🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 7 Series Model Variant: 740i Model Code: E32 Production Years: 1988-1994 Market Segment: Full-size Luxury Sedan Codes Engine Code Primary: M60B40 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Flagship luxury sedan, representing BMW's technological and engineering prowess of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), Jaguar XJ, Lexus LS 400, Cadillac DeVille Differentiation: Known for its driver-focused dynamics, advanced (for its time) electronics, and sophisticated V8 engine. Key Features Features: V8 engine, luxurious interior, advanced suspension, available long-wheelbase (iL), focus on build quality and performance. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: BMW 7 Series 740i (E32 chassis) Additional Coverage: May include some commonalities with other E32 models (e.g., 735i, 750iL) where applicable, but primary focus is 740i. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Varies by publication, typically 1500-2500+ pages for comprehensive official manuals. Manual Type Type: Official Full Service Repair Manual Scope: Diagnostic, Repair, Maintenance, Overhaul, Electrical Schematics, Troubleshooting Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (M60B40), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System Transmission: Automatic Transmission (e.g., 4HP22, 5HP30 depending on specific drivetrain) Chassis: Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS), Driveline Electrical: Engine Management (DME), Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, HVAC Controls, Audio System, On-Board Computer (OBC), Body Control Modules (BCM) Body: Body Exterior Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Sealing Interior: Interior Trim, Seats, Dashboard, Center Console, Upholstery Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Belt Replacement, Fluid Checks & Replacements, Inspections Repair: Engine Overhaul, Transmission Service, Brake System Repairs, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Rack Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Replacement, HVAC System Repair Diagnostics: Fault Code Retrieval (OBD-I), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Component Testing, Wiring Diagram Interpretation Troubleshooting: Detailed step-by-step guides for common and uncommon issues, pinpointing causes and solutions. Specifications: Torque Specifications, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Values, Component Dimensions Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds). Diagnostics Level: Advanced, including detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures for complex electronic systems common in this era of BMW. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Searchable text for quick information retrieval. Print Quality Image Resolution: High resolution, suitable for printing sections or the entire manual. Diagrams Clarity: Clear, legible diagrams, schematics, and illustrations. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Product) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Product) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated V8 Engine Family: M60 Engine Code: M60B40 Displacement: 3982 cc (4.0 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 89.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 Valvetrain: DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder (32 valves total) Engine Block Material: Aluminum Cylinder Head Material: Aluminum Performance Horsepower: 282 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.) Torque: 295 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.) Fuel System Fuel Injection: Bosch Motronic DME (Digital Engine Electronics) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher) Fuel Tank Capacity: 80 liters (21.1 US gallons) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22 or 5HP30 for later models) Optional Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual (Rare, primarily for European markets or specific derivatives) Features Electronic Control: Electronic transmission control with selectable modes (e.g., Sport, Economy). Fluid Type: Dexron III (or equivalent ATF specifications as per manual) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 2,917 mm (114.8 in) Length: 4,960 mm (195.3 in) Width: 1,847 mm (72.7 in) Height: 1,400 mm (55.1 in) Front Track: 1,525 mm (59.9 in) Rear Track: 1,514 mm (59.6 in) Weights Curb Weight: 1,720 kg (3,792 lbs) approx. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 2,200 kg (4,850 lbs) approx. Payload Capacity: 480 kg (1,058 lbs) approx. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data: Limited official data from modern era standards, but known for robust safety cage and impact-absorbing crumple zones. Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Optional ASC (Automatic Stability Control) on some models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver-side airbag standard; passenger airbag optional or introduced later in production. Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front pre-tensioners. Construction: Reinforced safety cell, impact-absorbing steering column. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Premium factory stereo systems (e.g., Blaupunkt, Nakamichi options), CD changer availability. Navigation: Early GPS navigation systems were available as an expensive option, typically monochrome displays. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard electronic cruise control. Parking Aid: Rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC) became available towards the end of the E32's run. Connectivity On Board Computer: On-Board Computer (OBC) with functions like fuel consumption, range, exterior temperature, and system checks. Comfort Features Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control. Seats: Power-adjustable front seats with memory, heated seats, available orthopedic/comfort seats. Windows Mirrors: Power windows, power mirrors, heated mirrors, power sunroof. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations. Spark...
Premium factory stereo systems (e.g., Blaupunkt, Nakamichi options), CD changer availability.
Navigation:
Early GPS navigation systems were available as an expensive option, typically monochrome displays.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Aid:
Rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC) became available towards the end of the E32's run.
Connectivity
On Board Computer:
On-Board Computer (OBC) with functions like fuel consumption, range, exterior temperature, and system checks.
Comfort Features
Climate Control:
Dual-zone automatic climate control.
Seats:
Power-adjustable front seats with memory, heated seats, available orthopedic/comfort seats.
Windows Mirrors:
Power windows, power mirrors, heated mirrors, power sunroof.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 80,000 - 100,000 km (50,000 - 60,000 miles) for platinum plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 50,000 km (30,000 miles).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact viscosity and BMW LL-98 specification where applicable).
Engine Oil Capacity:
7.0 Liters (7.4 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue/Green coolant concentrate mixed with distilled water (50/50).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack; water pump seal leaks; thermostat housing leaks.
Engine M60:
Nikasil cylinder liner wear (early M60 engines, often a concern but not universal), VANOS unit issues (later M60), valve stem seal leaks, timing chain tensioner wear.
Electrical:
Corroded grounds, failing door lock actuators, climate control module issues, ABS sensor failures, headlight leveling system.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, strut mount failures, rear self-leveling suspension (SLS) issues (if equipped).
Fuel System:
Fuel pump failure, fuel injector leaks (though less common than later models).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) has a long history of producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles, known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine'.
Model Evolution
E32 Introduction:
The E32 chassis replaced the E23 generation 7 Series in 1986 (for the 1987 model year) and was produced until 1994. It introduced significant technological advancements.
740I Introduction:
The 740i variant, powered by the new M60 V8 engine, was introduced in 1992 as a successor to the 735i and a step below the V12 750iL.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing Plant, Germany
Total Production E32:
Over 300,000 units across all E32 variants.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Influential Cars:
Frequently cited as a benchmark in automotive engineering and luxury for its era.
Ratings
Car And Driver:
Consistently named to Car and Driver's Ten Best list for its segment during its production years.
Certifications
Bmw Quality:
Represents BMW's commitment to build quality and driver engagement in the luxury sedan market.