Power Distribution Charts:
Detailed diagrams of power flow throughout the vehicle's electrical systems.
Fuse Charts And Details:
Comprehensive listing of all fuses, their amperage ratings, circuit functions, and locations.
Ground Distribution:
Diagrams and explanations of all vehicle ground points and their functions.
Data Link Connector:
Information on the diagnostic connector (OBD-I/BMW proprietary) and its use.
Engine Control System:
Troubleshooting for critical engine management systems (DME) including sensors, actuators, and control modules.
Charging System:
Diagnosis of alternator, voltage regulator, and battery charging circuits.
Starting System:
Troubleshooting procedures for the starter motor, ignition switch, and related circuits.
Electronic Transmission Control:
Diagnosis and troubleshooting for the transmission control module (EGS) and related sensors/actuators.
Supplemental Restraint System:
Troubleshooting for airbags and seatbelt pre-tensioners (SRS), including sensor and module diagnostics.
Slip Control ABS:
Diagnosis of the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and potentially Traction Control (ASC+T).
Power Mirrors:
Troubleshooting for mirror adjustment and heating circuits.
Central Locking Module:
Diagnosis of the central locking system, including key fobs (if applicable for the year) and door lock actuators.
Power Windows:
Troubleshooting for window regulators, motors, and switch assemblies.
Power Seats:
Diagnosis of seat adjustment motors, switches, and memory functions.
Heated Seats:
Troubleshooting for seat heating elements and control modules.
Power Sun Roof:
Diagnosis of sunroof motor, switch, and mechanism operation.
Horn:
Troubleshooting for the horn circuit, including the horn button, relay, and horns themselves.
Wiper Washer Module:
Diagnosis of windshield wiper motors, park mechanism, and washer pump circuits.
Headlight Washer:
Troubleshooting for the headlight washer pump, nozzles, and activation circuits.
Windshield Washer Jet Heaters:
Diagnosis of heating elements for washer fluid jets.
Instrument Cluster:
Troubleshooting for gauges, warning lights, and the central information display.
Multi Function Clock:
Diagnosis of the clock and its associated functions (e.g., trip computer integration).
Light Switch Details:
Troubleshooting for the main light switch and its various illumination functions.
Headlights Fog Lights:
Diagnosis of headlight and fog light circuits, including bulbs, relays, and control modules.
Turn Hazard Lights:
Troubleshooting for turn signal and hazard light systems, including flasher units and indicators.
Park Tail Underhood Lights:
Diagnosis of parking lights, taillights, and interior underhood illumination.
License Plate Luggage Compartment Lights:
Troubleshooting for license plate illumination and trunk/luggage compartment lighting.
Back Up Lights:
Diagnosis of reverse light circuits.
Brake Lights:
Troubleshooting for brake light operation, including the brake light switch.
Interior Lights:
Diagnosis of dome lights, vanity mirror lights, and other interior illumination.
Glove Box Cassette Ashtry Lights Charging Socket:
Troubleshooting for minor interior lighting and power outlets.
Crash Control Module:
Diagnosis related to the crash data recorder or impact sensor systems.
Park Ventilation With Hkr:
Troubleshooting for parking ventilation systems and potentially heated catalytic converter (HKR) functions.
Rear Window Defogger:
Diagnosis of the rear defroster grid and its control circuit.
Integrated Climate Regulation:
Troubleshooting for the automatic climate control system, including HVAC blower, blend doors, and sensors.
Radio Cd Player:
Diagnosis of the audio system head unit and CD player.
Radio Hifi:
Troubleshooting for premium audio systems, amplifiers, and speaker circuits.
Cellular Telephone:
Diagnosis of integrated or aftermarket mobile phone systems.
Cruise Control Tempomat:
Troubleshooting for the cruise control system, including switches, actuators, and control modules.
Anti Theft System:
Diagnosis of the factory alarm and immobilizer systems.
On Board Computer:
Troubleshooting for the OBC functions, display, and input.
Component Location Charts And Views:
Visual guides and diagrams indicating the physical location of electrical components.
Splice Location Views:
Visual guides to wire splice locations for easier circuit tracing and repair.
Connector Views:
Detailed illustrations and pinout information for various electrical connectors.
Troubleshooting Methodology:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying electrical faults, including symptom-based troubleshooting.
Wiring Diagram Interpretation:
Guidance on understanding and utilizing complex wiring diagrams specific to the E31 chassis.
Fuse And Relay Testing:
Procedures for testing fuses, relays, and their associated circuits.
Component Testing:
Methods for testing individual electrical components such as sensors, motors, switches, and modules.
Circuit Tracing:
Techniques for tracing electrical circuits from power source to component and back to ground.
Depth Of Coverage:
Highly technical, focused on diagnosis and repair of electrical faults, assuming a working knowledge of automotive electrical systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, depending on usage and oil type (refer to specific E31 service bulletins).
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plug replacement, coolant flush, transmission fluid service recommended at intervals around 30,000-60,000 miles (Varies by engine and fluid type).
Engine Oil 840Ci:
API SJ/SL, ACEA A3/B3, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (e.g., Castrol EDGE)
Engine Oil 850Ci Csi:
API SJ/SL, ACEA A3/B3, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (V12 engines can be sensitive; consult BMW TIS)
Coolant:
BMW Blue or similar ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water), BMW Part # 83 51 9 407 765
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron III or equivalent, BMW Part # 83 22 9 407 871 (Consult specific transmission type for exact specs)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity dependent on temperature (e.g., SAE 75W-90)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (e.g., Pentosin Super DOT 4, BMW Part # 83 23 9 407 886)
Common Electrical Issues:
Failing ABS/ASC sensors, degraded wiring harnesses (especially in engine bay due to heat), faulty window regulators, door lock actuator failures, climate control module issues, OBC display pixelation.
Common Mechanical Issues:
Oil leaks from V8/V12 engines (valve cover, oil pan), cooling system component failure (water pump, hoses), catalytic converter issues, VANOS system (M60/M62) faults.