🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

8 Series

Generation:

E31

Chassis Code:

E31

Engine Codes Covered:

M60B30, M60B40, M62B35, M62B44, S70B56

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Flagship luxury coupe/convertible of its era, representing BMW's pinnacle of engineering and design.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R129), Porsche 928, Jaguar XJS.

Design:

Shark-nose styling, frameless windows, concealed headlamps, distinctive kidney grille, long hood, short deck.

Engineering:

Advanced V8 and V12 engines, sophisticated chassis, luxury appointments, driver-focused cockpit.

Manual Benefit:

Essential for owners and independent workshops seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair this complex luxury vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All 8 Series (E31) models

Regions Covered:

Global (specifications applicable across major markets)

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (exact number not provided, but described as comprehensive A-Z)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (printable pages)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete overhaul, diagnosis, tuning, cooling, lubrication, fuel injection (DME), ignition

Transmission:

Automatic (ZF 4HP22, ZF 5HP18, ZF 5HP30) and Manual (Getrag 280/5) service, overhaul, diagnosis, fluid service

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, differential, axles, clutch (manual transmission)

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, self-leveling rear suspension (if equipped)

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, steering gear, diagnosis and repair

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, bleeding procedures

Electrical System:

Comprehensive coverage including battery, charging system, starter, lighting, power windows, mirrors, seats, central locking, EWS (Electronic Immobilizer), dashboard instruments, diagnostic connectors (OBD I)

Body And Chassis:

Frame, body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, convertible top (if applicable), interior trim, corrosion prevention

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnosis, component replacement, refrigerant service

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, emissions control systems (ASC, secondary air)

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converters, mufflers, exhaust pipes, O2 sensors

Wheels And Tires:

Specifications, mounting, balancing, torque values

Lighting:

Headlights (including pop-up mechanism), taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, wiring diagrams for all lighting circuits.

Comfort Systems:

Power seats, heated seats, memory seats, power mirrors, cruise control, central locking, alarm system.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspection schedules

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, wiring diagrams for fault tracing

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major systems

Overhaul:

Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including torque specifications and clearances

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Detailed wiring diagrams, component location charts, testing procedures for electrical faults

Bodywork:

Panel alignment, dent repair, rust treatment, glass replacement, convertible top repair

Body Repair Procedures:

Panel replacement, door hinge adjustment, bumper repair/replacement, glass sealant procedures, convertible top mechanism adjustments and repair.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using BMW's proprietary diagnostic tools of the era (e.g., GT1, although often referred to with older terminology in period manuals).

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics

Diagnostics Capability:

Includes procedures for using older OBD I diagnostic tools and interpreting error codes

Diagrams Illustrations:

Numerous detailed pictures and diagrams are explicitly mentioned, crucial for visual learners and complex procedures

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF or similar, enabling easy searching and printing

Searchability:

Digital format usually implies full text search capability, allowing users to quickly find specific topics or components.

Printability:

All pages are printable, allowing for convenient use in a workshop environment

Binding:

Not specified for digital format, but implies a bound, cohesive document when printed

Paper Quality:

Not applicable for digital, but implies high-quality content suitable for printing on durable paper

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variants:

840Ci (3.0L and 3.5L V8), 850Ci (5.0L V12), 850CSi (5.6L V12).

840Ci Engine Power:

218 hp (M60B30), 296 hp (M60B40/M62B40)

850I Engine Power:

300 hp (M70B50), 326 hp (M73B54 - later models)

850Csi Engine Power:

375 hp (S70B56)

Injection System:

Bosch Motronic Engine Management (various versions: M1.3, M1.7, DME7.1, DME M5.2)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (Octane rating dependent on market and specific engine)

Block Material:

Aluminum (for M60/M62 V8 and M70/S70 V12)

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Automatic (ZF 4HP22, ZF 5HP18, ZF 5HP30) depending on model and year

Optional Transmission:

5-speed manual (Getrag 280/5) available on select 840Ci and 850i models, particularly early European versions.

Transmission Features:

Sport mode, manual shift gate (Steptronic on later models).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:

BMW LT-2, ZF LifeguardFluid 5 (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon for earlier models).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,780 - 4,810 mm (188.2 - 189.4 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,855 mm (73.0 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,370 mm (53.9 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,630 mm (103.5 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,700 - 1,950 kg (3,750 - 4,300 lbs) depending on engine and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

While official crash test data from modern agencies for this era may be limited, BMW vehicles of this period were engineered with robust safety structures.

Active Safety:

ABS, Traction Control (ASC/ASC+T), optional DSC on later models.

Passive Safety:

Front airbags, reinforced passenger cell, side-impact protection beams, seatbelt pre-tensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Early generation BMW Professional Radio, cassette player, optional CD changer, analog climate control display, optional navigation system (on later models, very basic by modern standards).

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, limited slip differential (on some models), ABS, ASC/ASC+T.

Connectivity Features:

Minimal by modern standards, primarily focused on car-to-driver communication through dashboard indicators and basic audio integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil quality. Refer to the manual for specific conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by engine type (e.g., V8s and V12s have multiple spark plugs, often with longer intervals). Consult manual for specific recommendations (e.g., ~30,000 - 60,000 miles for platinum plugs).

Transmission Fluid Service:

Recommended every 30,000 - 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, often involving fluid and filter replacement.

Engine Oil Spec:

BMW Longlife-98 (or equivalent high-quality synthetic, e.g., Castrol Edge 5W-30, 5W-40, 0W-40 depending on temperature and engine variant). Check manual for exact grade.

Coolant Spec:

BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48) or equivalent Ethylene Glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4

Common Issues Engine:

V8 engine oil pan gasket leaks, coolant leaks (especially plastic components), VANOS system issues (on M60/M62 engines), ignition coil failures, timing chain guides (on early M60).

Common Issues Transmission:

Automatic transmission harsh shifting or failure to engage, hydraulic leaks, torque converter issues.

Common Issues Electrical:

Window regulator failures, door lock actuators, ABS/DSC sensor failures, EWS immobilizer faults, pixelated instrument cluster displays, heater control valve failures.

Common Issues Suspension:

Front control arm bushings, rear self-leveling suspension issues (if equipped), damper leaks.

Parts Availability Note:

Some specialized parts can be rare and expensive due to the vehicle's age and niche status, making a comprehensive manual even more valuable for troubleshooting and identifying alternatives.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for performance, luxury, and engineering excellence, particularly with its coupes and grand tourers.

E31 Development:

Conceived as BMW's ultimate grand tourer, replacing the 6 Series (E24) with a focus on advanced technology, aerodynamic design, and luxurious comfort.

Production Years:

1989 - 1999

Manufacturing Plant:

Dingolfing, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Awards:

The E31 8 Series' design, penned by Klaus Kapitza, is widely regarded as a design classic and a benchmark for automotive styling of the era.

Performance Ratings:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its powerful engines, refined ride, and comfortable yet sporty handling.

Certification:

Not applicable in the modern sense of third-party certifications, but represents BMW's internal quality and engineering standards of the late 80s and 90s.