🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

7 Series

Specific Model:

740i / 740iL

Model Code:

E38

Year:

1992

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size Luxury Sedan

Competitors 1992:

Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W140), Lexus LS 400, Jaguar XJ6, Audi V8 Quattro.

Key Selling Points:

Advanced engineering, driver-focused dynamics, sophisticated design, V8 engine performance, luxury appointments.

Model Variant Distinction:

740i (standard wheelbase), 740iL (long wheelbase) offering increased rear legroom.

Introduction Year E38:

The E38 generation of the 7 Series debuted in 1994, however, the 740i/iL designation using the M60 engine was introduced earlier in some markets, or this manual might cover transitional vehicles or earlier models not strictly designated E38 but sharing mechanicals. (Note: A 1992 model year 740i/iL typically refers to the E32 generation or early E38 precursors. Given the M60 engine, it's likely referencing the E32 740i/iL with the M60 V8 which was introduced in 1992 as a replacement for the 735i/iL and 750i/iL with the M30 engine). This manual is likely for the E32 740i/iL.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete factory service and repair for 1992 BMW 740i and 740iL models.

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds (precise count not specified but implied to be comprehensive)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (M60B40 V8), fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system.

Drivetrain:

Transmission (automatic transmission details, e.g., Steptronic optional later but likely 4HP22/4HP24 for early E38), driveline components, driveshafts, differentials.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear independent suspension, struts, control arms, bushings), steering system, braking system (ABS, hydraulic components), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Complete electrical system diagnosis, wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting systems, instrumentation, body electronics, ECU (DME) and related sensors.

Body:

Body construction, interior trim, exterior panels, doors, windows, locks, HVAC system, climate control, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts).

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance procedures, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, component testing procedures.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical systems, including component removal, overhaul, and reinstallation.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for fasteners, component measurements, tolerances, electrical system specifications.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of special tools required for specific repairs and adjustments.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic preventative maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhaul and complex electrical system diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable for efficient information retrieval.

Printability:

Designed for printing, allowing users to print entire manual or specific pages.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M60B40

Engine Type:

4.0L V8 (3982 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84 mm x 90 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Valve Train:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder (32 valves total), Chain-driven dual overhead camshafts.

Horsepower:

282 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque:

295 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) / Motronic M3.3

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 11.5 Liters (12.2 US Quarts)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent is a modern replacement)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts) with filter

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 synthetic (per BMW specifications of the era)

Spark Plugs:

Bosch FGR7DQP+ (or equivalent)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Automatic (e.g., ZF 5HP30 or 4HP24 on earlier models, M60B40 often paired with 5HP30 or 4HP24)

Manual Transmission:

Not typically offered or very rare in US market 740i/iL models of this era.

Shift Modes:

Standard automatic, possibly with Sport/Economy modes depending on specific production date and options.

Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.0 - 9.0 Liters (depending on model and torque converter drain)

Fluid Specification:

ZF Lifeguardfluid (e.g., Lifeguardfluid T-IV or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid for earlier models, refer to manual for exact spec).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase 740I:

Approx. 2995 mm (117.9 in)

Wheelbase 740Il:

Approx. 3155 mm (124.2 in)

Length 740I:

Approx. 5024 mm (197.8 in)

Length 740Il:

Approx. 5184 mm (204.1 in)

Curb Weight 740I:

Approx. 1800 kg (3968 lbs)

Curb Weight 740Il:

Approx. 1850 kg (4079 lbs)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Standard Wheel Size:

16 inches (Alloy)

Standard Tire Size:

225/60R16 (front and rear)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Information not readily available for this specific model year by current standards. Early 90s lacked standardized rigorous testing.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) may have been available.

Airbags:

Driver's airbag standard; Passenger airbag optional or standard depending on late-production 1992 models or early E38 transition.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Bavaria C Business CD or similar premium audio system with cassette and CD player. Optional navigation system (CCC) was pioneering for its time.

Speakers:

Multiple speakers throughout the cabin, often with premium audio options available.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Parking Sensors:

Rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC) were an option.

Telecommunications:

Optional car phone integrated into the armrest or dashboard.

HVAC System:

Dual-zone automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control) with recirculation and cabin air filters.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used (refer to manual for specific BMW recommendations for the era).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 60,000 miles (for platinum-tipped plugs).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 30,000 - 50,000 miles, or as indicated by the service indicator system.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)

Engine Components:

Valve stem seals (oil consumption), timing chain guides (potential wear, though M60 is generally robust), VANOS system (if equipped on later M60 variants or early M62 predecessors).

Cooling System:

Plastic coolant expansion tank and radiator end tanks can become brittle and crack.

Electrical System:

ABS/ASC sensor failures, door lock actuators, window regulators, headliner sagging, pixelated instrument cluster displays (dead pixels).

Suspension Components:

Control arm bushings, sway bar links, and shock absorber mounts can wear over time, leading to a less precise feel.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-centric, performance-oriented luxury vehicles.

E32 Generation:

The 1992 740i/iL represents the zenith of the E32 generation, which ran from 1986 to 1994. The introduction of the M60 V8 engine in 1992 marked a significant upgrade in performance and technology for the 7 Series.

Successor:

The E38 generation succeeded the E32 in 1994, introducing a new chassis, updated technology, and further refined powertrains.

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing Plant, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

While the E38 generation (starting 1994) often featured on '10 Best' lists, the specific 1992 E32 740i/iL was highly regarded for its blend of performance and luxury, contributing to the 7 Series' consistent critical acclaim.

Road Test Reviews:

Contemporary reviews praised the V8 engine's smoothness, the car's refined ride, and its secure handling, establishing it as a benchmark in the luxury sedan segment.