Positioning:
Flagship luxury sedan of BMW during its production run, representing the pinnacle of German engineering and automotive luxury
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Jaguar XJ, Lexus LS, Cadillac DeVille, Audi V8 Quattro
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on driver engagement, advanced technology for its era, and refined luxury
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides detailed, accurate, and specific repair and maintenance information identical to what BMW dealerships use, enabling enthusiasts and DIY mechanics to maintain and repair their E32 7 Series with confidence.
Coverage Scope:
All models and all repairs A-Z
Information Type:
Vehicle-specific, dealer-technician level
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (specific count not provided, but implied to be comprehensive for A-Z coverage)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Language:
English (implied by standard for technical manuals)
Format:
Likely printed book format, or digital equivalent (PDF) mirroring dealer documentation
Powertrain:
Engine, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic and manual if applicable), drivetrain, differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS if equipped)
Electrical:
Vehicle electrical system, charging system, ignition system, lighting, instrument cluster, comfort electronics, diagnosis of electronic control units (ECUs)
Body:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, climate control system (HVAC), safety systems (airbags if equipped)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation (OBD-I), common problems and their resolutions
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system overhauls, electrical component replacement
Technical Data:
Specifications, torque values, wiring diagrams, schematics, diagnostic procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex diagnostics
Digital Format:
PDF (most common for modern sales, though original was likely printed)
Original Print Quality:
High (dealer-grade publication)
Original Binding:
Perfect bound or spiral bound (typical for workshop manuals)
Original Paper Type:
Durable, high-quality paper stock to withstand workshop use
Engine Options:
Likely covers both the M30B30 (3.0L) and M30B35 (3.5L) inline-six engines, and potentially the M60B40 (4.0L) V8 for later 1991 models or specific markets.
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 188 hp (3.0L) to 211 hp (3.5L), and 282 hp (4.0L V8)
Torque Range:
Approx. 245 Nm (3.0L) to 305 Nm (3.5L), and 400 Nm (4.0L V8)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI) with EPROM-controlled engine management
Common Engine Codes:
M30B30, M30B35, M60B40
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual transmission (Getrag 260/5) was an option on some models, particularly the 730i/iS
Transmission Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission was the most common option
Automatic Features:
Electronic control, Sport mode (on some versions) providing a sportier shift pattern
Wheelbase E32:
2,830 mm (111.4 in) for standard wheelbase, 3,000 mm (118.1 in) for long wheelbase (iL models)
Length E32:
4,960 mm (195.3 in) for standard, 5,120 mm (201.6 in) for long wheelbase
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1,700 kg to 1,900 kg depending on engine and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and configuration, detailed in manual
Crash Test Era:
Pre-modern crash testing standards, but designed with advanced safety features for its time.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard on most models by 1991
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag became standard equipment in 1991
Seatbelts:
Height-adjustable front seatbelts, three-point rear seatbelts
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Audio System:
High-fidelity sound systems, often with Nakamichi or Bavaria branded units; optional CD player
Climate Control:
Dual-zone automatic climate control (IHKA) was a significant feature
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors (BMW Park Distance Control) were introduced on later E32 models
Onboard Computer:
Check Control system for monitoring vehicle status and malfunctions, with early forms of trip computer functionality.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months, as per BMW recommendations for synthetic oil
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plugs, coolant, brake fluid typically every 30,000-60,000 km or as specified by the manual.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-30, or 10W-40 depending on ambient temperature (detailed spec in manual)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Long-Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent (ZF TE-ML 14A specification)
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses), heater control valve failure, ABS sensor failures, front suspension wear (bushings, ball joints), O2 sensor failures, fuel pump issues, window regulator failures.
Electrical Gremlins:
Can suffer from aging wiring and module issues, especially in comfort electronics. Check Control system can be sensitive.
Oil Filter Example:
Mann-Filter W930/21 or Mahle OX 146 (check manual for exact fitment)
Heritage:
BMW's reputation for engineering excellence, performance, and luxury stretching back decades.
E32 Introduction:
Introduced in 1986 as the successor to the E23, the E32 was a radical departure in design and technology.
E32 Key Innovations:
Introduced integrated climate control, early on-board computer (check control), and advanced aerodynamics.
E32 Design Influence:
Designed by Claus Luthe, it featured a sleeker, more aerodynamic profile than its predecessor, with a focus on wind tunnel optimization.
Production Years:
1986-1994
Production Location:
Dingolfing Plant, Germany
E32 Facelift:
A mild facelift occurred around 1989/1990, with minor styling tweaks and expanded V8 availability.
Automotive Journalism Awards:
While specific awards for the 1991 model year aren't as widely publicized as modern vehicles, the E32 was generally highly regarded by automotive press for its luxury, technology, and driving dynamics.
Expert Reviews:
Praised for its refined ride quality, powerful engines, and comfortable interior, often cited as a benchmark in the luxury sedan segment of its era.
