🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

850Ci

Year:

1996

Model Code:

E31

Engine Code:

M73B54

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW 8 Series (E31) was BMW's flagship luxury grand tourer, representing the pinnacle of German engineering and automotive design in the 1990s. The 850Ci specifically offered a powerful V12 engine and a refined driving experience.

Competitors:

Competed with other high-end luxury coupes and grand tourers of the era, such as the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, Jaguar XJS, and potentially the Porsche 928.

Distinguishing Features:

Iconic 'shark nose' design, pop-up headlights, powerful V12 engine, sophisticated suspension, luxurious interior, advanced (for its time) technology.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete service, repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting for the 1996 BMW 850Ci.

Page Count:

Extensive (specific digital page count not provided but expected to be comprehensive).

Type:

Official Service & Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Language Details:

Professionally translated and localized for English-speaking markets, ensuring clarity of technical terms.

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary viewer).

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

V12 engine, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection (DME, Bosch Motronic 5.2), ignition system, emission control systems, engine sensors, diagnostic codes (OBD-I compatible).

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (4-speed electronically controlled), hydraulic system, torque converter, shift solenoids, valve body.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive system, driveshaft, differential, axles.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake discs, calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, steering system.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting system, horn, power windows, mirrors, seats.

Body And Chassis:

Chassis construction, body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, interior trim, convertible top (if applicable to specific model variant covered).

Climate Control:

HVAC system, climate control unit, refrigerant system, blower motor, air conditioning compressor.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures.

Instrumentation:

Instrument cluster operation, warning lights, gauge functions.

Security System:

Alarm system, central locking, immobilizer.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement.

Repair Procedures:

Engine component overhaul, transmission service and repair, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon issues, fault symptom analysis.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque specifications, engine clearances, diagnostic parameter ranges, alignment specifications.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using BMW's proprietary diagnostic tools and procedures relevant to the era (e.g., hand-held scanners for OBD-I).

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF or specialized executable for optimal viewing and searchability of technical data.

Print Ability:

High-resolution images and text suitable for printing specific sections or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Software)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Software)

Manual Completeness:

Full factory service and repair manual content, providing a complete resource for maintenance and repair.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V12

Displacement:

5.4 Liters (5379 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

85.0 mm x 96.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.3:1

Valve Train:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) with 2 valves per cylinder (24 valves total).

Horsepower:

322 hp @ 5000 rpm

Torque:

361 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic 5.2 Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

Engine Placement:

Front, longitudinal

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic (4HP24)

Optional Transmission:

None offered for the 1996 850Ci model in most markets (some early models had manual options, but not typically the 1996 850Ci).

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled with Sport and Comfort modes.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

191.8 inches (4872 mm)

Width:

71.7 inches (1821 mm)

Height:

51.3 inches (1303 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.9 inches (2741 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4350 lbs (1973 kg)

Seating Capacity:

4 (2+2 configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

No specific NHTSA or IIHS ratings available for this model year as testing protocols were different and less standardized.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (ASC+T).

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and passenger front airbags, reinforced safety cell, side-impact protection.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Early integrated audio system with cassette player and AM/FM radio. Optional CD changer. Basic digital climate control interface.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, ABS, Traction Control (ASC+T).

Connectivity Options:

Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on integrated vehicle systems. Some models may have provisions for aftermarket phone integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil quality. Check Condition Based Service (CBS) indicators if equipped and functional.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 50,000-60,000 miles for the automatic transmission fluid and filter.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or as recommended by the manual.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic engine oil meeting BMW Longlife-98 specification (check manual for exact spec).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 7.9 US quarts (7.5 Liters) with filter change.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III or equivalent (specific BMW part number required, consult manual).

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 High-Performance brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Power Steering Fluid or Pentosin CHF 11S (check manual for exact specification).

Common Problems:

Electrical issues (wiring harness degradation, sensor failures), cooling system leaks (plastic components), VANOS system (if equipped on earlier models/variants, though M73 may differ), transmission control unit, catalytic converter failure, interior component wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

BMW, established in 1916, is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan, emphasizing performance, luxury, and engineering excellence across its vehicle lineup.

E31 Generation:

The E31 8 Series was produced from 1989 to 1999 as BMW's flagship coupe. It replaced the E24 6 Series and was intended to be a high-tech, luxurious GT.

Production Years:

1989-1999 (850Ci specifically updated for 1994 with M73 engine).

Production Volume:

Total E31 production was around 30,600 units. The V12 models (850i, 850Ci, 850CSi) accounted for the majority of these.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Awards:

While not always specific 'awards', the E31 8 Series was widely praised for its groundbreaking design and engineering at the time of its release, influencing subsequent BMW models.

Performance Ratings:

Consistently rated highly for its smooth power delivery, comfortable ride, and sophisticated handling for a large GT car.