corrosion:
Rusting in common areas like wheel arches, rocker panels, and around windows