Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Positioning:
BMW's flagship sedan, competing with Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Lexus LS during its production era.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W126/W140 S-Class, Lexus LS 400, Jaguar XJ.
Defining Characteristics:
Advanced technology for its time, refined driving dynamics, superior build quality, powerful inline-six and V12 engines, luxurious interior appointments.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides authoritative, factory-level information essential for maintaining and repairing these complex luxury vehicles, often saving significant costs compared to dealership service.
Model Years Covered:
1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994
Specific Models Covered:
735i, 735iL, 740i, 740iL, 750iL
Manual Type:
Factory Service Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital Download (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine diagnostics, repair, overhaul (M30, M60, M70 engines), fuel injection systems (DME), ignition systems, cooling systems, exhaust systems.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP22, 5HP30) diagnostics, repair, overhaul, fluid specifications, and control systems.
Chassis:
Suspension (front strut, rear multi-link), steering (power steering, steering column), brakes (ABS, vented discs), wheel and tire specifications, wheel bolt pattern.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting systems, fuse box locations, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electronic control units (ECUs) for various systems.
Body:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass, seals, interior trim, climate control system (HVAC), heating, ventilation, air conditioning (A/C).
Comfort And Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belt systems, central locking, power windows, sunroof, cruise control, onboard computer (check control), parking assist sensors.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), lubrication points, component inspection intervals.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and suspension component replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common problems and solutions, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for engine performance, electrical issues, and HVAC faults.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for fasteners, engine data (bore, stroke, compression ratio), fluid capacities, component tolerances, electrical resistance values.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete unit overhauls, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Crash Test Performance:
Not extensively tested by modern standards, but built with a robust chassis and safety cage.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) across all models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags became standard later in the E32's lifecycle.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts, with pretensioners for front occupants.
Body Structure:
High-strength steel safety cage, crumple zones.
Audio System:
Premium Hi-Fi systems often featured Nakamichi or Blaupunkt components, with optional CD changers.
Navigation:
Early GPS navigation systems were available as an option, often integrated into the dashboard display.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, often electronically controlled.
Parking Aid:
Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control precursors) were introduced.
Onboard Computer:
Check Control system provided alerts for various vehicle functions and potential issues.
Headlights:
Halogen headlights, with optional Xenon HID lighting becoming available later in the E32's production, representing a significant advancement.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Major Service:
Includes spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid and filter change (often around 60,000 - 100,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, viscosity typically 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-40 depending on climate (refer to manual for exact spec).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (for 4HP22/24), ATF LT 71141 (for 5HP30, if applicable).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Cooling System:
Water pump leaks, radiator failure, hose degradation.
Electrical System:
Vanos (variable camshaft timing) on M60 V8 can be problematic, ABS sensor failures, headlight leveling issues, door lock actuator failures.
Engine:
Head gasket issues (less common on M60/M70 than earlier BMWs), oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets, timing chain guides on M60 (can be preventative maintenance).
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, strut mount degradation.
Comfort Features:
HVAC blower motor resistor failures, climate control unit issues, power seat module failures.
Oil Filter 735I:
Mann-Filter HU 850/1, Mahle OC 47
Air Filter 740I:
Mann-Filter C 35132
