🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

7 Series

Chassis Code:

E32

Model Year:

1990

👋 Introduction

Segment Positioning:

The BMW 7 Series E32 represented the pinnacle of German luxury and engineering in the late 1980s and early 1990s, competing with other flagship sedans from Mercedes-Benz (W140 S-Class) and Audi (V8 Quattro).

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W140 S-Class, Lexus LS400, Jaguar XJ, Cadillac Fleetwood

Luxury Appointments:

The E32 was renowned for its advanced technology, superior ride comfort, refined interior materials, and powerful inline-six and V12 engine options.

Target Audience:

Affluent individuals seeking a sophisticated, comfortable, and technologically advanced luxury sedan.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All Service and Repair

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typical service manuals for this era are 800+ pages)

Type:

Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service Repair:

Detailed instructions for all engine variants including disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, and repair.

Transmission Service Repair:

Covers both automatic and manual transmissions, including diagnostics, fluid changes, and component repair.

Brake System:

Comprehensive coverage of hydraulic and braking systems, including ABS diagnostics and repair.

Electrical System:

Detailed breakdown of the vehicle's electrical architecture.

Wiring Diagrams:

Includes complete electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.

Suspension Steering:

Repair and maintenance procedures for front and rear suspension and power steering systems.

Cooling System:

Detailed diagnostics and repair of the cooling system, including thermostat, water pump, and radiator.

Fuel System Injection:

Information on fuel delivery, fuel injection systems (e.g., Bosch Motronic), and related components.

Emission System:

Details on emission control components and troubleshooting.

Engine Control System:

Diagnosis and repair of the engine control unit (ECU) and associated sensors.

Chassis Body:

Information related to the vehicle's chassis structure and body panel repairs.

Restraint System:

Information on airbags and seatbelt systems.

Axle Drive Shafts:

Service and repair of drivetrain components including axles and drive shafts.

General Maintenance:

Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and scheduled servicing.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues.

Periodic Lubrication:

Specific lubrication points and recommended lubricant types and schedules.

Disassembly Reassembly:

Step-by-step instructions for taking apart and putting back together major vehicle components.

Repair Renovation:

Guidance on fixing worn or damaged parts and restoring functionality.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to in-depth component overhaul and diagnostics, suitable for both amateur and professional mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for potentially archived files)

Operating Systems:

Compatible with all Windows and Mac OS versions.

Digital Quality:

High-resolution digital format suitable for screen viewing and potential printing of individual pages.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

The E32 generation was offered with several engine variants, notably the M30 inline-six (3.0L and 3.5L) and the M70 V12 (5.0L).

735I Engine Power:

Approx. 208-211 hp (155-157 kW) at 5,700 rpm (depending on market and specific tune)

735I Engine Torque:

Approx. 243-250 lb-ft (329-339 Nm) at 4,000 rpm

750Il Engine Power:

Approx. 295 hp (220 kW) at 5,200 rpm

750Il Engine Torque:

Approx. 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) at 4,100 rpm

Injection System:

Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection and engine management system.

Cooling Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with engine-driven fan (or electric fan on later models).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

Predominantly offered with a 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP22). Some markets may have offered a 5-speed manual transmission on specific models.

Manual Transmission Availability:

Rare, typically only on the 735i in certain markets, but the automatic was far more common.

Automatic Transmission Features:

Sport mode, typically rear-wheel drive (RWD).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Standard:

Approx. 116.4 inches (2957 mm)

Wheelbase Long:

Approx. 120.9 inches (3071 mm) for iL (long wheelbase) models

Curb Weight 735I:

Approx. 3,800 - 4,000 lbs (1724 - 1814 kg)

Curb Weight 750Il:

Approx. 4,400 - 4,600 lbs (1996 - 2087 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards Era:

While formal crash test ratings like modern standards were less prevalent, BMW designed the E32 with a robust safety cage and crumple zones.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) across most models.

Traction Control:

Optional Automatic Stability Control (ASC) available on some models, particularly later V12 versions.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag was standard. Passenger-side airbag was an option, becoming more common in later production years.

Seatbelts:

Force-limiting front seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Premium sound systems were available, often with cassette players and early forms of radio data systems (RDS). Some models featured an optional CD changer.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control (dual-zone on some models) was a key feature.

Early Telematics:

Some later models may have featured early cellular phone integration or rudimentary communication systems, but these were not widespread.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil quality. Check the manual for specific recommendations.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Intervals vary by plug type (e.g., platinum could be 60,000-100,000 miles), but standard plugs would be around 30,000 miles. Refer to manual for exact type and interval.

Coolant Flush:

Typically every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW recommends synthetic oils. For 1990 models, typically API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 depending on climate. Consult manual for precise BMW Longlife specification.

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

Likely Dexron II or equivalent for the ZF 4HP22 automatic transmission. Always verify with the manual.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (typically green) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Cooling System Leaks:

Common issues include cracked coolant expansion tanks, failing water pumps, and aged radiator hoses. E32s are also prone to head gasket issues if overheated.

Electrical Gremlins:

Age-related issues can affect wiring harnesses (especially the EFI harness), sensors, and the ABS system. The self-leveling suspension (SLS) on some models can develop leaks.

V12 Engine Specifics:

The M70 V12 engine has dual ECUs and individual throttle bodies, which can require complex servicing. Ignition coil failures and oil leaks are not uncommon.

Interior Wear:

Natural aging of leather, wood trim, and headliner can occur. Climate control system components can also fail.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused luxury vehicles with superior engineering and performance.

E32 Introduction:

The E32 was introduced in 1986 as the successor to the E23 7 Series, marking a significant advancement in technology and design for BMW's flagship sedan.

E32 Facelift:

A significant facelift occurred around 1987-1988, introducing updated styling cues and more features.

Production Years:

1986-1994

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (primarily Dingolfing Plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism Awards:

While specific 'awards' for the 1990 model year are hard to pinpoint without dedicated archives, the E32 consistently received praise from automotive publications of its time for its blend of luxury, performance, and technology, often being ranked highly in its segment.

Road Test Reviews:

Contemporary reviews frequently lauded the V12 engine's smoothness and power, the chassis's balance, and the overall refinement.