🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

750iL

Year:

1993

Chassis Code:

E38

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Flagship luxury sedan representing BMW's pinnacle of engineering and comfort in the early 1990s

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W140), Lexus LS 400 (XF10), Jaguar XJ (XJ40)

Defining Features:

Smooth V12 power, long-wheelbase for enhanced rear-seat comfort, advanced (for its time) technology and luxury appointments

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete Factory Service Repair Manual

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds (specific count not provided, but typical for this era is 1000+ pages)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Download PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (M70 V12), transmission (automatic), drivetrain components

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (including ABS), wheels and tires

Electrical:

Complete vehicle electrical system, wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, charging system, starter, battery, ECUs, diagnostics

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, climate control system, body hardware

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacement, lubrication

Repair:

Component removal and installation, adjustments, overhauls, system troubleshooting and repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic codes (if applicable to the era/system), step-by-step diagnostic procedures

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level diagnostic and repair information for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, allowing for clear printing of diagrams and text

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M70

Configuration:

V12

Displacement:

4.988 liters (5.0L)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 75.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Horsepower:

296 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque:

332 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic M3.3 engine management system, Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MFI)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded (91+ octane)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP24)

Transmission Type:

N/A (V12 models exclusively used automatic)

Gear Selection Modes:

Standard, Sport (S), and Manual (M) modes

Fluid Type:

BMW ATF Dexron II (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

118.4 inches (3007 mm)

Length:

199.5 inches (5067 mm)

Width:

73.1 inches (1857 mm)

Height:

57.5 inches (1460 mm)

Curb Weight:

4,398 lbs (1995 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

5,392 lbs (2446 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this era; designed to high European standards.

ABS:

Standard Bosch ABS III

Traction Control:

Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction)

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag standard; Passenger airbag optional/later addition depending on market

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats

💡 Technology Features

Navigation:

Optional BMW On-Board Computer with navigation (early generation GPS/map system)

Audio:

Premium sound system options available (e.g., Harman Kardon)

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control)

Features:

Limited by era; features focused on internal vehicle systems and comfort rather than external connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specifications).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual; typically 30,000-60,000 miles for V12 engines.

Transmission Fluid Service:

Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Common Problems M70:

Spark plug fouling, ignition coil failure, ABS sensor issues, SLS (Self-Leveling Suspension) pump and hose leaks, coolant leaks (especially from valley pan and heater core), VANOS unit issues (though less prevalent on early M70), and potential oil leaks from seals and gaskets.

Common Problems E38:

Climate control system malfunctions (e.g., pixelated displays, blower motor issues), window regulator failures, central locking issues, corrosion on subframes and suspension components.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW's legacy as a builder of performance luxury sedans dating back to the Neue Klasse and subsequent generations of the 7 Series.

Predecessor:

E32 BMW 750iL

Successor:

E65 BMW 750i

Production Years:

1994-2001 (for the E38 generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

The E38 7 Series was generally well-received by critics for its refined ride, powerful engines, and advanced features, often winning comparisons against its rivals.

Customer Satisfaction:

Generally high for luxury, comfort, and performance, though maintenance costs could be a factor.