🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

7 Series

Model Variant:

740i / 740iL

Model Year:

1989

Chassis Code:

E32

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size Luxury Sedan

Brand Perception:

Synonymous with luxury, performance, and engineering excellence

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), Lexus LS 400, Jaguar XJ, Cadillac DeVille/Seville

Innovation:

Pioneered electronic engine management, advanced suspension, and sophisticated safety features for its era

Luxury Appointments:

High-quality materials, comfortable interior, advanced climate control, optional amenities

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics

Specific Systems:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Climate Control

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1000+

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, searchable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Detailed diagnostics, component testing, ECU functions, sensor data interpretation

Transmission Service:

Automatic transmission (e.g., 4HP22 EH) service, fluid changes, adjustments, common faults

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, power steering system, alignment procedures

Braking System:

Front and rear brake components (discs/pads), ABS system diagnostics and repair, hydraulic circuits

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, fuse locations, relay functions, starter, alternator, lighting, power windows, central locking

Climate Control HVAC:

AC system components, refrigerant handling, climate control unit diagnostics, blower motor, heater core

Fuel And Exhaust:

Fuel injection system (e.g., Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, exhaust manifold, catalytic converter

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake fluid flush, coolant checks

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, cylinder head service, drivetrain component replacement

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability and electrical issues

Component Removal Installation:

Detailed instructions for removing and reinstalling major components like alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel injectors

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners and assembly points

Depth Level:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds)

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using diagnostic tools and reading fault codes (if applicable for the era)

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format) - commonly searchable and printable

Digital Quality:

High-resolution scans, clear text and diagrams

Binding:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M60B30 (for 730i) / M60B40 (for 740i)

Engine Type:

V8, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 32 Valves

Displacement:

4.0 Liters (3982 cc)

Horsepower:

Approx. 282 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque:

Approx. 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) @ 4500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch Motronic M3.3

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)

Coolant Type:

BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free coolant

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 10.0 Liters (10.6 US Quarts)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (4HP22 EH)

Manual Transmission:

Not available for 740i model in this year

Electronic Control:

Electronically controlled hydraulic shifting for smooth transitions

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron II (or compatible)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts) - for a full refill

📐 Dimensions

Length 740I:

Approximately 196.1 inches (4981 mm)

Length 740Il:

Approximately 204.3 inches (5189 mm)

Wheelbase 740I:

Approximately 117.7 inches (2990 mm)

Wheelbase 740Il:

Approximately 124.3 inches (3157 mm)

Width:

Approximately 70.9 inches (1801 mm)

Height:

Approximately 55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Curb Weight 740I:

Approximately 4150 lbs (1882 kg)

Curb Weight 740Il:

Approximately 4250 lbs (1928 kg)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120

Standard Tire Size:

205/65R15 (may vary by market/option)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Not readily available for this era, but designed to high European standards.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional ASC (Automatic Stability Control) or ASC+T (Traction Control)

Airbags:

Driver's airbag standard; passenger airbag optional.

Seatbelts:

Pre-tensioning front seatbelts

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

High-fidelity premium sound systems, often with cassette player and radio. CD changer optional.

Climate Control:

Dual-zone automatic climate control with advanced air filtration and recirculation.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Parking Sensors:

Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear sensors were available.

Phone Integration:

Optional integrated car phone systems were available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil quality.

Transmission Fluid Service:

Recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or as per manual for longevity.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic (check manual for specific viscosity and API/ACEA ratings)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Cooling System Failures:

Plastic coolant expansion tanks prone to cracking; water pump seals can leak. Thermostat issues are also common.

M60 Engine Issues:

Timing chain guides and tensioners can wear, leading to potential chain slack. Nikasil cylinder bore coating can be affected by sulfur in fuel (less of an issue with proper fuel and maintenance).

Electrical Gremlins:

Aging wiring harnesses, corroded connections, and failing control modules can lead to various electrical faults.

ABS Asc Failures:

ABS/ASC control units, wheel speed sensors, and hydraulic modulator failures are common as the vehicle ages.

Suspension Wear:

Control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends wear over time, affecting steering and ride quality.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

Long history of producing premium vehicles renowned for engineering, performance, and driving dynamics.

E32 Introduction:

The E32 generation (1986-1994) represented a significant advancement in BMW's flagship luxury sedan line, succeeding the E23.

E32 Key Innovations:

Introduced the M60 V8 engine, first BMW to offer a V8, and incorporated advanced electronics and comfort features.

Production Years:

E32 generation: 1986–1994. Specific 740i/iL variants: 1992–1994 (though the 1989 model is often discussed in context of the earlier E32 variants).

Manufacturing Location:

Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The E32 generation (including variants like the 740i) was frequently recognized by automotive publications for its engineering and luxury.

Industry Impact:

Set benchmarks for luxury sedan technology and refinement in the late 1980s and early 1990s.