Vehicle Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Brand Perception:
BMW's flagship model, known for performance, luxury, and advanced engineering for its era.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W140), Audi V8 quattro, Lexus LS 400.
Engine Technology:
Introduction of the M60 V8 engine, a significant technological leap for BMW's larger sedans.
Body Styles:
Available in standard wheelbase (740i) and long wheelbase (740iL) for enhanced rear passenger space.
Technological Advancements:
Early adoption of advanced electronics, including CAN bus architecture, integrated diagnostics, and sophisticated climate control.
Engine Management:
Detailed diagnosis and repair of DME (Digital Motor Electronics), sensors, actuators, fuel injection, ignition timing.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul procedures for the M60B40 V8 engine, including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing chain, and lubrication system.
Transmission:
Repair and overhaul of the 4HP22EH automatic transmission, including valve body, torque converter, clutch packs, and electronic control.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, including struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, springs, and self-leveling rear suspension (SLS).
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), calipers, rotors, pads, brake lines, and hydraulic control unit.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component location, troubleshooting of lighting, power windows, mirrors, locks, climate control, instrument cluster, and battery management.
Body And Interior:
Panel replacement, door mechanisms, interior trim removal and installation, seat adjustments, sunroof operation.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, drive belt inspection and replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting common drivability issues, electrical faults, and component failures using diagnostic codes and systematic checks.
Component Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for rebuilding the engine, transmission, and major mechanical assemblies.
Alignment And Suspension Adjustment:
Specifications and procedures for wheel alignment and adjustment of suspension components.
Climate Control Repair:
Diagnosis and repair of HVAC system, including compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower motor, and refrigerant handling.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and component-level repair.
Engine Type:
4.0L (3982 cc) Naturally Aspirated V8
Bore X Stroke:
89 mm x 79 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
282 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic M3.3)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (91 octane recommended)
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum
Valvetrain:
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder
Timing Drive:
Timing Chain (dual row for critical components)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22EH)
Optional Transmission:
None offered for 740i/740iL in 1991.
Shift Modes:
Standard/Sport (S/M) mode selection for altered shift points.
Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW ATF LT-2 (or equivalent like Dexron II-E)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8.0 liters (dry fill)
Crash Test Data:
Limited official NHTSA/IIHS data for this specific model year; focus on structural integrity and passive safety systems of the era.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional ASC (Automatic Stability Control) available on some models.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard; passenger airbag optional or phased in during the model year.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Structural Reinforcement:
Reinforced chassis, safety cell construction, and impact-absorbing crumple zones.
Audio System:
Factory premium sound system, potentially with CD changer option and cassette player.
Climate Control:
Automatic dual-zone climate control with recirculation and air filtration.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors ('Park Distance Control') were an optional feature.
Telecommunications:
Optional integrated car phone (cellular).
Memory Seats:
Power adjustable front seats with memory function for driver's seat and mirrors.
Sunroof:
Power glass sunroof with tilt and slide function.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific conditions.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended every 50,000 - 60,000 miles, though often considered 'lifetime' by older standards. Manual will specify.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles (depending on plug type, likely copper or platinum for this era).
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW High Performance Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (refer to manual for exact spec, e.g., BMW LL-98 spec development).
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Ethylene Glycol based coolant (or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Head Gasket Leaks:
While the M60 is robust, early signs of coolant leaks or oil in coolant can indicate head gasket issues.
Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:
Common due to age and material degradation, leading to drips.
ABS Module Failure:
The ABS control module can be prone to failure over time, affecting braking performance.
Window Regulator Failure:
Power window mechanisms can fail due to wear on motors and cables.
Evaporator Core Leaks:
Common issue for HVAC systems, causing coolant loss and often requiring dashboard removal for replacement.
Self Leveling Suspension Failure:
The SLS system (on rear) can develop leaks in the accumulators or pump, leading to a sagging rear end.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused luxury vehicles with performance engineering.
E32 Generation:
The E32 generation (1986-1994) marked a significant step forward in BMW's luxury sedan offerings, introducing V8 engines and advanced technology.
740I Introduction:
The 740i and 740iL models, powered by the new M60 V8, were introduced to offer a more powerful and refined alternative to the previous 735i.
Production Period:
The E32 generation was produced from 1986 to 1994. The 740i/740iL variants were introduced in the early 1990s.