Market Position:
The BMW E32 7 Series represented the pinnacle of BMW's luxury sedan offerings in its era, competing with established luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Audi V8 quattro.
Competitive Analysis:
The E32 offered a blend of potent engines, advanced technology for its time, refined driving dynamics, and opulent interiors, distinguishing it through its driver-focused engineering and classic BMW aesthetic.
Key Features:
Available with V8 and V12 engines (though this manual focuses on V8 variants), sophisticated independent suspension, extensive use of electronics, and a focus on driver comfort and performance.
Models Covered:
735i, 735iL, 740i, 740iL, 750iL
Model Years:
1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (typical BMW workshop manuals for this era are 1000+ pages)
Manual Type:
Workshop Manual / Repair Manual / Service Manual
Format:
PDF (Downloadable)
Engine Service:
Complete overhaul, diagnosis, repair, and troubleshooting for all specified engine variants.
Cylinder Head Service:
Cylinder head removal, installation, valve train components, gasket replacement, and machining specifications.
Lubrication System Service:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil cooler, pressure testing, and component lubrication specifications.
Camshaft Timing Chain Service:
Timing chain inspection, replacement, tensioner operation, and camshaft timing procedures.
Ignition System Service:
Spark plugs, coils, ignition module, wiring, and ignition timing adjustments.
Fuel Injection Service:
Bosch Motronic system diagnostics, fuel injectors, fuel pump, pressure regulator, and sensor calibration.
Cooling System Service:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant types, pressure testing, and bleeding procedures.
Exhaust System Service:
Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, and pipe replacement and repair.
Transmission Service:
Automatic and manual transmission overhaul, fluid changes, filter replacement, and clutch service.
Heating And Air Conditioning Service:
HVAC system diagnosis, component replacement, refrigerant handling, and climate control operation.
Airbag System Service:
Airbag module, sensors, wiring, and safety precautions for handling SRS components.
Bodywork And Chassis Service:
Panel replacement, structural repair, door mechanisms, and suspension alignment.
Electrical System And Wiring:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, component testing, and troubleshooting.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for common faults and electrical issues.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid checks, filter replacements, and lubrication points.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major systems.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission overhauls, including torque specifications and clearances.
Adjustment Procedures:
Ignition timing, idle speed, clutch engagement, and other critical adjustments.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds and electrical diagnostics.
Engine Variants:
M60B30 (3.0L V8 - early 730i, not explicitly listed but common in E32), M60B35 (3.5L V8 - 735i/iL), M60B40 (4.0L V8 - 740i/iL), M70B50 (5.0L V12 - 750iL).
735I/Il Engine:
3.5L M60B35 V8
740I/Il Engine:
4.0L M60B40 V8
750Il Engine:
5.0L M70B50 V12
735I/Il Horsepower:
Approx. 211 hp @ 5,800 rpm
735I/Il Torque:
Approx. 228 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
740I/Il Horsepower:
Approx. 282 hp @ 5,800 rpm
740I/Il Torque:
Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
750Il Horsepower:
Approx. 296 hp @ 5,200 rpm
750Il Torque:
Approx. 332 lb-ft @ 3,900 rpm
Fuel System:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (MFI) with individual coil ignition (DIS) for V8, dual ECUs for V12.
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded (91+ octane)
Safety Ratings:
While official NHTSA/IIHS ratings for this era are less comprehensive than today, the E32 was designed with a strong safety cage, crumple zones, and advanced features for its time. ABS was standard on most models.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models, advanced suspension for stability.
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags (driver and passenger, standard on later models), reinforced safety cell, side-impact protection beams.
Infotainment System:
Early E32 models featured basic cassette players and radios. Later models and optional systems included CD players, on-board computers displaying fuel economy and diagnostics, and early forms of navigation systems.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, power adjustable seats with memory, automatic climate control, and optional heated seats.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards, primarily focusing on in-car entertainment and basic vehicle status information.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Check manual for specific recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for V8 models. V12 may have different intervals. Always refer to the manual for exact types and intervals.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, viscosity grade typically 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-40 depending on climate. Refer to manual for exact BMW approved specifications.
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Dexron III or equivalent. Specific BMW fluid may be specified. Refer to manual.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Known Issues:
Common issues include aging wiring harnesses (especially in the engine bay), coolant leaks from plastic components (valley pan, hose connections), electronic control unit failures, ABS sensor issues, and wear on suspension bushings. The M60 V8 engines can suffer from cylinder wall scoring if maintenance is neglected. The M70 V12 is complex and requires meticulous maintenance.
Common Repair:
Head gasket replacement (on some early M60 V8s), thermostat housing replacement, fuel injector service, and various electrical repairs.
