Era Positioning:
The BMW E31 8 Series was BMW's flagship grand tourer of the 1990s, representing the pinnacle of German engineering, performance, and luxury for its time. It competed against other high-end GTs from brands like Mercedes-Benz (SL-Class) and Porsche.
Comparison Points:
Known for its distinctive design, powerful V8 and V12 engines, sophisticated chassis, and luxurious interior. It offered a blend of performance and comfort that set it apart.
Design Language:
Sleek, aerodynamic silhouette with signature pop-up headlights and a long hood. A design often considered timeless.
Powertrain Options:
Initially launched with the 850i featuring the M70 V12 engine, later joined by the 840i with the M60 V8 engine. These were powerful, smooth-revving engines.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics
Specific Systems Highlighted:
Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Electrical, HVAC, Body
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive, likely over 1000 pages (typical for factory service manuals)
Type:
Factory Authorized Service and Repair Manual
Format:
CD-ROM (Digital, Printable)
Powertrain:
Complete coverage of V8 and V12 engines, including M60 and M70 series. Detailed disassembly, assembly, and torque specifications for all internal engine components, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system.
Drivetrain:
Comprehensive information on the automatic transmission (e.g., 4HP22, 5HP30) and manual transmission (if applicable to covered years). Covers differential, driveshafts, axle components, and clutch (for manual).
Chassis And Suspension:
Detailed coverage of the multi-link front and rear suspension systems, including component replacement, alignment procedures, and specifications. Covers steering system components.
Brakes:
In-depth explanation of the anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake disc and pad replacement, caliper service, and hydraulic system bleeding procedures. Includes parking brake system.
Electrical System:
Extensive wiring schematics for all electrical systems, including engine management (DME), transmission control, lighting, power accessories, climate control, and diagnostic connectors (e.g., OBD-I).
Body And Interior:
Procedures for body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, convertible top operation (if applicable), interior trim, and seating adjustments. Includes collision repair guidelines.
HVAC:
Detailed diagnostics and repair procedures for the automatic climate control system, including refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), and blower motor service.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, coolant system service, brake fluid flush.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement (e.g., control arms, shock absorbers), brake system component replacement, differential service.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, using symptom charts, fault code interpretations (for OBD-I systems), and electrical troubleshooting guides.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Detailed guidance on diagnosing electrical faults using wiring diagrams, multimeter testing, and component testing procedures. Coverage of sensors, actuators, control modules, and wiring harness repair.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized BMW tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Factory level of detail, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
840I Engine:
M60B40: 4.0L (3982cc) V8, DOHC, 32 valves. Power: Approx. 282 hp @ 5800 rpm. Torque: Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm.
850I Engine:
M70B50: 5.0L (4988cc) V12, SOHC, 24 valves. Power: Approx. 296 hp @ 5200 rpm. Torque: Approx. 332 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm.
Acceleration 850I:
0-60 mph in approximately 6.5-7.0 seconds.
Top Speed:
Electronically limited to 155 mph for most markets.
Fuel Injection:
Bosch Motronic engine management system (e.g., Motronic 4.0 or 4.1) with multi-point fuel injection.
840I Transmission:
5-speed automatic (optional 6-speed manual was rare and often a retrofit).
850I Transmission:
4-speed automatic (e.g., 4HP22) or 6-speed manual (e.g., ZF S6-370).
Manual Transmission Availability:
Available on select models (primarily 850i), but less common than automatics.
Transmission Control:
Electronic transmission control for smooth shifting and adaptive programming.
Length:
Approx. 4785 mm (188.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 1855 mm (73.0 in)
Height:
Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2632 mm (103.6 in)
Curb Weight:
Varies by model, approx. 1700-1900 kg (3748-4189 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to specific model plate.
Crash Test Information:
Limited public crash test data available for this era of high-end GTs. BMW's focus was on active safety and robust passive safety features.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on all models.
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC) or ASC+T was available on later models or as an option.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags were standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.
Chassis Construction:
Reinforced safety cell and crumple zones.
Audio System:
Premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon) were often optional. Cassette player was common.
Navigation:
Early generation BMW navigation systems were available as an option in later years of the E31's production.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors were an option on later models.
Diagnostic Port:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics first generation) port for engine and transmission diagnostics, requiring specific BMW diagnostic tools or adapters.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions. Check Condition Based Service (CBS) system if applicable.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Recommend every 2-3 years or as specified by BMW, often using BMW's blue coolant.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Often considered a 'lifetime' fluid by manufacturers, but regular changes (e.g., every 60,000-100,000 miles) are highly recommended for longevity, especially for automatic transmissions.
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-98 specification, typically SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil (check specific owner's manual for exact viscosity). Engine oil capacity approx. 7.5-8.5 liters.
Coolant:
BMW approved coolant (e.g., BMW Antifreeze/Coolant - blue). 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity approx. 10-12 liters.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (or DOT 4 PLUS) low-viscosity brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S is common, verify specific requirement).
Common Problems E31:
ABS/ASC module failures, fuel tank flange leaks, door handle micro-switches, window regulator issues, aging rubber components (bushings, hoses), VANOS system (on some M60 engines), EML light illumination, catalytic converter failure.
Diagnostic Points:
The manual will guide on troubleshooting common E31 electrical gremlins and engine management faults.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long history of producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles, known for their 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos. The E31 continued this tradition in the GT segment.
E31 Development:
Developed as a successor to the BMW E24 6 Series, the E31 was a clean-sheet design intended to be BMW's ultimate expression of a luxury coupe. It featured advanced technology for its time.
Production Years:
1989-1999 (Manual covers 1989-1994 for specific models/engines).
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany.
Production Volume:
Relatively low production volume compared to mass-market cars, contributing to its exclusivity. Total E31 production was around 30,621 units.
