Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
Luxury car buyers seeking performance, comfort, and advanced technology for their era
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), Lexus LS400, Jaguar XJ
Vehicle Attributes:
Renowned BMW driving dynamics, luxurious interior, powerful inline-six engine, advanced features for the period
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and independent technicians with the knowledge to maintain and repair this sophisticated vehicle
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, internal components, timing systems, cooling, lubrication, emissions controls
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system (DME), fuel injection system, sensors, actuators, wiring diagrams, ECU diagnostics
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shift mechanism, internal components, fluid specifications
Transmission Automatic:
Transmission overhaul, hydraulic systems, torque converter, electronic control unit (EGS), shift solenoids, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, constant velocity (CV) joints, differential, rear axle assembly
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, hydraulic components
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Complete vehicle wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, battery, alternator, starter, fuses, relays
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, structural components, doors, hood, trunk, glass replacement, interior trim removal
Climate Control:
HVAC system, refrigerant charging, blower motor, air conditioning compressor, heater core, diagnostic procedures
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank, evaporative emissions control (EVAP)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (DME, EGS), component testing methods
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment
Overhaul Procedures:
Complete disassembly and reassembly of major mechanical components (engine, transmission)
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of BMW-specific tools required for certain repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive - Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics for electronic control units (ECUs) and sensor systems
Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, and fluid capacities
Engine Type:
3.5L (3430cc) Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 or 8.5:1 (depending on market/year)
Horsepower:
Approximately 208-211 hp @ 5700 rpm (SAE net)
Torque:
Approximately 224-230 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (SAE net)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (MFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)
Engine Control Unit:
DME (Digital Motor Electronics)
Crash Test Data:
Limited public data for this era, but known for robust chassis construction
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard
Traction Control:
Optional ASC (Automatic Stability Control) on later models
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag introduced later in production (optional/standard depending on year)
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Audio System:
Premium sound systems available, often with cassette player and early CD integration options
Navigation:
Optional early generation navigation systems (e.g., MK I, MK II)
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors (on some later models)
Phone Integration:
Optional early cellular phone integration kits
Memory Seats:
Power adjustable front seats with memory function
Sunroof:
Power glass sunroof
Heated Seats:
Optional heated front and rear seats
Oil Change Interval:
Approximately 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or as per manual recommendation
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) depending on plug type
Engine Oil:
SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (API SG/SH or higher, ACEA A2/A3) - Consult manual for exact viscosity and spec
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron III or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF1)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Wear Items:
Suspension bushings (control arms, sway bars), fuel pump, ignition coil packs (on later M50 engines in some markets), radiator, water pump, vacuum leaks
Electrical Gremlins:
Can be prone to electrical issues due to age and complexity; corroded grounds, failing relays, dashboard warning lights
Climate Control Issues:
Dual-zone climate control system can be complex to diagnose and repair
