Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan.
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs, automotive technicians, enthusiasts.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Lexus LS, Jaguar XJ, Audi A8.
Luxury:
Renowned for its blend of advanced technology, superior comfort, and refined driving dynamics.
Innovation:
Introduced significant advancements in automotive engineering and electronic systems for its era.
Powertrain:
Engine (M60B40 V8), transmission (automatic), drivetrain, fuel system, exhaust system.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear, including self-leveling rear suspension), steering, brakes (including ABS).
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, diagnostics, ECU functions, lighting, accessories.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, climate control, safety systems (airbags).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation, electrical system testing.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, and electrical.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized BMW tools required for specific repairs.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks and adjustments to full engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repairs.
Type:
5-speed Steptronic automatic transmission (GM 5L40-E for 740i, ZF 5HP30 for 740iL in some markets, though the manual specifically mentions the M60B40 engine which often came with the ZF 5HP30 for both, but confirm specifics).
Type:
Manual transmission was not offered for the 740i/iL in North America for this model year.
Shifting:
Adaptive electronic control, Steptronic manual shifting mode.
Fluid Type:
BMW recommends ATF LT 71141 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF1, Mobil ATF LT 71141).
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) for 1994 models (based on typical E38 ratings).
ABS:
Standard, BMW's advanced ABS system.
Traction Control:
Optional or standard depending on market and specific options; often ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control plus Traction).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners.
Head Unit:
Standard BMW Business or Professional CD/radio systems, often with Nakamichi or Harman Kardon premium sound options.
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system with an in-dash screen.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC).
Phone:
Optional integrated car phone system.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system, or annually. Refer to the manual for exact intervals.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or at approximately 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Replace at approximately 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) or equivalent SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil. Oil capacity approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts).
Coolant:
BMW Blue coolant or equivalent G48 ethylene glycol-based coolant mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity approx. 10.5 liters (11.1 US quarts).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) or DOT 4 Plus. Flush and replace every 2 years.
Cooling System:
Coolant leaks from plastic components (expansion tank, hoses, water pump), thermostat failure, radiator issues.
Electronics:
Heated oxygen sensor failure, ABS/ASC sensor issues, window regulator failures, pixelated LCD displays (often on instrument cluster/DIC).
Engine M60:
Timing chain guides (plastic components can become brittle and fail), valve stem seals, VANOS unit (variable valve timing) can require service.
Suspension:
Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and rear self-leveling suspension components (shocks, pumps).
Philosophy:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) is known for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan, emphasizing performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.
E38 Introduction:
The E38 generation of the 7 Series debuted in 1994, replacing the E32. It represented a significant step forward in design, technology, and comfort.
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing Plant, Germany.
Production Years E38:
1994-2001
