Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Engine:
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Comprehensive coverage including maintenance, diagnostics, repair, and specifications.
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Control System:
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Engine control unit (ECU) and related sensors and actuators.
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Mechanical:
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Detailed mechanical components and their repair procedures.
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Fuel System:
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Fuel delivery, injection system, fuel pump, injectors, and pressure regulation.
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Emission Control:
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Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, and emission control systems.
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Intake Exhaust Cooling:
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Intake manifold, exhaust system, radiators, cooling fan, and coolant circuits.
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Lube:
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Lubrication system, oil pump, oil filter, and oil specifications.
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Ignition Starting Charging:
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Spark plugs, ignition coils, alternator, starter motor, and battery system.
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Auto Transmission:
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N/A for 1988 M5 E34 as it was exclusively manual.
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Manual Transmission:
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Detailed repair and maintenance for the 5-speed manual gearbox.
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Transfer Propeller Shaft:
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Driveshaft, universal joints, and associated components.
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Drive Shaft:
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Rear axle, differential, and half-shafts.
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Differential:
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Limited-slip differential (LSD) specific maintenance and repair.
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Axle Suspension:
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Front and rear suspension systems, including springs, dampers, control arms, and bushings.
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Tire Wheel:
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Wheel specifications, bolt patterns, tire pressure recommendations, and mounting procedures.
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Brake Control:
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ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair.
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Brake:
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Front and rear brake systems, including calipers, rotors, pads, and hydraulic lines.
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Parking Brake:
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Parking brake mechanism and adjustments.
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Steering Column:
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Steering column assembly, tilt, and telescoping mechanisms.
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Power Steering:
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Power steering pump, rack and pinion, fluid, and troubleshooting.
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Air Condition:
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HVAC system, refrigerant, compressor, and climate control unit.
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Suppl Restraint System:
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Airbag system diagnostics and component replacement (though 1988 M5 did not have airbags as standard).
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Seat Belt:
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Seat belt mechanisms and maintenance.
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Engine Immobilizer:
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Likely not applicable to the 1988 E34 M5.
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Cruise Control:
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Cruise control system operation, diagnosis, and repair.
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Wiper Washer:
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Windshield wiper and washer system components and troubleshooting.
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Door Lock:
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Central locking system, door lock mechanisms, and power windows.
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Meter Audio Visual:
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Instrument cluster, gauges, and original audio system (if applicable).
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Horn:
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Horn system operation and troubleshooting.
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Windshield Glass Mirror:
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Windshield replacement, glass sealing, and mirror adjustments.
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Instrument Panel:
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Instrument panel removal, component replacement, and illumination.
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Seat:
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Seat adjustment mechanisms and upholstery repair.
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Engine Hood Door:
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Hood, door, and trunk lid hinges, latches, and alignment.
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Exterior Interior:
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Body panels, trim, interior trim pieces, and detailing.
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Electrical:
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Complete electrical system diagnostics, component testing, and wiring diagrams.
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Multiplex Can Communication:
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Likely limited to older multiplex systems; CAN communication not present on this model.
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance:
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Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups.
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Diagnostics:
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Troubleshooting common and uncommon issues across all vehicle systems.
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Repair:
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Step-by-step repair procedures for all major and minor components.
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Rebuild:
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Engine, transmission, and differential rebuild instructions.
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Installation:
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Component installation and replacement guidance.
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Adjustment:
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Alignment, clutch, brake, and other system adjustments.
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Schematics:
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Detailed wiring schematics for all electrical systems.
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Factory-level, comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete overhaul and diagnostics.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Manual will specify precise intervals.
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Spark Plug Replacement:
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Around 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Manual will detail specific plug type and gap.
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Brake Fluid Flush:
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Every 2 years to maintain optimal performance and prevent corrosion.
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Coolant Flush:
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Every 2-3 years or as per manual recommendations.
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Timing Chain Inspection:
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The S38 uses a timing chain, generally considered a lifetime component but requires regular inspection for tension and guides. Manual will detail inspection intervals.
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Type Spec:
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BMW High Performance 15W-50 or a high-quality synthetic equivalent meeting BMW's specifications for the era.
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Coolant Type:
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BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant.
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Brake Fluid Type:
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DOT 4 brake fluid.
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Known Issues
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Common Wear Items:
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Bushings (suspension, subframe), cooling system components (hoses, water pump, thermostat), fuel injectors, fuel pump, door seal deterioration, VANOS issues (on later S38 variants, not applicable to the 1988 S38B36).
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Engine Specific Concerns:
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Potential for oil leaks, idle control issues, and camshaft wear if maintenance is neglected. The S38B36 is a robust engine, but requires diligent care.
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