Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops specializing in European vehicles.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), Lexus LS 400, Jaguar XJ
Vehicle Highlights:
Renowned for smooth ride, refined engineering, advanced (for its era) technology, and luxurious interior.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides the detailed technical information necessary to maintain and repair the sophisticated E32 chassis, saving on dealership service costs.
Covered Years:
1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994
Covered Models:
735i, 735iL
Estimated Page Count:
1000+
Manual Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (M30B35), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering System, Drivetrain (Rear Wheel Drive), Brakes (Front/Rear)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Climate Control Electronics, Engine Management Electronics
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, HVAC System
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Changes, Tune-ups
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Fault Code Interpretation, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Component Testing
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Replacement
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque Specifications, Clearance Measurements, Component Dimensions
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, DOHC
Displacement:
3.430 cc (3.4 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Horsepower:
208 hp @ 5700 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
290 Nm (214 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based depending on specific model year/market
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Optional Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 265/5 - rare on 735i)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 9.0 Liters (dry fill), 4.5 Liters (refill)
Wheelbase 735I:
2830 mm (111.4 in)
Wheelbase 735Il:
3070 mm (120.9 in)
Length 735I:
4970 mm (195.7 in)
Length 735Il:
5125 mm (201.8 in)
Curb Weight 735I:
1720 kg (3792 lbs) (approx.)
Curb Weight 735Il:
1770 kg (3902 lbs) (approx.)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
2300 kg (approx.)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120
Wheel Size:
15x7.0J (standard), 16" optional
Tire Size:
205/65 R15 (standard), 225/60 R15 optional
Safety Ratings Era:
Vehicle safety standards varied significantly during this period. Specific crash test ratings from modern agencies are not directly comparable.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard, Power-Assisted Steering
Passive Safety Features:
Reinforced passenger cell, Crumple zones, Driver and passenger airbags (later models), Seatbelt pre-tensioners
Infotainment Features:
Premium sound system (e.g., Nakamichi), Cassette player, Optional CD player (later models), Analog climate controls.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise Control, Optional Traction Control System (ASC/ASC+T in later models).
Connectivity Options:
None (era-appropriate), focusing on in-car comfort and functionality.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 50,000 km
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 50,000-100,000 km depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 5W-40 (synthetic recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Coolant Type:
BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol based with corrosion inhibitors.
Common Problems Engine:
Head gasket leaks, Oil pan gasket leaks, Idle control valve issues, Cooling system hose degradation.
Common Problems Electrical:
Gauge cluster failures, Door lock actuator failures, Climate control module issues, Wiring harness degradation (especially in engine bay).
Common Problems Chassis:
Front suspension component wear (ball joints, control arm bushings), Rear differential leaks, Power steering pump leaks.
Bmw Heritage:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused luxury vehicles with advanced engineering and performance.
E32 Introduction:
The E32 generation replaced the E23 and was introduced in 1986, featuring a significant redesign and technological advancements.
E32 Updates:
Facelifted in 1994 with minor styling changes and updated electronics.
Production Period:
1986-1994
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
Vehicle Awards:
While not typically focused on individual awards, the E32 was widely recognized for its engineering prowess and luxury appointments, setting benchmarks for its segment.
Automotive Press Reviews:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and advanced features for its time.
