🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

8 Series (E31)

Model Variants:

840Ci, 850i, 850Ci, 850CSi

Production Years:

1989-1996

Chassis Code:

E31

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Luxury Grand Tourer

Target Audience:

Owners and independent repair shops specializing in BMW vehicles of this era.

Competitors:

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

Design Philosophy:

BMW's focus on advanced engineering, performance, and luxury for a flagship coupe.

Manual Advantage:

Provides comprehensive, factory-level repair and maintenance information essential for preserving these complex vehicles.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Overhaul Rebuild:

Yes

Brakes:

Yes

Sunroof:

Yes

Timing Belt Replacement:

Yes

Trouble Codes:

Yes

Wiring Diagrams:

Yes

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Yes

Computer Diagnostic Tree Charts:

Yes

Engine Performance:

Yes

Front End Alignment:

Yes

Suspension:

Yes

Transmission Removal Installation:

Yes

Air Conditioning Service Capacities:

Yes

Transmission In Car Servicing:

Yes

Computer Diagnostic Codes:

Yes

Firing Orders:

Yes

Detailed Specifications All Models:

Yes

Factory Maintenance Schedules Charts:

Yes

Serpentine Belt Routings Diagrams:

Yes

Timing Belt Service Procedures:

Yes

Brake Servicing Procedures:

Yes

Driving Concerns:

Yes

Complete Torque Specifications:

Yes

U Joint Cv Joint Service:

Yes

Repair Procedures:

Yes

Hundreds Of Illustrations:

Yes

Vacuum Diagrams:

Yes

Page Count:

Not Specified (Comprehensive Coverage Implied)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Digital Format Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows, Mac, iOS, BB, Android

Viewing Requirements:

PDF Reader

Printability:

Yes (Printable Pages)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

V12 (M70, M73), V8 (M60) engine overhaul, rebuilding, performance tuning, timing belt/chain service, serpentine belt routing, firing orders, troubleshooting.

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission removal, installation, and in-car servicing. Comprehensive coverage for models equipped with the 5-speed automatic (e.g., 5HP30).

Brake Systems:

Detailed brake servicing procedures, including hydraulic system repairs, component replacement, bleeding procedures, and specifications.

Suspension Steering:

Front end alignment procedures and specifications, suspension component repair and replacement, shock absorber and spring servicing.

Electrical Systems:

Complete wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, troubleshooting electrical faults, diagnostic trouble tree charts, and computer diagnostic codes.

Climate Control:

Air conditioning service, including refrigerant capacities, system checks, and repair procedures.

Body Chassis:

Sunroof repair and service, U-joint and CV-joint service procedures, general bodywork repair guidance.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Extensive coverage of diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting common drivability issues, and interpreting diagnostic trouble codes.

Maintenance Scheduling:

Factory recommended maintenance schedules and charts for routine servicing and longevity.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for the removal and installation of major components like engines, transmissions, and suspension parts.

Torque Specifications:

Complete torque specifications for critical fasteners throughout the vehicle for accurate assembly.

Fluid Management:

Guidance on fluid types, capacities, and change intervals for engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and coolant.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive A-Z coverage, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.

Illustration Quality:

Detailed illustrations, exploded diagrams, drawings, and photos for clear procedural guidance.

User Accessibility:

Designed for both novice DIY mechanics and experienced technicians, with easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Delivery:

Instant Download

Print Capability:

High quality, printable pages for workshop use.

Binding:

Digital (PDF) - Printable

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

840Ci Engine:

4.0L V8 (M60B40)

850I 850Ci Engine:

5.0L V12 (M70B50)

850Csi Engine:

5.6L V12 (S70B56)

840Ci Horsepower:

~282 hp @ 5800 rpm

840Ci Torque:

~400 Nm (295 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm

850I 850Ci Horsepower:

~296 hp @ 5200 rpm

850I 850Ci Torque:

~470 Nm (347 lb-ft) @ 4100 rpm

850Csi Horsepower:

~375 hp @ 5300 rpm

850Csi Torque:

~550 Nm (406 lb-ft) @ 4100 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Bosch Motronic Engine Management System (specific version varies by engine and year)

🔧 Transmission

840Ci Transmission:

4-speed automatic (4HP-22)

850I 850Ci Transmission:

4-speed automatic (4HP-24 or 5HP-30)

850I 850Ci Manual Transmission:

6-speed manual (S6S-2300/3100) available on select early 850i models.

850Csi Transmission:

6-speed manual (S6S-2300/3100) was standard.

Transmission Control:

Electronic transmission control with various shift modes (e.g., Sport/Comfort) on later models.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

~2580 mm (101.6 in)

Length:

~4780-4980 mm (188.2-196.1 in) depending on model and year

Width:

~1850 mm (72.8 in)

Height:

~1370 mm (53.9 in)

Curb Weight Range:

~1700-1950 kg (3748-4299 lbs) depending on engine and options

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Equipment:

Standard safety features of the era, including ABS, airbags (driver and passenger on later models), crumple zones.

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), optional Traction Control System (ASC+T) on some models.

Passive Safety:

Reinforced body structure, safety-belt pretensioners, energy-absorbing interior components.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Early models featured cassette players and analog radio. Later models offered optional CD changers and rudimentary navigation systems (e.g., BMW Professional Navigation).

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS, Cruise Control. Traction control (ASC+T) was available on some models.

Connectivity Options:

Limited by modern standards; primarily basic radio/cassette controls, with optional phone integration in some later versions.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system (if equipped and functional), or annually.

Timing Belt Service:

V8 engines (M60) use a timing chain, which is designed to last the life of the engine. V12 engines (M70, M73, S70) use timing chains. The manual covers chain inspection and service where applicable.

Engine Oil Recommendation:

Owner's manual or workshop manual specification for viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-40) and API service classification. Often synthetic oil is recommended.

Transmission Fluid Recommendation:

Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) as per BMW specifications (e.g., Dexron III for earlier models, LT series fluids for later ones). Manual transmission fluid specification will be detailed.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Coolant or equivalent G48 ethylene glycol based coolant. Proper mixture with distilled water.

Common Wear Items:

Aging rubber hoses and seals (especially coolant hoses and intake boots), VANOS system (on later M60 engines), fuel pump, ignition coils, transmission control unit, ABS sensor failures.

V12 Specifics:

Complexity of the V12 engine can lead to higher maintenance costs. Issues with ignition systems, cooling, and wiring harnesses are common for high-mileage examples.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

BMW's long-standing reputation for performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.

E31 Development:

Developed as BMW's flagship coupe, showcasing cutting-edge technology and design, intended to compete with established luxury GTs.

E31 Facelift:

Minor updates throughout its production, including engine upgrades (e.g., introduction of the 4.4L V8 in the 840Ci, 5.4L V12 in the 850Ci) and cosmetic tweaks.

Production Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

Production Volume:

Relatively low production numbers, contributing to its collectible status (~30,600 units worldwide).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

While specific annual awards might not be readily available for every model year, the E31 8 Series was consistently recognized for its design, engineering, and luxury GT capabilities by automotive publications of its time.