Market Segment:
Luxury Sedan
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), Lexus LS400, Jaguar XJ, Audi V8 Quattro.
Vehicle Strengths:
Advanced engineering, comfortable ride, powerful engines, refined interior, technological innovation for its era.
Target Audience:
BMW owners (DIY enthusiasts), independent repair shops, automotive technicians.
Cost Savings:
Enables significant savings on routine maintenance and repairs compared to dealership labor costs.
Engine Mechanical:
Full coverage including disassembly, assembly, overhaul, timing, lubrication, cooling.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine management, sensor diagnostics.
Emission Control:
Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), catalytic converter systems, evaporative emission control (EVAP).
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank.
Clutch System:
Clutch actuation, clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing (for manual transmission models).
Manual Transaxle:
Gearbox overhaul, shifting mechanisms, lubrication, troubleshooting.
Automatic Transaxle:
Transmission identification (e.g., ZF), control systems, fluid types, overhaul procedures, diagnostics.
Driveshaft And Axles:
Driveshaft U-joints, CV joints, differential overhaul, axle shaft replacement.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering System:
Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, steering column, alignment.
Restraint System:
Seat belts, airbags (if equipped), SRS system diagnostics and service.
Brake System:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake fluid specifications.
Body Interior Exterior:
Panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass, seals, bodywork repair.
Body Electrical:
Lighting, power windows, central locking, mirrors, seat adjustment, instrument cluster, warning lights.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system components, refrigerant, blower motor, climate control module.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacement, tune-ups.
Repair:
Component removal, installation, and overhaul for all covered systems.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving faults.
Diagnostics:
Electrical system diagnostics, engine management diagnostics.
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete engine/transmission rebuilds.
Engine Codes And Variants:
Likely covers M30B30 (3.0L), M30B35 (3.5L), and M60B40 (4.0L V8) engine variants common in the 1991 E32 model range.
Horsepower Torque Range:
Varies by engine: 3.0L (approx. 188 hp), 3.5L (approx. 208 hp), 4.0L V8 (approx. 282 hp). Torque figures also vary.
Fuel Injection System:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection.
Bore Stroke:
Specific to each engine variant (e.g., M30B35: 92 mm bore x 86 mm stroke).
Compression Ratio:
Typically around 9.0:1 to 10.0:1 depending on engine.
Standard Transmission:
While automatics were prevalent, some models may have offered a Getrag 5-speed manual transmission.
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP22) was common.
Automatic Transmission Features:
Sport mode, Comfort mode depending on specific transmission and year.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Likely ATF Dexron II or equivalent, check specific vehicle for exact specification.
Wheelbase:
Standard wheelbase: 2,830 mm (111.4 in), Long wheelbase (iL models): 3,010 mm (118.5 in).
Length:
Standard wheelbase: 4,950 mm (194.9 in), Long wheelbase: 5,130 mm (202.0 in).
Curb Weight:
Varies by engine and equipment, typically ranging from 1,700 kg to 1,900 kg (3,748 lbs to 4,189 lbs).
Wheelbase Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
Standard Tire Sizes:
Commonly 205/65R15, 225/60R15 depending on model and options.
Audio System:
Premium sound systems often available (e.g., Nakamichi or Harman Kardon), with cassette player and radio. CD changer may have been an option.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC) were introduced as an option during the E32's lifecycle, though may not be standard on all 1991 models.
Climate Control Features:
Automatic climate control with dual-zone temperature settings, pollen filter.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles) or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Check manual for specific recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000 - 50,000 km (18,000 - 30,000 miles), depending on spark plug type (e.g., standard vs. platinum).
Engine Oil Specification:
Varies by engine: e.g., BMW High Performance SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil. Consult manual for exact API/ACEA specifications.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), head gasket issues (particularly with early M60 V8), ABS sensor failures, VANOS issues (on later M60 variants), window regulator failures, wiring harness degradation (especially in the engine bay).
