🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

750iL

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

E38

Engine Code Variant:

M73B50

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Full-size luxury sedan

Target Audience:

Owners and independent repair shops seeking detailed service information for the 1997 BMW 750iL

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W140), Lexus LS400, Audi A8 (D2)

Vehicle Selling Points:

V12 engine, advanced technology for its era, luxurious interior, refined ride quality, executive-class comfort.

Manual Value Proposition:

Official BMW documentation ensures accuracy and completeness, critical for maintaining a complex luxury vehicle like the 750iL. Saves time and money on repairs compared to dealership services.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or similar accessible format)

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by digital format, but comprehensively covers all aspects

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanicals, cooling system, fuel system, lubrication system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine management (DME), emissions control

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission (ZF 5HP30), transmission control module (TCM), fluid specifications, torque converter, gear ratios

Electrical Systems:

Wiring diagrams, component locations, fuse box diagrams, power distribution, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems, instrument cluster, comfort electronics (HVAC, power accessories), diagnostic port (OBD-II)

Chassis Systems:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, DSC), wheel alignment specifications, driveshaft, differential

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (including automatic climate control), sunroof, sound insulation

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seat belt pre-tensioners, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, brake pad and rotor replacement

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, fault code diagnosis, component testing, wiring checks, using diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1, INPA)

Repair Procedures:

Engine component overhauls, transmission repair, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component repair and replacement, bodywork repairs

Installation Procedures:

Component installation, accessory installation, electronic module replacement and coding

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Details:

Searchable text, printable pages, high-resolution diagrams and schematics. Optimized for computer and tablet viewing.

Diagram Clarity:

High clarity for all diagrams, wiring schematics, and illustrations.

Binding For Digital:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Quality For Digital:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

60-degree V12, Naturally Aspirated

Displacement:

4988 cc (5.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

85.0 mm x 73.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Horsepower:

322 hp @ 5000 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

361 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic M7.1.1)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

ECU Type:

Bosch Motronic M7.1.1 (Dual DME for V12)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Automatic

Transmission Model:

ZF 5HP30

Optional Transmission:

None available for 750iL in 1997

Transmission Features:

Adaptive transmission control, Sport mode, Steptronic (manual shifting option)

Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW ATF LT3 (or equivalent Dexron III compatible fluid)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 8.5 liters (dry fill)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

3070 mm (120.9 in)

Length:

5124 mm (201.7 in)

Width:

1862 mm (73.3 in)

Height:

1423 mm (56.0 in)

Curb Weight:

4387 lbs (1990 kg) (approx.)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

5600 lbs (2540 kg) (approx.)

Trunk Capacity:

17.3 cu ft (490 liters) (approx.)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

Not rated or unavailable for this specific year/model

IIHS Crash Test Rating:

Not rated or unavailable for this specific year/model

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Dsc:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Seat Belts:

Front and rear seat belts with pre-tensioners

Head Restraints:

Adjustable front and rear head restraints

💡 Technology Features

Navigation System:

Optional BMW Professional Navigation System (RDS, CD-ROM based maps)

Audio System:

BMW Business CD or Professional CD with premium speaker options (e.g., Harman Kardon)

Cruise Control:

Standard adaptive cruise control (optional on some models, but standard on flagship 750iL for '97)

Parking Assist:

Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC)

Telematics:

Optional BMW Assist (emergency call and telematics services)

HVAC System:

Automatic dual-zone climate control with cabin microfilter

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended around 50,000 to 60,000 miles, or as per the service manual's detailed recommendations.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual for specific interval, often around 60,000 miles for V12 engines, using appropriate iridium or platinum plugs.

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-98 (or equivalent synthetic oil, e.g., SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40)

Engine Oil Capacity:

8.0 liters (approx.)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent G11/G12 type)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Common Wear Items:

Cooling system components (hoses, water pump), VANOS system (on later M73 engines), ignition coils, fuel injectors, suspension bushings, ABS sensors, electronic control units (ECU).

Specific V12 Considerations:

Dual ignition systems require careful maintenance, potential for oil leaks from valve covers and oil pan, complexity of the engine management system.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Ultimate Driving Machine, focus on performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.

E38 Introduction:

The E38 generation replaced the E32 and was produced from 1994 to 2001, representing a significant technological and styling advancement.

750Il Positioning:

The 'iL' designation signifies the long-wheelbase version, offering increased rear legroom and a more opulent experience, positioning the 750iL as the flagship model.

Production Years:

1994-2001 (E38 generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

E38 generation (including 740i and 750iL variants) was a consistent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best awards in the early years of its production.

Reputation:

Highly regarded for its advanced engineering, comfortable ride, and powerful V12 engine, though known for higher maintenance costs compared to its competitors.