Target Audience:
Professional Automotive Technicians, BMW Enthusiasts, DIY Mechanics with electronic diagnostic experience
Value Proposition:
Essential resource for diagnosing complex electronic and electrical issues on the E32 7 Series
Uniqueness:
Specialized focus on electronic troubleshooting, complementing general repair manuals
Diagnostic Focus:
Emphasizes systematic fault finding, wiring diagrams, and component testing
Electronic Systems Depth:
In-depth coverage of early electronic control units and sensors prevalent in the late 1980s/early 1990s
Coverage Scope:
Electronic Troubleshooting and Diagnosis
Estimated Page Count:
Approx. 500-700 (typical for this type of specialized manual)
Manual Type:
Electronic Troubleshooting Manual / Diagnostic Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF or similar electronic format)
Engine Management:
DME (Digital Motor Electronics), ignition systems, fuel injection, emission controls, idle control
Transmission Control:
Electronic transmission control unit (e.g., for automatic transmissions), shift solenoids, hydraulic control
Chassis Electronics:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASC (Automatic Stability Control), EDC (Electronic Damper Control)
Body Electronics:
Central locking, power windows, mirrors, seats, climate control, lighting, instrument cluster, warning lights
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic connectors (e.g., OBD-I style), troubleshooting flowcharts, component testing procedures
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all major systems
Troubleshooting Methodology:
Systematic diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting, component testing
Diagnostic Tool Usage:
Guidance on using BMW-specific diagnostic tools or generic scan tools for fault code retrieval and live data analysis
Sensor Testing:
Procedures for testing various sensors (e.g., MAF, O2, crank/cam position, ABS sensors)
Actuator Testing:
Procedures for testing electronic actuators (e.g., fuel injectors, ignition coils, idle control valve, solenoids)
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced diagnostics, electronic system fault finding, component-level troubleshooting
Repair Information:
Focus on identifying faults and guiding repairs through diagnostic steps, less on physical repair procedures themselves
Primary Engine 735I 735Il
Engine Designation:
M30B35
Engine Type:
3.5L Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC
Bore X Stroke:
92 mm x 86 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 or 9.0:1 (depending on market/year)
Horsepower Est:
208 hp @ 5700 rpm (approx.)
Torque Est:
225 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Engine Designation:
M70B50
Engine Type:
5.0L V12, SOHC
Bore X Stroke:
84 mm x 90 mm
Horsepower Est:
296 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)
Torque Est:
332 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Injection:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (e.g., Motronic 1.2 for M30, Motronic 1.7 for M70)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP-22)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 265 - rare)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP-24)
Automatic Transmission Control:
Electronic control for shift points and modes
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon spec fluids)
NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:
Not readily available for this era of vehicles, focus on design features
ABS:
Standard (Bosch ABS III)
Asc:
Optional on 735i/iL, Standard on 750iL (Automatic Stability Control)
Edc:
Optional (Electronic Damper Control) for adaptive suspension
Airbags:
Driver's airbag standard from 1990 onwards, passenger airbag optional
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts, pre-tensioners for front belts
Body Construction:
High-strength steel chassis and safety cage
Audio System:
BMW Professional Radio/Cassette with optional CD changer and premium sound systems (e.g., Bavaria C Professional RDS).
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with dual-zone temperature settings.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking aid (Park Distance Control).
Onboard Computer:
Check Control system providing status and warnings for various vehicle functions.
Diagnostic Interface:
OBD-I diagnostic port for accessing fault codes and live data.
Service Intervals General
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 15,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Engine Oil Filter Interval:
Replace with every oil change.
Spark Plug Replacement M30:
Typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs.
Spark Plug Replacement M70:
12 spark plugs, typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil Specification M30:
SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (API SG or higher), check owner's manual for exact BMW approval.
Engine Oil Specification M70:
SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (API SG or higher), check owner's manual for exact BMW approval.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48/Glycol-based) mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Cylinder Head Gasket:
Can be prone to failure, especially with age and high mileage, leading to coolant leaks or overheating.
Cooling System Components:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks, hoses, and water pumps can become brittle and leak.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion and degradation of electrical connectors can cause intermittent faults.
ABS Asc Sensors:
Wheel speed sensors can fail, triggering ABS/ASC warning lights and disabling the systems.
Ehm Module:
Electronic Height Control (EHC) system on some models can develop faults, leading to ride height issues.
Idle Control Valve:
Can become clogged or fail, leading to rough idle or stalling.
O2 Sensors:
Degradation can lead to poor fuel economy and increased emissions.
Bmw Heritage:
BMW, known for performance, luxury, and engineering excellence since 1916.
E32 Introduction:
The E32 replaced the E23 7 Series and introduced a more aerodynamic and sophisticated design. It was a significant step forward in luxury and technology for BMW.
E32 Key Innovations:
Introduced the first BMW V12 engine in the 750iL, advanced electronic systems, and a longer wheelbase option (iL).
Production Years E32:
1986-1994
Production Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
Automotive Press Reviews:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its luxurious ride, advanced technology, and powerful engines, particularly the V12.
Performance Awards:
The 750iL was often highlighted as one of the finest luxury sedans of its era, setting benchmarks for refinement and V12 performance.
