🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M6

Generation:

E24

Production Years:

1983-1989

Chassis Code:

E24

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

BMW M6 (E24) owners and independent repair shops seeking to maintain and repair these high-performance grand tourers.

Value Proposition:

Provides professional-level diagnostic and repair information equivalent to authorized dealer service departments, enabling cost savings and quality maintenance.

Emphasis On Safety:

Highlights important safety precautions, warnings, and cautions using distinct notation (WARNING, CAUTION, NOTE).

Diagnostic Emphasis:

Focuses on troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures to effectively identify and resolve vehicle issues.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Electrical System, Bodywork, Transmission, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Cooling System, Climate Control, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Routine Maintenance, Overhaul

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (typical workshop manuals for this era are several hundred pages, often 500+)

Type:

Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed coverage of the M88/3 (3.5L SOHC I6) and S38B35 (3.5L DOHC I6) engines, including disassembly, assembly, inspection, and component specifications.

Fuel System:

Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system diagnostics, component testing, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, and fuel lines.

Ignition System:

Ignition timing, spark plugs, distributor, ignition coils, control module, and troubleshooting.

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, oil cooler, lubrication passages, and oil specifications.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters (if applicable by market), mufflers, exhaust pipes, and mounting hardware.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, alternator, starter motor, battery, fuses, relays, lighting, instrumentation, and power distribution.

Body:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, mirrors, bumpers, trim, and rust prevention.

Transmission:

Getrag 265 5-speed manual transmission overhaul, clutch operation, shift linkage, and lubrication.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, sway bars), steering rack, power steering system, and alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, brake calipers, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid specifications, and bleeding procedures.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan clutch/electric fan, and coolant specifications.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections, and general upkeep.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for common and uncommon issues across all major systems.

Repair Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for virtually all parts of the vehicle.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of BMW-specific tools required for certain adjustments and repairs.

Depth:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Printability:

Yes, printable pages

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Delivery:

Electronic Delivery via Email

Speed:

Fast

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

M88/3

Engine Description 1:

3.5-liter (3453 cc) naturally aspirated inline-six cylinder, SOHC, dual overhead camshafts.

Engine Code 2:

S38B35

Engine Description 2:

3.5-liter (3453 cc) naturally aspirated inline-six cylinder, DOHC, dual overhead camshafts, higher compression and more aggressive camshafts than M88/3 for European markets.

Horsepower M88 3:

256 hp (191 kW) @ 6500 rpm (DIN)

Torque M88 3:

333 Nm (246 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm (DIN)

Horsepower S38B35:

260 hp (194 kW) @ 6500 rpm (DIN)

Torque S38B35:

333 Nm (246 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm (DIN)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic electronic fuel injection

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 265 5-speed manual transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission (less common for M6, more on 635CSi)

Clutch:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

Differential:

Limited Slip Differential (LSD) usually standard on M6 models

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4755 mm (187.2 in)

Width:

Approx. 1735 mm (68.3 in)

Height:

Approx. 1350 mm (53.1 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1650-1700 kg (3638-3748 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Contemporary crash test data is limited by modern standards; however, the E24 chassis was known for its robust construction and safety features for its era.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often standard or optional, depending on model year and market.

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts

Headrests:

Front and rear headrests

Chassis Design:

Reinforced passenger cell, energy-absorbing crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Analog radio, cassette player with potential for upgraded components.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control systems.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Not Applicable:

No modern connectivity features (Bluetooth, USB, etc.) are standard.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.

Major Service Interval:

Recommended around 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for tasks like spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid replacement.

Engine Oil:

Refer to manual, typically SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50 Synthetic/Mineral blend API SG or higher, 6.5 liters capacity.

Coolant:

BMW blue coolant or equivalent, 50/50 mix with distilled water, approx. 10.5 liters capacity.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 recommended, change every 2 years.

Transmission Fluid:

Manual: SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 GL-5 gear oil (approx. 1.8 liters). Automatic: ATF Dexron II or III.

Common Wear Items:

Eccentric shaft sensors (on later models), fuel pump, AFM (Air Flow Meter), AFM sensor, fuel injectors, distributor cap/rotor, spark plug wires, cooling system components (hoses, radiator, water pump), exhaust system corrosion, suspension bushings.

Engine Specific:

M88/3 and S38 engines are robust but require diligent maintenance. Valve adjustments are critical. Oil leaks can develop over time.

Electrical Gremlins:

Common in vehicles of this age; aging wiring harnesses, corroded connectors, and failing relays can cause intermittent issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorsport:

The M6 represents BMW's continued commitment to high-performance vehicles, building on decades of motorsport success.

E24 Origin:

The E24 was a luxury coupe based on the 6 Series platform, with the M6 variant being the homologation special for racing, featuring a significantly upgraded powertrain.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany

Total Units Produced:

Approximately 1,767 E24 M635CSi/M6 models were produced worldwide between 1983 and 1989.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Performance Legacy:

The BMW M6 (E24) is widely recognized as a classic sports coupe and a legendary homologation special for motorsport, celebrated for its performance and driving dynamics.

Collector Status:

Highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, often featured in classic car publications.