Vehicle Class:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Brand Philosophy:
BMW's commitment to 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' applied to luxury and performance.
Key Competitors Era:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), Audi V8 Quattro, Jaguar XJ, Lexus LS 400.
E32 Defining Features:
Sophisticated styling, powerful inline-six and V8 engines, advanced technology for its time (e.g., optional ASC+T, climate control), comfortable and luxurious interior.
Target Audience:
Professional technicians, experienced DIY mechanics, and BMW E32 owners seeking detailed repair and maintenance guidance.
Benefit To Owner:
Enables informed decision-making for maintenance and repairs, empowers owners to perform tasks themselves, saving on labor costs.
Engine:
Detailed coverage for M30 and M60 engines (V8 models introduced later in E32 lifecycle, but 1990 primarily M30).
Transmission:
Automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP22, 4HP24) and potentially manual (less common for E32).
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) systems, differential, driveshafts.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, hydraulic self-leveling rear suspension (optional).
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics, brake fluid.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of the automotive electrical system, including starter, alternator, battery, lighting, fuses, relays, and wiring diagrams.
Electronics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD) systems (limited by era), climate control, power windows, power seats, central locking, trip computer.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, fuel tank.
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant, thermostat, water pump, cooling fan.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes.
Bodywork:
Exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals.
Interior:
Seats, dashboard, trim panels, headliner.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures (oil changes, filter replacements, inspections).
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal and reinstallation.
Repair:
Repair procedures for various mechanical and electrical components.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common problems.
Cleaning:
Procedures for cleaning specific components.
Reinstalling:
Instructions for reassembly of systems and components.
Depth Of Coverage:
Factory-level technical detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Includes diagnostic codes, symptom-based troubleshooting, and specific testing procedures.
Repair Complexity:
Covers everything from basic fluid checks to major engine and transmission overhauls.
NHTSA Rating Era:
No specific NHTSA ratings typically available or publicly disclosed for this era of BMW in the same way as modern vehicles.
ABS Availability:
Standard on most E32 models, particularly for 1990.
Asc Availability:
Optional Automatic Stability Control (ASC) or ASC+T (Traction Control) available on some models.
Airbags Availability:
Driver's side airbag became standard for 1990, passenger airbag introduced later.
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners.
Audio System Era:
High-fidelity cassette stereo systems, often with premium speaker options (e.g., Hi-Fi sound system).
Display Technology:
LCD displays for climate control, trip computer, and radio frequency information.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Cellular Integration Era:
Optional car phone integration was cutting-edge for its time.
Power Features:
Power windows, power seats with memory function, power mirrors, central locking, power antenna.
Oil Change Interval Km:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil quality used (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Spark Plug Replacement Km:
Approx. 30,000-50,000 km (depending on plug type and condition).
Engine Oil Type E32 M30:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (consult manual for exact BMW specs).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW blue coolant or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Type Zf 4Hp22:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid). Verify with manual.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common E32 Issues:
Cooling system leaks (hoses, radiator), ignition system components (coil, distributors), fuel pump failures, seized blower motor, ABS sensor issues, window regulator failures, rear self-leveling suspension issues (if equipped).
Wiring Harness Degradation:
Aging wiring insulation can become brittle and lead to electrical gremlins.
Bmw Philosophy:
Long history of engineering excellence, focus on driving dynamics, and luxurious executive sedans.
E32 Introduction:
Introduced in 1986 as a successor to the E23 7 Series.
E32 Design Language:
Characterized by clean lines, integrated bumpers, and BMW's signature kidney grille. Designed by Claus Luthe.
Production Years:
1986-1994
Key Updates Through E32 Lifecycle:
Introduction of V8 engines (M60) in 1992, revised interior features, and safety improvements.