Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer / Sports Coupe
Key Competitors:
Porsche 911, Jaguar XJ-S, Mercedes-Benz SEC models
Bmw Philosophy:
Emphasizes performance, luxury, and engineering precision
Target Audience:
BMW M6 E24 owners, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts
Benefit:
Saves time and money on repairs, empowers owners with knowledge, maintains vehicle integrity
Primary Coverage:
1985 BMW M6 (E24) all models and all repairs A-Z
Diagnostic Coverage:
Comprehensive diagnostics and troubleshooting
Maintenance Coverage:
Routine maintenance and scheduled servicing
Repair Coverage:
All mechanical, electrical, and bodywork repairs
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (specific page count not provided, but described as comprehensive)
Type:
Factory Service and Repair Manual
Digital Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip
File Characteristics:
Printable, zoomable images
Operating Systems:
Windows Vista (32/64), XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000; Mac compatible
Engine:
Complete engine service, rebuild, tuning, fuel system, intake, exhaust, cooling, lubrication
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, transfer case, propeller shaft, drive shaft, differential, axles
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering column, power steering systems
Brakes:
Brake control system, hydraulic brakes, parking brake
Electrical:
Ignition, starting, charging system, wiring schematics, multiplex/CAN communication, instrument panel, lighting
Comfort Convenience:
Air conditioning, climate control, power windows, door locks, seat belts, supplementary restraint systems (SRS), cruise control, wipers and washers
Body Interior:
Exterior and interior trim, engine hood, doors, glass, mirrors, seats, body panels
Emission Control:
Emission control systems and specifications
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, tune-ups, belt inspections and replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for all major systems, troubleshooting guides
Repair Procedures:
Detailed, step-by-step repair instructions for all components and systems, including major overhauls and component replacements
Wiring Schematics:
Complete and detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems
Adjustment Procedures:
Precise adjustment procedures for engine components, brakes, steering, etc.
Depth:
Factory-level technical detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Illustration Quality:
High-quality diagrams and illustrations for clarity
Displacement:
3.5 Liters (3453 cc)
Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 256 hp @ 6,300 rpm (DIN)
Torque:
Approx. 333 Nm (246 lb-ft) @ 4,500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled
Oil Type Specification:
API SF or higher, viscosity 20W-50 recommended for many climates (refer to manual for precise specs)
Type:
5-speed manual Getrag 280/5CS
Type:
ZF 4-speed automatic (less common for M6)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulic actuation
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommended gear oil (e.g., 75W-90 GL-5, refer to manual for specific part number/spec)
Length:
Approx. 4,840 mm (190.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,798 mm (70.8 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,376 mm (54.2 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,765 mm (108.9 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,700 kg (3,748 lbs)
Gross Weight Rating:
Approx. 2,130 kg (4,700 lbs)
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data available for this era; designed with structural integrity for the period.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts
Restraints:
Reinforced safety cage, energy-absorbing steering column, padded interior surfaces
Brakes:
Four-wheel disc brakes with ventilated front rotors
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Standard on M6
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to manual for specific driving conditions)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically 30,000 miles for correct specification plugs
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as specified by BMW
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for precise specification and BMW part number)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or BMW specified fluid
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Common Problems:
Seat frame rust, fuel distributor seal leaks, headlight seal deterioration, clutch slave cylinder leaks, vanos issues (if applicable to specific engine variants, though S38 does not have VANOS), electronic control unit (ECU) failures, window regulator issues, rust in common E24 areas (wheel wells, rockers).
Valve Lash Adjustment:
Manual specifies cold valve lash adjustment procedures (refer to manual for exact clearances)
Idle Speed:
Refer to manual for exact RPM specifications under various conditions
Bmw Motorsport:
Represents BMW's high-performance division, M GmbH, known for racing pedigree and enhanced road cars
E24 Platform:
Based on the BMW 6 Series (E24) platform, a personal luxury coupe
M6 Development:
Developed as a homologation special for racing, particularly the European Group A Touring Car Championship
Production Years:
E24 M6 produced from 1983-1989 (US model year 1983-1988)
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
