🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

7 Series

Model Code:

E32

Model Year:

1990

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The E32 7 Series was BMW's flagship luxury sedan, competing with Mercedes-Benz S-Class and other high-end executive cars. This manual reflects that premium positioning with detailed technical information.

Context:

This manual provides factory-level information crucial for maintaining the complex engineering of the E32, often exceeding the detail found in aftermarket 'chilton' or 'haynes' style guides for luxury vehicles.

Features:

Vehicle-specific data (not generic), detailed diagrams, diagnostic procedures, wiring schematics, and torque specifications, directly from BMW's engineering documentation.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All E32 7 Series models produced for 1990

Estimated Page Count:

700-1000+ (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed (as implied by dealership use)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, tuning, fuel injection systems (Bosch Motronic), emission controls.

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic Transmission (e.g., Getrag 5-speed, ZF 4HP22) repair, overhaul, diagnosis, fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive system, differential, driveshafts, CV joints.

Suspension:

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

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair, brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, master cylinder.

Electrical System:

Complete electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting systems, fuse/relay identification and testing.

Climate Control:

Air conditioning (A/C) system diagnosis and repair, heating system, blower motor, controls.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, hinges, locks, glass, interior trim, chassis lubrication.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel filter replacement, fuel tank servicing.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipes.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan operation.

Steering System:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, steering linkage.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and replacements.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, fault finding for all major systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, electrical component replacement.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic steps for engine performance issues, electrical faults, ABS system malfunctions, and climate control problems.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical diagnostics, and chassis repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Likely a printed manual; digital format (PDF) would be a reproduction.

Quality:

High-quality paper and printing, designed for durability in a workshop environment.

Binding:

Likely hardcover or heavy-duty spiral-bound for lay-flat usability.

Paper:

Durable, often coated paper stock to resist grease and dirt.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Likely covers the M30 inline-six engines (e.g., 730i, 735i) and potentially the M60 V8 engines (e.g., 740i) if introduced in early 1990 models for certain markets.

M30 Engine Displacement:

3.0L (M30B30) and 3.5L (M30B35)

M30 Horsepower Typical:

Approx. 184-211 hp (depending on variant)

M30 Torque Typical:

Approx. 200-230 lb-ft (depending on variant)

Injection System:

Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection and ignition management

Cylinder Configuration:

Inline-6 (M30) or V8 (M60)

Valvetrain:

SOHC (M30) or DOHC (M60)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission (e.g., Getrag 260/5 for some models)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP22 EH)

Transmission Control:

Electronic control for automatic transmissions (EH models), hydraulic control for manual.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF Dexron-II or equivalent (specific type critical for EH transmission)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 117.4 inches (2982 mm)

Length:

Approx. 198.6 inches (5045 mm)

Width:

Approx. 71.7 inches (1821 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.4 inches (1407 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3800-4200 lbs (1724-1905 kg) depending on engine and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 5000-5300 lbs (2268-2404 kg)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Standard Tire Size:

Typically 205/65VR15 or 225/60VR15

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

While official NHTSA/IIHS ratings for this era are less comprehensive, the E32 was engineered with a robust safety cage and significant structural integrity.

ABS:

Standard Bosch ABS system (Anti-lock Braking System)

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag was optional or standard on later models of the E32 series, passenger airbag less common for 1990.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear 3-point seat belts

Chassis Design:

Crumple zones, reinforced safety cage construction.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Premium audio systems, often with cassette tape player and possibly an early CD changer option.

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control with multi-zone capabilities was a hallmark.

Cruise Control:

Electronic cruise control.

Onboard Computer:

Early form of onboard computer for trip data and basic vehicle status checks.

Exterior Features:

Power-adjustable side mirrors, heated mirrors, headlight washers/wipers were available.

Seating:

Power-adjustable front seats with memory functions, heated seats available.

Lighting:

Interior courtesy lighting, map lights.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or annually (refer to specific manual for exact BMW recommendations).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Highly variable based on type, often 30,000-60,000 miles for standard plugs.

Coolant Flush:

Typically every 2 years or 30,000 miles.

Engine Oil Spec:

BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil, typically SAE 0W-30 or 5W-40 depending on climate (refer to specific manual for BMW approval numbers).

Coolant Spec:

BMW Blue Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 high-temperature brake fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Cooling system components (hoses, water pump, thermostat), front control arm bushings, fuel pump, ignition coil packs (if applicable), ABS sensors.

Electrical Gremlins:

Can experience minor electrical issues due to age, wiring harness degradation, and complex systems.

Head Gasket Risk:

While the M30 is robust, overheating can lead to head gasket issues, especially on higher mileage examples. The M60 V8 is more prone to Nikasil bore wear and VANOS issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for engineering excellence, performance, and luxury sedans dates back decades. The E32 continued this tradition, evolving from the E23.

E32 Introduction:

The E32 generation was introduced in 1986 as a successor to the E23 7 Series. It represented a significant leap in technology and design, including pioneering features for its time.

Production Years:

1986-1994

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

The E32 generation was consistently praised by automotive journalists for its blend of performance, comfort, and technological innovation, often being a benchmark in the luxury sedan segment.

Consumer Reports:

While specific ratings for the 1990 model year vary, the E32 was generally regarded as a well-engineered and reliable luxury vehicle for its time, with typical European car maintenance requirements.