Positioning:
Flagship luxury grand tourer, competing with models like the Mercedes-Benz SL and Jaguar XJ-S.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz R129 SL-Class, Jaguar XJ-S, Porsche 928.
Design:
Aerodynamic styling, pop-up headlights, luxurious interior, advanced technology for its era.
Performance Focus:
Emphasis on smooth, powerful V8 performance and comfortable long-distance cruising.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for V8 engines (M60 series).
Transmission:
Service and repair for automatic (e.g., 5HP30) and manual transmissions (e.g., Getrag S6S-420G).
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive system, differential, driveshaft, and axle components.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including MacPherson struts, multi-link, shock absorbers, springs, and bushings.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, and wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), rotor and pad replacement, bleeding procedures.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, ECU diagnostics, lighting systems, power windows, seats, mirrors, and climate control.
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, convertible top (if applicable to specific models covered), interior trim.
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system service, heater core, blower motor, and climate control unit diagnostics.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel tank, and evaporative emissions control systems.
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant, water pump, thermostat, and fan assembly service.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converters, mufflers, and pipe replacement.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Extensive diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.
Diagnostics:
ECM/DME fault code retrieval, component testing, and electrical circuit diagnosis.
Rebuilds:
Engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including torque specifications and clearances.
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and critical component specifications.
Depth:
Factory-level depth, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (or as indicated by the car's service indicator).
Spark Plugs:
Every 50,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., platinum or iridium).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic engine oil meeting BMW Longlife-98 specifications.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
ZF LifeguardFluid5 (or equivalent ATF meeting Dexron III specifications).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine M60:
Nikasil cylinder wall wear (early M60 engines, though less common in later US models which received Alusil), VANOS system issues, ignition coil failures.
Electrical:
Aging wiring harnesses, ABS module failures, door lock actuators, headlight motors.
Suspension:
Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and hydraulic self-leveling rear suspension (if equipped).
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant reservoir cracking, radiator leaks, water pump failure.
