🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

7 Series

Model Code:

E23

Year:

1987

Product Name:

1987 BMW 7 Series (E23) Service and Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Full-size Luxury Sedan

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Jaguar XJ, Cadillac Sedan de Ville, Lincoln Continental

Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive, dealership-level repair and maintenance information for owners and independent mechanics, enabling self-sufficiency and cost savings.

Target Audience:

BMW E23 7 Series owners, DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, classic car enthusiasts.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Page Count Estimate:

High (typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive factory manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

Digital Format Advantage:

Eliminates need for physical storage, prevents damage from grease/dirt, allows for easy sharing of specific pages.

Searchable:

Yes (implied by PDF format)

Printable:

Yes

Zoomable:

Yes

Delivery Speed:

Speed Download

Operating Systems:

Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (free online)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete service, diagnosis, and repair of all engine variants, including mechanical, control systems, fuel, emission control, intake/exhaust, and lubrication.

Transmission:

Detailed procedures for both automatic and manual transmissions, including clutch service, overhaul, and fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Coverage of transfer case, propeller shaft, drive shafts, differential, and axles, including maintenance and repair.

Suspension Steering:

Comprehensive details on suspension components, alignment, tire and wheel service, steering column, and power steering systems.

Brakes:

In-depth coverage of brake systems, including control systems, parking brake, hydraulic components, and bleeding procedures.

Electrical Electronics:

Extensive coverage of the entire electrical system, including ignition, starting, charging, wiring schematics, multiplex/CAN communication, instrument panel, meters, and audio/visual systems.

Body Interior:

Detailed information on body components, exterior/interior trim, doors, locks, seats, engine hood, windshield, glass, mirrors, and HVAC systems.

Safety Restraint:

Coverage of supplementary restraint systems (SRS) and seat belt mechanisms.

Comfort Convenience:

Information on cruise control, air conditioning, wipers, washers, and horn systems.

Engine Management:

Detailed coverage of engine control unit (ECU) functions, sensor inputs, and actuator outputs for Bosch Motronic systems.

Maintenance:

Complete step-by-step instructions for routine maintenance tasks.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for identifying and troubleshooting common and complex issues.

Repair:

Comprehensive, specific repair instructions for virtually all components and systems.

Overhaul:

Instructions for complete component overhauls, such as engine rebuilds or transmission overhauls.

Installation:

Guidance on the installation of various parts and components.

Technical Detail:

Factory-level detail, equivalent to what dealership technicians use.

Visual Aids:

Includes diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics.

Diagnostic Tools:

While not detailing specific OBD-I tools of the era, the manual provides the necessary diagnostic charts and procedures to interpret vehicle behavior and faults.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality Description:

High resolution, suitable for clear printing of text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF - User prints as needed)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF - User chooses paper type)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

M30 Inline-6 (Various displacements, e.g., 3.2L, 3.4L, 3.5L)

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 180-210 hp (depending on engine variant and market)

Torque Range:

Approximately 200-230 lb-ft (depending on engine variant and market)

Fuel Injection Type:

Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection

Configuration:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed or 5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

ZF 4HP22 Automatic Transmission

Transmission Control:

Hydraulic and electronic control for automatic transmissions.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 114.2 inches (2901 mm)

Length:

Approximately 198.9 inches (5052 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,600 - 3,900 lbs (1633 - 1769 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Features Overview:

While official crash ratings from modern bodies are not readily available for this era, the E23 featured robust construction and safety enhancements for its time.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on most models

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard from 1987 onwards.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts front and rear.

Chassis Construction:

Unitized body-chassis construction with crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, often with premium sound options.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional electronically controlled cruise control.

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control (IHKA - Integrated Automatic Climate Control) available on higher trims.

Onboard Computer:

Check Control system for monitoring vehicle status and fault indicators.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to specific engine and oil type)

Tune Up Interval:

Spark plugs and ignition system inspection/replacement every 30,000-60,000 miles

Timing Belt Chain:

M30 engines use a timing chain, which requires inspection for stretch and tensioner condition, but not periodic replacement like a belt.

Engine Oil Type:

Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., SAE 10W-40, 15W-50) and API service classification (e.g., SE, SF).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (typically 50/50).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron-II or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification and capacity).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (refer to manual for viscosity and specification).

Common Wear Items:

Fuel injectors, fuel pump, ignition components, cooling system hoses, suspension bushings, climate control system components (e.g., blower motor, vacuum lines).

Electrical Gremlins:

Typical for vehicles of this era; wiring harness degradation and connector corrosion can cause intermittent issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' and engineering excellence.

E23 Generation:

First generation of the BMW 7 Series, introduced in 1977, with significant updates leading up to the 1987 model year.

Production Years:

1977-1986 (1987 model year vehicles fall within this range, particularly late production models or early 1987 registrations)

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

While specific awards for the 1987 model might be difficult to pinpoint, the E23 was widely recognized for its engineering, comfort, and performance, solidifying BMW's position in the luxury market.