🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

735i / 735iL

Generation:

E32

Model Years Covered:

1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994

Chassis Code:

E32

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Full-size Luxury Sedan

Target Audience:

Affluent consumers seeking refined driving experience, advanced engineering, and high build quality.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), Lexus LS 400, Jaguar XJ, Audi V8 Quattro.

Defining Characteristics:

Renowned BMW driving dynamics, sophisticated styling, potent inline-six engine, advanced optional features for its time (e.g., electronic suspension control, early navigation systems).

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners and independent mechanics with the knowledge to maintain and repair these complex luxury vehicles, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Complete service and repair for BMW 735i and 735iL models

Estimated Page Count:

High (Typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of the M30B35 engine, including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing system.

Engine Management:

Diagnosis and repair of Motronic electronic engine control unit (ECU), fuel injection (EFI), ignition system, sensors (crankshaft position, camshaft position, throttle position, lambda, coolant temp, air mass meter), actuators (injectors, ignition coils).

Transmission Manual:

Service, repair, and overhaul of the Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission, including clutch system, shift mechanism, and gearbox internals.

Transmission Automatic:

Service, repair, and overhaul of the ZF 4HP22 or 4HP24 4-speed automatic transmission, including torque converter, valve body, hydraulic control, and electronic control module.

Drivetrain:

Diagnosis and repair of rear-wheel drive system, including driveshaft, universal joints, differential, and axle shafts.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems (MacPherson struts front, independent trailing arm rear), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bars, and power steering system.

Brakes:

Service and repair of front and rear disc brakes (vented front), hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components, brake lines, calipers, master cylinder, and parking brake.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive coverage of 12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter motor, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), horn, and power accessories.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, sunroof operation, interior trim removal and installation, chassis lubrication, and underbody protection.

Climate Control:

Air conditioning (A/C) system diagnosis and repair, heater core, blower motor, climate control modules, refrigerant handling, and ventilation systems.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel pressure regulator, and EVAP (Evaporative Emission Control) system.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, expansion tank, and cooling fan operation.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and oxygen sensors (lambda sensors).

Preventative Maintenance:

Detailed schedules and procedures for oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, and inspections.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Systematic diagnostic procedures and fault code interpretation (where applicable) for common and uncommon issues.

Repair Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation of all major vehicle systems.

Component Replacement:

Guidance on replacing wear items such as brake pads, rotors, belts, hoses, batteries, and bulbs.

Alignment And Balancing:

Specifications and procedures for wheel alignment and tire balancing.

Torque Specifications:

Critical torque values for engine, transmission, suspension, brake, and chassis fasteners.

Electrical Schematics:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, lighting, engine management, ABS, and accessories.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized BMW tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electronic diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (likely searchable and printable)

Digital Quality:

High-resolution scans or digital creation, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Physical Binding:

N/A (for digital format)

Physical Paper Type:

N/A (for digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M30B35

Engine Type:

SOHC Inline 6-Cylinder

Displacement:

3.5 Liters (3430 cc)

Horsepower:

Approx. 208-211 hp @ 5700 rpm (varies slightly by market/year)

Torque:

Approx. 224-228 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (varies slightly by market/year)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 86.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1 or 8.5:1 (depending on specific model year/market)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Getrag 260 5-Speed Manual

Optional Transmission:

ZF 4HP22 or 4HP24 4-Speed Automatic

Automatic Transmission Features:

Sport mode, lockout torque converter.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase 735I:

2830 mm (111.4 in)

Wheelbase 735Il:

3070 mm (120.9 in)

Length 735I:

4960 mm (195.3 in)

Length 735Il:

5200 mm (204.7 in)

Curb Weight Approx:

1700-1850 kg (3750-4080 lbs), depending on configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Not extensively tested by modern standards; early ABS and robust chassis structure provided good passive safety for its era.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on later models or optional.

Passive Safety Features:

Reinforced passenger cell, driver's side airbag (optional early, standard later), front and rear crumple zones, padded interior.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Original cassette or CD players, optional premium sound systems (e.g., Bavaria C, Hi-Fi Professional), analog climate control displays.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, optional onboard computer (check control system), ABS.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; primarily analog communication systems if equipped (e.g., early car phones).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (consult manual for exact recommendation).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic: Every 30,000-60,000 miles (check manual), Manual: Inspect, change if necessary/leaking.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 (consult manual for precise viscosity)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF Dexron III or equivalent

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-4 or GL-5 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based), 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Engine M30 Common Problems:

Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), coolant leaks (water pump, hose connections), oil separator issues, ignition coil failure, O2 sensor failure.

Transmission Common Problems:

Automatic transmission harsh shifting or failure to engage (valve body issues, solenoid failure), manual clutch wear.

Electrical Common Problems:

Corroded grounds, failing relays, HVAC control module issues, central locking problems, window regulator failures.

Suspension Common Problems:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers leading to poor ride and handling.

Cooling System Common Problems:

Plastic coolant expansion tanks becoming brittle and cracking, thermostat sticking.

Rust:

Corrosion can affect wheel arches, rocker panels, and door bottoms, particularly in humid climates.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Ultimate Driving Machine, focus on performance, engineering, and driver engagement.

E32 Development:

Successor to the E23 7 Series, introduced a more aerodynamic and modern design, significantly improved chassis and technology.

Production Period:

1986-1994

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Acclaim:

The E32 generation was widely praised for its blend of performance, comfort, and luxury, cementing BMW's position in the premium sedan market.