🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

850CSi

Model Years Covered:

1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996

Chassis Code:

E31

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Flagship Grand Tourer, positioned as a luxury performance coupe offering cutting-edge technology and refined driving dynamics.

Competitors:

Porsche 928, Ferrari 456 GT, Aston Martin Virage, Jaguar XJ-S

Design Philosophy:

Aerodynamic styling, luxurious interior, powerful V12 engine, advanced engineering.

Manual Purpose:

To provide comprehensive technical guidance for the repair and maintenance of the BMW 850CSi.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Workshop Service and Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Component Repair, Electrical Systems, Bodywork

Total Pages:

981

Type:

Workshop Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

V12 Engine Overhaul, Cylinder Head Service, Piston and Connecting Rod Assembly, Crankshaft Service, Timing System, Lubrication System

Engine Management:

DME (Digital Motor Electronics) System, Fuel Injection, Ignition System, Emission Control Systems, Sensor and Actuator Diagnosis

Transmission:

Automatic Transmission (e.g., 4HP24) Service, Manual Transmission (e.g., Getrag 6-speed) Service, Clutch System, Drive Shafts, Differential

Suspension:

Front and Rear Suspension Systems, Shock Absorbers, Springs, Bushings, Steering System, Wheel Alignment

Brakes:

Brake System Components (Discs, Calipers, Pads), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Brake Fluid Service, Parking Brake

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Lighting System, Fuses and Relays, Power Windows, Central Locking, Interior and Exterior Electronics

Bodywork:

Body Panel Removal and Installation, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass Replacement, Convertible Top (if applicable to specific variants)

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System Service, Refrigerant, Compressor, Evaporator, Condenser

Interior:

Seat Removal, Dashboard Components, Trim Panels, Audio System, Instrument Cluster

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Coolant Flush, Belt Inspection and Replacement, Brake Pad Replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Charts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Electrical Fault Finding, Engine Performance Issues

Repair Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation

Diagnostic Procedures:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) interpretation (for later models within the range), BMW-specific diagnostic codes, sensor testing

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical measurements

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on recommended diagnostic tools and equipment

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High resolution, searchable text, bookmark support

Printable:

Yes, pages are designed to be printable

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M70B50

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V12

Displacement:

5.0 Liters (4988 cc)

Horsepower:

300 hp @ 5200 rpm (US Spec)

Torque:

332 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm (US Spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic M-1.2 (later models may have M-1.3 or similar) Fuel Injection

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

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (4HP24)

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Manual (Getrag 290)

Automatic Features:

Electronic control, Lock-up torque converter

Manual Features:

Close-ratio gearing, dual-mass flywheel

📐 Dimensions

Length:

191.1 inches (4854 mm)

Width:

73.2 inches (1859 mm)

Height:

51.4 inches (1306 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.5 inches (2730 mm)

Curb Weight Automatic:

4,233 lbs (1920 kg)

Curb Weight Manual:

4,167 lbs (1890 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Specific NHTSA ratings for this era are not readily available in a comparable format to modern standards. Focus was on structural integrity.

Active Safety:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Traction Control System (ASC+T on some later models)

Passive Safety:

Driver and Passenger Airbags, Crumple Zones, Reinforced Safety Cage, Three-point Seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW Bavaria C Business or Professional radio/cassette system, optional CD player. Early models may have analog systems.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise Control, Park Distance Control (PDC) on later models, Electronic Stability Control (ASC+T on later models)

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; primarily focused on vehicle systems. Early mobile phone integration may be present on some later vehicles.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Refer to manual; typically 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually. BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) may apply on later models within the range.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual; typically every 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum).

Engine Oil:

Refer to manual for specific viscosity; typically synthetic 5W-30 or 5W-40 meeting BMW LL-01 or equivalent.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Refer to manual; often Dexron III or Mercon equivalent for 4HP24. BMW recommends specific ATF.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Refer to manual; typically GL-4 or GL-5 manual transmission fluid.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 compliant fluid.

Common Issues:

Vanous wear (e.g., serpentine belts, tensioners), Cooling system components (radiator, hoses), ABS module failure, Fuel pump issues, Window regulator mechanisms, Idle control valve issues, EML (Electronic throttle control) issues on some variants, VANOS seals on later M73 engines (though M70 is less prone to widespread VANOS failure than later M73).

Precautionary Maintenance:

Regular fluid changes, inspection of rubber components, and proactive replacement of aging cooling system parts are highly recommended.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW's reputation for performance, engineering excellence, and luxurious grand touring vehicles.

E31 Development:

Developed as a halo car to showcase BMW's engineering prowess. Featured a sophisticated V12 engine and advanced technology for its time.

Production Years:

1989-1999

Csi Introduction:

The 850CSi variant, with its increased displacement and performance, was introduced later in the E31's lifecycle, often considered the pinnacle of the range.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism:

While not a recipient of specific awards in the modern sense, the 8 Series was widely praised for its design, performance, and technological innovation upon release.

Design Awards:

Recipient of numerous design accolades for its avant-garde and aerodynamic styling.