🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

735i / 735iL

Generation:

E32

Production Years Covered:

1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994

Chassis Code:

E32

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Luxury Sedan

Target Audience:

Affluent buyers seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced engineering

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi V8 Quattro, Lexus LS 400 (from 1990), Jaguar XJ

Engineering Philosophy:

Driver-focused luxury, advanced technology for its time, refined powertrain, high-quality interior materials

Distinctive Attributes:

Sophisticated styling, powerful inline-six engine, long-wheelbase ('iL' designation) option for enhanced rear legroom, focus on ride comfort and stability

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Emissions Control, Diagnostic Procedures

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1500-2000 pages (estimated based on typical BMW workshop manuals of this era and detail level)

Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF or similar, implied by 'Product Description')

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full overhaul procedures, component replacement, timing, valve adjustments, lubrication system, cooling system

Engine Management And Emissions:

Bosch Motronic system (M1.2, M1.3, M2.1, M2.7 depending on year/variant), fuel injection, ignition system, emission control devices, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing

Transmission Manual:

Disassembly, assembly, clutch service, gear shifting mechanism, fluid replacement

Transmission Automatic:

ZF 4HP22/4HP24 service, torque converter, valve body, solenoids, fluid and filter replacement, diagnostic procedures

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, universal joints, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications, control arms

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, tie rods, troubleshooting

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation and diagnosis, brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, bleeding procedures

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, component locations, fuses, relays, battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, locks, mirrors, seat adjustments

HVAC System:

Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control unit, blower motor, refrigerant servicing, component testing

Body And Chassis:

Exterior trim, interior trim, door mechanisms, hood, trunk, glass, seals, body repair, structural components

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt inspection/replacement, spark plug replacement

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, wiring diagram interpretation

Repair And Overhaul:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and installation; complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures

Special Tools And Jigs:

Identification and usage of specialized BMW tools required for specific repairs

Technical Specifications:

Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance, diagnostic parameters

Depth:

Comprehensive (designed for professional mechanics, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission overhauls and advanced diagnostics)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely PDF (digital download)

Searchability:

Typically searchable text within PDF format, allowing for quick information retrieval

Quality:

High-resolution scans/digital rendering, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text

Binding:

Not applicable for digital format, but original manuals were typically coil-bound or perfect-bound

Paper:

Not applicable for digital format, but original manuals used durable, high-quality paper

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Typical:

M30B35

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated, Inline 6-Cylinder, DOHC

Displacement:

3.5 Liters (3430 cc)

Horsepower Typical:

208 hp @ 5700 rpm (may vary slightly by year/market)

Torque Typical:

225 lb-ft (305 Nm) @ 4000 rpm (may vary slightly by year/market)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic Fuel Injection and Ignition Control

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22/4HP24)

Type:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260)

Automatic Modes:

Standard, Sport, and Economy modes (on some later models)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase 735I:

111.4 inches (2830 mm)

Wheelbase 735Il:

117.7 inches (2990 mm)

Length 735I:

196.6 inches (4995 mm)

Length 735Il:

202.9 inches (5155 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

3800-4000 lbs (1724-1814 kg) depending on configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Testing Era:

Pre-dates extensive modern government crash testing; relied on internal BMW safety engineering

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional on some models (ASC - Automatic Stability Control)

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag introduced later in the E32 lifecycle (typically from 1993/1994 onwards on some models)

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts, often with pre-tensioners

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Premium sound systems (e.g., Nakamichi or Harman Kardon depending on options), cassette player, radio.

On Board Computer:

OBc (On-Board Computer) providing diagnostics, fuel economy, and trip data. Known for display pixel degradation.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control

Parking Sensors:

Not a standard feature on this model; a very advanced option for its time.

Features:

Limited by era; primarily focused on vehicle systems and comfort features. No modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to specific manual for precise intervals)

Transmission Fluid:

Automatic: Check condition regularly, replacement typically recommended around 60,000-100,000 miles or as per manual. Manual: Check level periodically, replacement usually around 100,000 miles.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles

Engine Oil:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for exact viscosity and BMW LL-01/LL-04 if applicable for newer specs, though likely Castrol or similar approved oil for era)

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Dexron III (or equivalent ATF)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil

Coolant:

BMW Blue or Green Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4

Engine M30 Reliability:

Generally robust but known for oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), cooling system issues (radiator, water pump, thermostat), and potential head gasket failure if overheated.

Electrical Gremlins:

Common for older BMWs; issues with wiring harnesses (especially engine bay), ABS sensors, headlight leveling motors, and climate control modules.

Suspension Wear:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and strut mounts are common due to age and mileage, affecting handling and ride quality.

Interior Wear:

Cracked dashboard (especially under sun exposure), worn leather, sagging headliner, and failing pixels on the OBC (On-Board Computer).

Automatic Transmission:

ZF transmissions are generally durable but can develop issues with solenoids, valve bodies, or cooler lines causing rough shifting or failure to engage.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump failure, clogged injectors, and worn fuel pressure regulators can affect performance.

📚 Vehicle History

Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, sporty driving dynamics, and luxury.

Predecessor:

BMW E23 7 Series

Successor:

BMW E38 7 Series

Design Era:

Designed by Claus Luthe, representing a more aerodynamic and sculpted approach compared to its predecessor.

Manufacturing Locations:

Mainly Dingolfing, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Contemporary Acclaim:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its blend of luxury, performance, and technology upon release. Often cited as a benchmark in the luxury sedan class of its era.

General Perception:

Viewed as a sophisticated and well-engineered German luxury car, offering a compelling alternative to its primary competitors.