Historical Context:
The E32 7-Series represented BMW's flagship luxury sedan, competing with Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Jaguar XJ. It was known for its advanced technology, refined driving dynamics, and sophisticated styling.
Competitors Of The Era:
Mercedes-Benz W124/W140, Jaguar XJ (XJ40), Lexus LS 400.
Signature Attributes:
V8 engine options (M60), advanced electronics (ASC+T, onboard computer), long wheelbase (iL models), premium interior materials, sophisticated suspension.
Target Audience:
Owners, independent repair shops, enthusiasts specializing in classic BMWs.
Why Needed:
Complex German engineering requires precise service information. This manual provides the in-depth knowledge necessary for proper maintenance and repair.
General Coverage:
Comprehensive workshop and repair procedures for BMW 7-Series (E32) models.
Specific Models Covered:
730i, 730iL, 735i, 735iL, 740i, 740iL
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Workshop Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust.
Engine Management:
Ignition system, electronic fuel injection (DME), emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, clutch, driveshaft, differential.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering system, power steering.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), disc and pad replacement, brake fluid.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories.
Bodywork Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, body repair, structural information.
Heating Ventilation Ac:
HVAC system operation, component testing, refrigerant.
Interior:
Seat adjustment, dashboard, trim removal and installation.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation, component testing.
Component Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding engine, transmission, differentials, etc.
Repair Replacement:
Step-by-step guides for replacing all major and minor components.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagrams, circuit testing, component diagnosis.
Specification Data:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, alignment settings.
Depth:
Professional-level workshop manual covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Searchable Text:
Yes (typical for well-produced PDFs)
Printability:
Printable pages
Image Resolution:
High (essential for clear diagrams)
Diagram Clarity:
Excellent (crucial for E32 complexity)
Digital Access:
Downloadable file
Physical Manual Analogy:
Durable, high-quality paper stock suitable for workshop environments.
Engine Families:
M30 (inline-6), M60 (V8)
Inline 6 Variant 1 Displacement:
2.988 cc (3.0 Liters)
Inline 6 Variant 1 Power:
Approx. 188 hp @ 5,800 rpm (M30B30)
Inline 6 Variant 1 Torque:
Approx. 270 Nm @ 4,000 rpm (M30B30)
Inline 6 Variant 2 Displacement:
3.430 cc (3.5 Liters)
Inline 6 Variant 2 Power:
Approx. 211 hp @ 5,700 rpm (M30B35)
Inline 6 Variant 2 Torque:
Approx. 305 Nm @ 4,000 rpm (M30B35)
V8 Variant 1 Displacement:
2.997 cc (3.0 Liters)
V8 Variant 1 Power:
Approx. 215 hp @ 5,800 rpm (M60B30)
V8 Variant 1 Torque:
Approx. 290 Nm @ 4,500 rpm (M60B30)
V8 Variant 2 Displacement:
3.982 cc (4.0 Liters)
V8 Variant 2 Power:
Approx. 282 hp @ 5,800 rpm (M60B40)
V8 Variant 2 Torque:
Approx. 400 Nm @ 4,500 rpm (M60B40)
0 To 100 Km H 735I:
Approx. 8.5 seconds
0 To 100 Km H 740I:
Approx. 7.4 seconds
Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic (various versions depending on engine/year)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 95/98 recommended)
M60 Block Material:
Aluminum alloy (first production V8 from BMW)
M30 Block Material:
Cast Iron
Transmission Options Early Models:
4-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP22)
Transmission Options Later Models:
5-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 5HP18 for 3.0L, ZF 5HP30 for 4.0L)
Manual Transmission Availability:
Rare, primarily in some European markets, not typically covered in detail for North American models. Manuals for these specific transmissions may be separate or niche.
Automatic Transmission Modes:
Sport and Economy modes (on some models).
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW LT-3 (or equivalent ATF meeting DEXRON-III specifications, consult specific model year).
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity Approx:
8-10 Liters (depending on model and procedure).
Historical Rating Availability:
Modern crash test ratings (NHTSA/IIHS) are not directly comparable to this era, but the E32 was built to high safety standards for its time.
ABS:
Standard on most models, ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) optional or standard on later models.
Traction Control:
ASC+T available on V8 models and some later 6-cylinder models.
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard from 1990 onwards. Passenger airbag optional or standard on later models.
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis and safety cell construction.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners (front).
Audio System:
Premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon optional), cassette player, early CD integration.
Navigation:
Optional early GPS navigation systems (primitive by modern standards).
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear park distance sensors (early implementation).
Phone Integration:
Optional integrated car phone systems.
Climate Control:
Automatic dual-zone climate control, rear climate control outlets.
Seat Features:
Power adjustable front seats with memory, heated seats, lumbar support.
Window Sunroof Control:
Power windows, power sunroof, automatic closing function.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually. Varies by driving conditions and oil type used.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approx. 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on plug type (e.g., standard vs. platinum). Manual will specify exact type and interval.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Oil Capacity Approx 6Cyl:
6.5 Liters (with filter).
Engine Oil Capacity Approx V8:
7.5 Liters (with filter).
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Glysantin G48 or equivalent).
Common Electrical Faults:
Wiring harness degradation (especially around engine bay), sensor failures, ABS module issues.
Common Engine Issues:
M60 timing chain guides (plastic guides can break), head gasket leaks (especially on higher mileage units), fuel injector issues.
Common Suspension Issues:
Worn control arm bushings, strut mounts, self-leveling rear suspension (SLS) leaks or pump failure on some models.
Common Cooling System Issues:
Plastic coolant expansion tank cracks, water pump failure, thermostat issues.
Common Interior Issues:
Headliner sag, crumbling foam on seats, pixelated instrument cluster displays (often repairable).
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' was solidified with models like the E32, blending luxury with performance.
Predecessor:
BMW E23 7-Series.
Successor:
BMW E38 7-Series.
Production Years:
1986-1994.
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany.
Key Updates During Production:
Introduction of V8 engines (M60) in 1992, updated electronics, and minor styling tweaks.
Industry Acclaim:
Consistently praised for its blend of luxury, performance, and technological innovation by automotive journalists of the era.
Consumer Reports Historical:
While specific ratings vary, generally regarded as a reliable luxury vehicle for its time, though maintenance costs could be higher than average.
Bmw Engineering Standards:
Built to meet BMW's stringent internal engineering and quality standards.