Target Audience:
BMW owners with basic mechanical skills and independent auto service professionals
Value Proposition:
Provides dealer-level information for informed ownership and cost-effective repairs
Advantage Over Other Manuals:
Instant download, PDF format for device compatibility, printable pages to prevent damage
Accessibility:
Instant download on receipt of payment, no shipping costs or waiting
User Benefit Informed Decisions:
Empowers owners to understand and discuss repairs knowledgeably with technicians
Engine Service:
Engine service and overhauling, including M30B35 and M60B40 engines
Transmission Service:
Transmission, differentials, and clutch service
Chassis Suspension Steering:
Chassis, steering, and suspension systems, including E32 specific designs
Brake System:
Brake system diagnostics, repair, and ABS system procedures
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, electrical component troubleshooting, and control systems
Fuel Emission Induction:
Fuel system, emission control, and induction system maintenance and repair
Bodywork Interior:
Body repair, interior components, and trim specifications
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures for common and advanced faults
Rebuild Procedures:
Engine and transmission overhauling and rebuild procedures
Maintenance Tasks:
Routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, and component replacements
Wiring Diagram Tracing:
Detailed tracing and verification of wiring diagrams with specific terminal pin connections and expected readings
Testing Suspected Parts:
Techniques for testing suspect parts, including specific diagnostic methods for BMW
Depth Of Coverage:
In-depth technical details equivalent to authorized dealer service departments
Torque Settings:
Comprehensive specifications and torque settings for all major components
Engine Management:
Understanding and analyzing engine management systems for M30 and M60 engines
Engine 3.5L M30B35:
3.5 Liter SOHC Inline-6 (M30B35)
Engine 4.0L M60B40:
4.0 Liter DOHC V8 (M60B40)
M30B35 Horsepower Approx:
Approximately 208-211 hp (varies slightly by market and year)
M30B35 Torque Approx:
Approximately 225-232 lb-ft (varies slightly by market and year)
M60B40 Horsepower Approx:
Approximately 282-296 hp (varies by market and year)
M60B40 Torque Approx:
Approximately 295-302 lb-ft (varies by market and year)
Fuel Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual (less common on later models, particularly 740i)
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22 for M30, ZF 5HP30 for M60)
Transmission Control:
Hydraulically controlled automatic transmission with electronic control unit (on M60)
NHTSA Ratings Era:
Safety ratings from this era were less standardized; focus on passive safety features inherent to BMW design.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag became standard during the E32's production run
Body Construction:
Reinforced passenger cell and energy-absorbing crumple zones
Audio System:
Optional premium sound systems, often with cassette players and early CD changers.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with dual-zone capability.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Park Distance Control:
Optional early versions of park assist sensors.
Cellular Phone:
Optional integrated early car phone systems.
Oil Change Interval Typical:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for precise intervals.
Coolant Change Interval Typical:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Always use BMW-approved coolant.
Engine Oil Spec M30:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact viscosity based on climate).
Engine Oil Spec M60:
API SG/SH, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 is often recommended for the M60 V8.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Specific ATF (e.g., Dexron III for ZF 4HP22, specific BMW P/N for ZF 5HP30 - consult manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically green or blue.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; water pump seals can fail.
M60 Engine Chain Tensioners:
Hydraulic chain tensioners on M60 engines are known to fail, potentially leading to timing chain issues. Early replacement is advised.
Window Regulators:
Power window regulators can fail over time.
Headliner Sagging:
Headliner fabric can sag due to aged adhesive.
ABS Module:
ABS control modules can be a point of failure, leading to ABS warning lights.
Bmw Luxury Sedan Legacy:
Continued BMW's tradition of building high-quality, driver-focused luxury sedans.
E32 Introduction:
Introduced in 1986 (as a 1987 model in some markets), replacing the E23 7 Series.
E32 Facelift:
Received a significant update (facelift) for the 1992 model year, including the introduction of the V8 engine (M60).
Production Years:
1986-1994
Key Markets:
North America, Europe, Asia
European Car Of The Year Nominee:
While not a winner, the E32 competed in an era where BMWs were consistently recognized for engineering and driving dynamics.
Import Car Of The Year Nominations:
Often featured in 'Import Car of the Year' lists from automotive publications of its time.
Iso Certification Era:
BMW consistently adhered to stringent quality control and ISO standards during this production period.
