Vehicle Class:
Full-size luxury sedan
Target Audience Manual:
BMW owners, independent repair shops, DIY enthusiasts
Historical Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Jaguar XJ, Cadillac Fleetwood, Lincoln Continental
Styling:
Classic BMW design language, understated elegance
Engineering:
Focus on driving dynamics, driver comfort, and advanced engineering for its era
Authenticity:
Factory service manual used by dealerships
Usability:
Single, easy-to-use PDF format; printable pages for workshop use
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine service, repair, and overhaul procedures
Engine Control System:
Diagnosis and repair of engine management and control systems
Fuel System:
Fuel delivery, injection, and carburetion service and specifications
Emission Control:
Diagnosis and repair of emission control systems
Intake Exhaust Cooling:
Service for intake manifold, exhaust system, and cooling system
Lubrication System:
Oil system service, lubrication specifications, and procedures
Ignition Starting Charging:
Service and troubleshooting for ignition, starting, and charging systems
Automatic Transmission Clutch:
Complete service, repair, and diagnosis for automatic transmissions and associated clutches
Manual Transmission:
Service and repair for manual transmissions
Drivetrain Components:
Service for transfer case, propeller shaft, drive shaft, differential, and axles
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering column, and power steering system service
Brake System:
Service, repair, and diagnosis for all brake components, including parking brake
Wheel Tire Assembly:
Tire and wheel service, specifications, and related components
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system service, diagnosis, and repair
Restraint Systems:
Supplemental restraint system (airbags) and seat belt service
Security Systems:
Engine immobilizer service
Comfort Convenience:
Cruise control, wiper/washer, door locks, seat systems, and related controls
Interior Components:
Instrument panel, meter, audio/visual systems, horn, interior trim, and seats
Exterior Components:
Engine hood, doors, glass, mirrors, and exterior trim service
Electrical System:
Comprehensive electrical diagnostics, wiring schematics, and component repair
Multiplex Can Communication:
Information on multiplex communication systems (early forms of data bus)
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation
Repair Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component repair and full system overhauls
Installation:
Procedures for component replacement and accessory installation
Wiring Schematics:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems
Depth Of Coverage:
Factory-level detail, equivalent to dealer technician manuals; complete repair and diagnosis
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP22)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed manual (less common, especially in North America)
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Likely Dexron III or equivalent (refer to manual for exact spec)
Manual Transmission Gearing:
5-speed close-ratio for sportier feel
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette stereo, often with premium sound options
Display:
Analog gauges, basic warning lights, and potentially a trip computer
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional electronic cruise control
Parking Assistance:
None (rear parking sensors were not available)
Connectivity Features:
Basic antenna for radio, no modern connectivity options like Bluetooth or USB
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to manual for precise interval)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended around 30,000-50,000 miles (or as per manual)
Spark Plugs Replacement:
10,000-20,000 miles for older plug types, up to 30,000 miles for platinum
Timing Belt Chain:
M30 engines use a timing chain, requiring no regular replacement but periodic inspection
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, viscosity 10W-40 or 15W-50 often recommended (refer to manual)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant hoses and expansion tanks can become brittle and crack
Fuel System:
Fuel pump and injector seals can degrade over time, leading to leaks or poor performance
Electrical System:
Wiring harness degradation, especially in engine bay, can cause intermittent faults; door lock actuators can fail
Suspension:
Rubber bushings and ball joints can wear out, leading to steering wander and noise
Interior Electronics:
Climate control unit issues, intermittent power to various accessories are common