Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Competitors 1991:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126), Lexus LS 400 (XF10), Cadillac DeVille, Lincoln Town Car.
Strengths:
Renowned BMW driving dynamics, robust M30 engine, advanced features for its era, comfortable ride, high-quality interior materials.
Standard Features:
Leather upholstery, automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats with memory, cruise control, power moonroof, power windows and mirrors.
Optional Features:
Heated front and rear seats, premium sound system, self-leveling rear suspension (on some models), cellular telephone.
Diagnostic Coverage:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Repair Coverage:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for mechanical and electrical components.
Maintenance Coverage:
Complete maintenance schedules, fluid specifications, and interval guidelines.
Wiring Diagrams Coverage:
Includes detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits.
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified, but indicates a comprehensive volume).
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Engine:
3.5L Inline-6 (M30B35): Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, emissions, ignition, starting, charging.
Transmission:
Automatic Transmission (ZF 4HP22): Operation, diagnosis, repair, fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, rear axle assembly.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, linkages.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid, hydraulic system.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting, horn, wipers, power windows, mirrors, seats, central locking.
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals, interior trim, sound deadening.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair.
Chassis Electrical:
Instrument cluster, warning lights, on-board computer diagnostics.
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head removal/installation, piston/ring replacement, bearing service.
Transmission Repair:
Transmission fluid and filter change, torque converter service, internal transmission component repair.
Brake System Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, brake fluid flush, ABS bleeding.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Shock absorber replacement, ball joint and tie rod end replacement, steering rack service.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnosis of electrical faults using wiring diagrams and test procedures.
Body Panel Repair:
Door adjustment, panel replacement, rust repair, weatherstrip replacement.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon problems.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt replacement, coolant flush.
Depth:
Full factory specifications, diagnostic codes, component testing, disassembly/assembly procedures.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners.
Tolerance Data:
Specific measurement tolerances for engine and chassis components.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on necessary special tools and diagnostic equipment.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions (consult manual for specific recommendations).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Transmission Service Interval:
Fluid and filter change every 50,000-60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, viscosity 5W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific BMW approval).
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 ethylene glycol based) or compatible, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Common Problems Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket, potential for head gasket failure if overheated, idle control valve issues.
Common Problems Cooling:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack, water pump failure, thermostat issues.
Common Problems Electrical:
Dashboard illumination issues, SRS warning light, door lock actuator failures, EML (Engine Management Light) issues.
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, sagging rear self-leveling suspension (if equipped).