Target Audience:
BMW 7 Series E32 owners, DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops.
Value Proposition:
Saves $50-$60 per hour on labor costs by enabling DIY servicing; provides factory-level repair knowledge.
Manual Source:
Actual Genuine Factory Service Manuals (not 3rd party).
Authenticity:
Official full factory service repair manual.
Completeness:
Covers all aspects of repair, maintenance, rebuilding, refurbishing, and restoration.
Usability:
Easy to use, no advanced computer skills required, printable on demand.
Primary Coverage:
All styles/variants of the 1988 BMW 7 Series E32
Secondary Coverage:
General maintenance, troubleshooting, engine, transmission, brakes, electrical, suspension, steering, cooling, fuel system, emissions, HVAC, chassis, body, interior, differential, axles.
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (specific count not provided, but described as 'complete' and 'hundreds of pages')
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Engine:
Engine Service/Repair (including Engine Control System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Cooling System, Emission System)
Transmission:
Transmission Service/Repair
Electrical:
Electrical System, Wiring Diagram
Suspension Steering:
Suspension, Steering
Chassis Body:
Chassis/Body
Interior Restraint:
Restraint System, Interior
Drivetrain:
Differential/Drive, Axle
HVAC:
Heater/Air Conditioning
Maintenance:
General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Troubleshooting (including advanced guide)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, lubrication, filter replacements.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all covered systems.
Diagnostics:
Fault diagnosis, troubleshooting guides, electrical system diagnostics.
Rebuilding:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, component refurbishment.
Tuning:
Engine tuning and performance adjustments (likely related to fuel and ignition systems).
Depth:
Comprehensive (from fundamental maintenance to complete rebuilds, mirroring factory technician knowledge).
Detail Level:
Highly detailed, step-by-step instructions, notes, cautions, warnings, enlarged insets for detailed parts examination.
Visual Aids:
All necessary illustrations, diagrams, and photos included.
Compatibility:
All PC-based Windows operating systems and Mac.
Printability:
Printable without any restriction (individual pages or entire manual).
Resolution:
High resolution
Binding:
Not applicable (digital download, printable)
Paper Type:
Not applicable (digital download, printable)
Search Functionality:
Enabled (allows for easy searching of information).
Delivery Method:
Instant download link upon payment completion.
Software Required:
Adobe PDF Reader
Engine Options 1988:
735i: 3.5L M30B35 inline-six; 750iL: 5.0L M70B50 V12
Engine Type:
Inline-6 and V12 (depending on model variant)
735I Horsepower:
~208 hp (DIN) / 211 hp (SAE)
735I Torque:
~220 lb-ft (DIN) / 221 lb-ft (SAE)
750Il Horsepower:
~295 hp (DIN) / 300 hp (SAE)
750Il Torque:
~330 lb-ft (DIN) / 332 lb-ft (SAE)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection (specific version varies by engine)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Transmission Type 735I:
4-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP22)
Transmission Type 750Il:
4-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP24)
Manual Availability:
Manual transmissions were rarely offered or available in limited markets for the E32, primarily automatic for luxury models.
Electronic Control:
Automatic transmissions likely feature electronic control for gear selection and shift points.
Wheelbase Standard Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,830 mm (111.4 in)
Wheelbase Long Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,945 mm (115.9 in) (for iL models)
Length Standard Wheelbase:
Approx. 4,960 mm (195.3 in)
Length Long Wheelbase:
Approx. 5,095 mm (200.6 in) (for iL models)
Curb Weight 735I:
Approx. 1,700 kg (3,748 lbs)
Curb Weight 750Il:
Approx. 1,950 kg (4,299 lbs)
Crash Testing Era:
Vehicle from an era where standardized crash testing was less prevalent or publicly disclosed than modern standards.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models.
Traction Control:
Optional or standard on higher-end models (e.g., ASC+T).
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag typically standard from 1987 onwards.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts, possibly with pre-tensioners.
Crumple Zones:
Designed with energy-absorbing crumple zones.
Onboard Computer:
On-Board Computer (OBC) with functions like trip computer, fuel economy, and diagnostics codes.
Audio System:
High-fidelity stereo system, often with cassette player and radio, potentially with premium sound options.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear parking sensors (BMW Park Distance Control precursors).
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily focused on vehicle systems rather than external connectivity. May include provisions for car phone installation.
Oil Change Interval:
Approximately every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plug replacement, coolant flush, transmission fluid change typically around 30,000 - 60,000 miles.
Engine Oil 735I M30:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 synthetic recommended (check manual for exact specs).
Engine Oil 750Il M70:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 synthetic recommended (check manual for exact specs).
Coolant:
BMW coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Zf4Hp22 24:
Dexron III (or equivalent ATF spec) for older ZF automatics (refer to manual for exact specification).
Common E32 Issues:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), ABS sensor failures, OBC (On-Board Computer) pixelation/malfunction, door seal degradation, headliner sagging, vacuum line deterioration, differential output seal leaks, front suspension bushing wear.
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, focusing on performance, luxury, and engineering.
E32 Introduction:
The E32 replaced the E23 7 Series and was a significant step forward in technology and luxury.
E32 Key Innovations:
Introduced V12 engine for the 750iL, advanced electronic systems, and improved chassis dynamics.
Production Years:
1986-1994
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
General Reputation:
The E32 7 Series was widely praised for its advanced technology, sophisticated engineering, and luxurious comfort, setting benchmarks for the executive sedan segment.
Specific Awards:
While specific awards for the 1988 model year are not detailed in the product info, it contributed to BMW's consistent recognition as a leading luxury and performance brand.