🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

750iL

Year:

1990

Chassis Code:

E32

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size Luxury Sedan

Target Audience:

Discerning buyers seeking refinement, performance, and advanced technology, often with a focus on long-distance cruising.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), Lexus LS 400, Jaguar XJ Series, Cadillac DeVille/Brougham.

Engine Config:

BMW's first production V12 engine (M70), renowned for its smoothness and power.

Chassis Design:

Long-wheelbase 'L' variant (750iL) offering exceptional rear-seat legroom and comfort.

Technology Adoption:

Introduction of early electronic driver aids and comfort features, setting benchmarks for luxury vehicles.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, often described as 'printable' or 'searchable')

Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive BMW workshop manuals of this era)

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans suitable for printing with clear diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format, but if printed, typically coil-bound or perfect-bound for usability)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format, but original manuals used high-quality, durable paper)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete overhaul and repair procedures for the M70 V12 engine, including cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft inspection, valve train components, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection (DME system), ignition system, and emission controls.

Transmission:

Detailed service and repair for the automatic transmission (likely ZF 4HP-33 or similar), including fluid changes, filter replacement, hydraulic system diagnosis, torque converter, valve body overhaul, and electronic control unit (ECU) diagnostics.

Brakes:

Full coverage of the braking system, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair, brake fluid service, caliper and master cylinder overhaul, brake rotor and pad replacement, and parking brake system.

Suspension Steering:

Comprehensive procedures for front and rear suspension components, including shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, bushings, ball joints, power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack, and wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical:

Extensive electrical schematics, wiring diagrams for all systems (engine management, lighting, HVAC, power accessories, comfort features), diagnosis of electrical faults, troubleshooting of relays, fuses, sensors, actuators, and power distribution.

Body Interior:

Repair and adjustment of body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, interior trim components, seats, headliner, and glass replacement procedures.

Climate Control:

Diagnosis and repair of the automatic climate control system (HVAC), including refrigerant service (R12 or R134a conversion notes might be present), compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, and control head.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, and fuel tank service procedures.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks such as oil and filter changes, coolant flushes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, belt inspections and replacement, and brake inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems, often including flowcharts and symptom-based repair guidance.

Repair Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and reinstallation, covering major mechanical and electrical assemblies.

Diagnostics:

Procedures for diagnosing faults using onboard diagnostic systems (OBD-I), including scan tool operation (if applicable for the era) and interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, electrical component resistance values, engine timing specifications, and dimensional tolerances.

Engine Rebuild:

Complete engine rebuild procedures, including cylinder honing, piston ring installation, bearing clearances, and valve seat grinding.

Transmission Overhaul:

In-depth transmission overhaul procedures, detailing the disassembly and reassembly of complex automatic transmission components and hydraulic circuits.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Advanced electrical diagnostic techniques, including the use of multimeters, oscilloscopes, and logic probes for troubleshooting complex electronic systems.

Body Repair:

Procedures for structural repairs, panel replacement, and corrosion protection, catering to both DIY and professional body shop needs.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M70

Configuration:

V12

Displacement:

4988 cc (5.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 75.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Valve Train:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) per bank, 2 valves per cylinder (Total 24 valves)

Horsepower:

300 PS (296 bhp; 221 kW) @ 5200 rpm

Torque:

470 Nm (347 lb-ft) @ 3900 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic M1.2 DME)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (Octane rating typically 91 or higher)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol based) or equivalent

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Manufacturer:

ZF

Model:

4HP-33

Control:

Electronic control with multiple shift modes (e.g., Economy, Sport).

Fluid Type:

ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 (or Dexron II/III compatible, consult manual for exact specification)

Capacity:

Approx. 9 Liters (total fill, including torque converter)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

5124 mm (201.7 in)

Width:

1864 mm (73.4 in)

Height:

1404 mm (55.3 in)

Wheelbase:

3070 mm (120.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1900 kg (4189 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 2400 kg (5291 lbs)

Standard:

225/60 R15

Bolt Pattern:

5x120

Center Bore:

72.5 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Results:

No specific NHTSA ratings readily available for this model year; however, BMWs of this era were engineered with advanced safety features for their time.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag (standard on most models), passenger airbag often optional or introduced later in the E32 lifecycle.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones, side-impact protection beams.

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts for all occupants, pre-tensioners likely standard.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard, crucial for stability during hard braking.

Traction Control:

ASC (Automatic Stability Control) often optional or standard on higher trims like the 750iL, enhancing traction.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Integrated BMW cassette radio/CD player with amplifier system, often featuring premium sound by manufacturers like Nakamichi or Harman Kardon.

Display:

Basic LCD displays for climate control and radio functions; OBC (On-Board Computer) with basic trip functions.

Cruise Control:

Electronic cruise control standard.

Parking Assistance:

Front and rear park distance control (PDC) introduced as an option during the E32's lifecycle, though less common on early 1990 models.

Seating:

Multi-way power adjustable front seats with memory, heated front and rear seats often available.

Climate Control:

Dual-zone automatic climate control with auxiliary ventilation controls for rear passengers.

Phone Integration:

Early cellular phone integration options were available for the era.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for exact BMW recommendations for the period).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum or standard).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-98 or equivalent API SG/SH, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check manual for precise viscosity and API rating for 1990).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 Liters (with filter change)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW PSF (Power Steering Fluid) or Dexron III ATF (check manual)

Engine M70:

Throttle body issues (due to complex linkage), coolant leaks from expansion tank and hoses, DME relay failures, valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, ignition coil issues (shared across cylinders can cause misfires).

Electrical System:

Headlight leveling system faults, ABS sensor failures, door lock actuators, power seat module failures, wiring harness degradation over time (especially in engine bay).

Suspension:

Worn control arm bushings, strut mount failure, sagging rear springs.

Cooling System:

Complete cooling system overhaul is often recommended due to age, including radiator, water pump, hoses, and thermostat.

Brake System:

Regular replacement of brake pads and rotors, fluid flushes, and ABS component checks.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's commitment to 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' balancing luxury with performance and engineering prowess.

E32 Generation:

The E32 generation (1986-1994) represented a significant technological leap for BMW's flagship sedan, introducing advanced electronics, more powerful engines, and enhanced safety features.

V12 Introduction:

The 750i/iL marked BMW's return to V12 engine production, a symbol of ultimate luxury and engineering achievement in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Manufacturing Plant:

Dingolfing, Germany

E32 Production Range:

1986-1994

750Il Specific Production:

Introduced in 1987, continuing through 1994.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

While the 750iL itself may not have been specifically on Car and Driver's 10 Best list, the E32 generation was consistently praised for its engineering and refinement, contributing to BMW's reputation.

Critical Reception:

Widely lauded by automotive journalists for its V12 smoothness, technological advancements, and luxurious interior, solidifying its position as a top-tier luxury sedan.