🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

740iL

Model Code:

E38

Year:

2000

Chassis Code:

E38

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size Luxury Sedan

Positioning:

Flagship luxury vehicle emphasizing comfort, performance, and advanced technology for its era.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W220), Audi A8 (D2), Lexus LS 400, Jaguar XJ

Features Of Vehicle:

Long wheelbase ('L' designation) for increased rear passenger space, powerful V8 engine, sophisticated chassis dynamics, advanced electronics for its time, premium interior materials, and extensive comfort features.

Value Proposition:

Provides expert-level repair and maintenance guidance for a complex and high-value luxury vehicle, enabling owners or technicians to perform accurate and efficient service.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

2000 BMW 740iL (E38)

Engine Coverage:

4.4L V8 (M62TU)

Transmission Coverage:

5-Speed Automatic (Steptronic)

Estimated Pages:

Approx. 1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive digital manual)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Management (DME), Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System

Drivetrain:

Transmission (Automatic Steptronic), Driveshaft, Differential, Axles

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, DSC), Wheels and Tires

Electrical:

Basic 12V System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Ignition System, Instrument Cluster, Body Electronics (Central Body Module - ZKE), Comfort Systems (HVAC, Seats), Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Sunroof), Audio System, Navigation System (if equipped)

Body:

Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Glass, Sealing

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement, Fluid Checks and Replenishments

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Symptom-Based Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Interpretation, Component Testing

Repair:

Engine Rebuilding (partial to full), Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Rack Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair and Replacement

Installation:

Component Installation and Replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), Accessory Installation (where applicable)

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance to complete mechanical and electrical system overhauls. Includes detailed component removal, installation, and adjustment procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Software

Searchability:

Likely fully searchable text for quick access to information

Graphics:

Includes diagrams, schematics, and illustrations

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use

Binding:

N/A (Digital Software)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M62TU (Technical Update)

Configuration:

4.4-liter (4398 cc) V8, DOHC, 32 valves

Bore X Stroke:

94.0 mm x 79.1 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Engine Management:

Bosch Motronic ME 7.2

Horsepower:

282 hp @ 5400 rpm

Torque:

324 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 equivalent)

Oil Type:

SAE 0W-40 or 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil (BMW Longlife-01 specification)

Oil Capacity:

7.0 US quarts (6.6 liters)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic with Steptronic Manual Shift Control

Transmission Model:

GM 5L40-E (or ZF 5HP30 depending on specific VIN/market build)

Steptronic Functionality:

Allows manual gear selection via shifter or steering wheel buttons (if equipped).

Fluid Specification:

Dexron III or equivalent Dexron VI (refer to manual for exact BMW spec)

Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters) for fluid change (Pan Drop & Filter)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

201.5 inches (5118 mm)

Width:

73.5 inches (1867 mm)

Height:

57.0 inches (1448 mm)

Wheelbase:

124.4 inches (3160 mm)

Front Headroom:

39.4 inches (1001 mm)

Rear Headroom:

39.1 inches (993 mm)

Front Legroom:

41.3 inches (1049 mm)

Rear Legroom:

47.2 inches (1199 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4300-4500 lbs (1950-2041 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 5512 lbs (2500 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Not explicitly rated by NHTSA in a way comparable to modern standards, but generally considered robust.

IIHS Side Impact:

Not explicitly rated by IIHS in a way comparable to modern standards.

Traction Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)

Headlights:

Halogen Projector Headlights with Auto-leveling, Xenon High-Intensity Discharge (HID) optional

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, front side-impact airbags

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts with pretensioners

Chassis Construction:

Reinforced steel chassis with crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Business or Professional CD system with optional Navigation

Navigation:

BMW's early generation in-dash navigation system with CD-ROM map data.

Sound System:

Standard 10-speaker system, optional premium systems (e.g., Harman Kardon).

Cruise Control:

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) optional on some models

Parking Assist:

Rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC) optional

Cellular Integration:

Optional integrated cellular phone system with BMW Assist (early telematics).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable Service Interval System (VSIS) based on driving conditions, typically 7,500-15,000 miles or annually.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as indicated by VSIS

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or annually

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (e.g., iridium)

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-60,000 miles

Transmission Service:

Fluid and filter change recommended around 60,000-80,000 miles, though BMW initially considered it 'lifetime'.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 (BMW High Performance Brake Fluid)

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid

Differential Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (check manual for specific BMW specification)

Common Problems:

Cooling system leaks (plastic components), VANOS solenoid failure, oil leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket), EWS immobilizer system faults, oxygen sensor failures, ABS/DSC sensor issues, door handle microswitches.

Electrical Gremlins:

Due to the complex electronics of the era, some intermittent electrical issues can arise, often related to wiring harnesses, grounds, or module failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused luxury vehicles with a strong emphasis on performance and engineering.

E38 Generation:

The E38 generation of the 7 Series, produced from 1994 to 2001, represented BMW's flagship sedan, known for its elegant design, advanced technology, and luxurious comfort.

Technical Updates In 2000:

The 2000 model year likely featured the 'TU' (Technical Update) designation for the M62 V8 engine, which included updates for improved reliability and performance (e.g., VANOS improvements).

Production Years:

1994-2001

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

The E38 generation 7 Series was widely recognized for its technological advancements, luxury, and driving dynamics, often earning accolades in automotive media for its segment.