Production Years Covered:
1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994
Engine Codes:
M30B35 (3.5L I6), M60B30 (3.0L V8), M60B40 (4.0L V8)
Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), Lexus LS 400 (XF10), Jaguar XJ (XJ40), Audi V8 Quattro
Design Philosophy:
Advanced technology, luxurious interior, superior driving dynamics, build quality
V8 Introduction:
Marked BMW's return to V8 engines in this segment with the M60 powerplant
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, cooling, lubrication systems; Transmission (manual and automatic) overhaul and servicing
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear, including self-leveling rear suspension), steering, brakes (ABS, hydraulics, components), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, ECU diagnostics, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, mirrors, seats, climate control, audio system, central locking, alarm system
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, sunroof
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Repair Overhaul:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper service, suspension component replacement, steering rack repair, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, component testing procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics
Engine Options:
3.5L Inline-6 (M30B35), 3.0L V8 (M60B30), 4.0L V8 (M60B40)
3.5L I6 Power:
Approx. 208 hp @ 5700 rpm
3.5L I6 Torque:
Approx. 214 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
4.0L V8 Power:
Approx. 282 hp @ 5800 rpm
4.0L V8 Torque:
Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection (M30), Bosch Motronic DME (M60)
Engine Materials:
Cast iron block (M30), Aluminum block (M60)
Crash Test Data:
Limited official data for this era, but designed with advanced safety for its time
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available (ASC) on some models
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard from 1990 onwards; passenger airbag optional/later standard
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Audio System:
Premium Hi-Fi systems available, cassette player standard
Navigation:
Early GPS navigation systems available on some late E32 models
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors available on some models
Phone Integration:
Optional integrated car phone systems
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with dual-zone capability available
Memory Seats:
Power-adjustable front seats with memory functions available
Oil Change Interval:
7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for precise recommendations)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium
Timing Belt Chain:
M30 engines use a timing chain (long-life). M60 V8 engines use a timing chain with guides (potential wear item).
Engine Oil Type M30:
SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (API SG or higher), check manual for specifics
Engine Oil Type M60:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic (API SJ or higher recommended for V8s)
Coolant:
BMW Blue coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Fluid Auto:
ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 (or equivalent Dexron III/VI for some applications - verify with manual)
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tanks and coolant hoses can become brittle; water pump seals can leak
Electrical:
Corrosion on wiring connectors, ABS sensor failures, EML (engine management) issues, OBC (on-board computer) pixelation
Fuel System M60:
DLC (Diagnostic Link Connector) corrosion, vacuum leaks, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) on later M60 engines can be noisy if guides wear
Suspension:
Rear self-leveling suspension (SLS) hydraulic lines and accumulators can fail; front control arm bushings wear
Interior:
Headliner sag, dead pixels in the instrument cluster, driver's seat bolster wear
Bmw Legacy:
Known for engineering excellence, sporty driving dynamics, and quality construction
E32 Introduction:
Introduced in 1986 (for 1987 model year) as the successor to the E23, setting new benchmarks in luxury, technology, and performance
V8 Powertrain Launch:
The E32 was the first BMW to feature a V8 engine (M60 series) in 1992
Manufacturing Plant:
Dingolfing, Germany
Total Production E32:
Approx. 350,000 units
Performance Awards:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and comfort, often winning comparisons against competitors
Reliability Perception:
Generally considered well-built, though electronic systems and specific components can require diligent maintenance
Design Awards:
Known for its elegant and timeless design, which influenced subsequent BMW models
