🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: M6 Chassis Code: E24 Year: 1985 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Luxury Grand Tourer / Sports Coupe Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Porsche 911, Jaguar XJ-S, Mercedes-Benz SEC models Key Features Bmw Philosophy: Emphasizes performance, luxury, and engineering precision Manual Value Proposition Target Audience: BMW M6 E24 owners, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts Benefit: Saves time and money on repairs, empowers owners with knowledge, maintains vehicle integrity 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: 1985 BMW M6 (E24) all models and all repairs A-Z Diagnostic Coverage: Comprehensive diagnostics and troubleshooting Maintenance Coverage: Routine maintenance and scheduled servicing Repair Coverage: All mechanical, electrical, and bodywork repairs Page Count Estimated Pages: Extensive (specific page count not provided, but described as comprehensive) Manual Type Type: Factory Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Digital Format: PDF Digital Requirements: Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip File Characteristics: Printable, zoomable images Compatibility Operating Systems: Windows Vista (32/64), XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000; Mac compatible 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Complete engine service, rebuild, tuning, fuel system, intake, exhaust, cooling, lubrication Drivetrain: Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, transfer case, propeller shaft, drive shaft, differential, axles Suspension Steering: Front and rear suspension, steering column, power steering systems Brakes: Brake control system, hydraulic brakes, parking brake Electrical: Ignition, starting, charging system, wiring schematics, multiplex/CAN communication, instrument panel, lighting Comfort Convenience: Air conditioning, climate control, power windows, door locks, seat belts, supplementary restraint systems (SRS), cruise control, wipers and washers Body Interior: Exterior and interior trim, engine hood, doors, glass, mirrors, seats, body panels Emission Control: Emission control systems and specifications Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, tune-ups, belt inspections and replacement Diagnostic Procedures: Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for all major systems, troubleshooting guides Repair Procedures: Detailed, step-by-step repair instructions for all components and systems, including major overhauls and component replacements Wiring Schematics: Complete and detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems Adjustment Procedures: Precise adjustment procedures for engine components, brakes, steering, etc. Technical Depth Depth: Factory-level technical detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts Illustrations Illustration Quality: High-quality diagrams and illustrations for clarity 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Print Quality Printability: All pages are printable for workshop use Image Scalability: Images can be blown up and printed in enlarged copies Binding Type Binding: Digital (no physical binding) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: S38B35 Performance Displacement: 3.5 Liters (3453 cc) Configuration: Inline 6-cylinder Horsepower: Approx. 256 hp @ 6,300 rpm (DIN) Torque: Approx. 333 Nm (246 lb-ft) @ 4,500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline Cooling System Cooling Type: Water-cooled Lubrication Oil Type Specification: API SF or higher, viscosity 20W-50 recommended for many climates (refer to manual for precise specs) Engine Control ECU: Bosch Motronic 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-speed manual Getrag 280/5CS Optional Type: ZF 4-speed automatic (less common for M6) Features Clutch Type: Single dry plate, hydraulic actuation Fluid Specification Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW recommended gear oil (e.g., 75W-90 GL-5, refer to manual for specific part number/spec) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4,840 mm (190.6 in) Width: Approx. 1,798 mm (70.8 in) Height: Approx. 1,376 mm (54.2 in) Wheelbase: Approx. 2,765 mm (108.9 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1,700 kg (3,748 lbs) Gross Weight Rating: Approx. 2,130 kg (4,700 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data: Limited official crash test data available for this era; designed with structural integrity for the period. Passive Features Seat Belts: Three-point inertia-reel seat belts Restraints: Reinforced safety cage, energy-absorbing steering column, padded interior surfaces Active Features Brakes: Four-wheel disc brakes with ventilated front rotors ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Standard on M6 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory-installed premium sound system (e.g., Nakamichi or Bavaria C series), with options for cassette player Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control system Connectivity Multiplex Communication: Early forms of multiplexed wiring systems for certain functions 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to manual for specific driving conditions) Spark Plug Replacement: Typically 30,000 miles for correct specification plugs Coolant Flush: Every 2-3 years or as specified by BMW Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for precise specification and BMW part number) Power Steering Fluid: ATF Dexron II or BMW specified fluid Coolant Type: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water Known Issues Common Problems: Seat frame rust, fuel distributor seal leaks, headlight seal deterioration, clutch slave cylinder leaks, vanos issues (if applicable to specific engine variants, though S38 does not have VANOS), electronic control unit (ECU) failures, window regulator issues, rust in common E24 areas (wheel wells, rockers). Technical Specifications Valve...
Four-wheel disc brakes with ventilated front rotors
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Standard on M6
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory-installed premium sound system (e.g., Nakamichi or Bavaria C series), with options for cassette player
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system
Connectivity
Multiplex Communication:
Early forms of multiplexed wiring systems for certain functions
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to manual for specific driving conditions)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically 30,000 miles for correct specification plugs
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as specified by BMW
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for precise specification and BMW part number)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or BMW specified fluid
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Seat frame rust, fuel distributor seal leaks, headlight seal deterioration, clutch slave cylinder leaks, vanos issues (if applicable to specific engine variants, though S38 does not have VANOS), electronic control unit (ECU) failures, window regulator issues, rust in common E24 areas (wheel wells, rockers).
Technical Specifications
Valve Lash Adjustment:
Manual specifies cold valve lash adjustment procedures (refer to manual for exact clearances)
Idle Speed:
Refer to manual for exact RPM specifications under various conditions
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Motorsport:
Represents BMW's high-performance division, M GmbH, known for racing pedigree and enhanced road cars
Model Evolution
E24 Platform:
Based on the BMW 6 Series (E24) platform, a personal luxury coupe
M6 Development:
Developed as a homologation special for racing, particularly the European Group A Touring Car Championship
Production
Production Years:
E24 M6 produced from 1983-1989 (US model year 1983-1988)
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Press:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its performance, handling, and timeless design.