🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 8 Series Chassis Code: E31 Model Years Covered: 1989-1999 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Premium Grand Tourer, BMW's flagship coupe/convertible during its production run. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Porsche 928, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R129), Jaguar XJS, Aston Martin DB7. Key Features Design Philosophy: Long hood, short deck, muscular lines, advanced aerodynamics, luxurious interior. Target Audience: Discerning buyers seeking performance, luxury, and advanced engineering. Unique Selling Proposition Usp: Sophisticated V8 and V12 engines, advanced chassis technology (e.g., multi-link suspension), and distinct styling. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Service Repair Workshop Manual Language: English Format: PDF Download Delivery Method: Instant Email Download Link Page Count Page Count: Extensive (Specific count not provided, but implied to be comprehensive for A-Z repairs) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Diagnosis, repair, rebuild procedures for all E31 engine variants (V8, V12) Engine Electrical: Ignition system, fuel injection, engine management systems, sensors, actuators Transmission: Automatic and manual transmission service, diagnosis, and repair Drivetrain: Driveshafts, differentials, axles, and related components Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, steering column Brakes: Brake system diagnosis, repair, ABS, fluid service, component replacement Electrical System: Wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, power windows, mirrors, central locking Climate Control: HVAC system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling Body And Chassis: Body panel repair, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, convertible top (if applicable) Fuel System: Fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank service Exhaust System: Exhaust components, catalytic converters, mufflers Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine maintenance procedures, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting Repair: Step-by-step repair instructions for all major and minor components Rebuilding: Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds Restoration: Guidance for restoring various aspects of the vehicle Diagnostics: Access to professional technician-level diagnostic information Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering all diagnostic and repair procedures from A-Z Detail Level: Highly detailed, including printable diagrams 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Adobe PDF Compatibility: PC & MAC Computers (Windows 95-8, Mac OS) Print Quality Printability: Printable pages for specific repairs Binding Type Binding Type: Digital Download (no physical binding) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital) Software Requirements Required Software: Adobe Acrobat Reader or compatible PDF viewer ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Variants: M60B30 (3.0L V8), M60B40 (4.0L V8), M70B50 (5.0L V12), M73B54 (5.4L V12) Performance Horsepower Range: Approximately 215 hp (3.0L V8) to 322 hp (5.4L V12) Torque Range: Approximately 290 Nm (3.0L V8) to 490 Nm (5.4L V12) Fuel System Injection Type: Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection Technical Details Engine Layout: V8 and V12 configurations 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Options: 5-speed automatic (standard on most V12 models), 6-speed manual (available on V8 models) Optional Transmission Options: 4-speed automatic (early V8 models) Features Transmission Features: Adaptive electronic control for automatic transmissions 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: 2-door Coupe (C1) and 2-door Convertible (A2) Wheelbase: Approximately 2634 mm (103.7 in) Weights Curb Weight Range: Approximately 1700 kg (3750 lbs) to 1900 kg (4189 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Safety Ratings: While specific official crash test ratings from agencies like NHTSA or Euro NCAP for the E31 are not as readily available as for modern vehicles, BMW's engineering at the time prioritized occupant safety with features like reinforced A-pillars and high-strength steel construction. Active Features Active Safety Features: ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction Control) on later models. Passive Features Passive Safety Features: Driver and passenger airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, crumple zones. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment Systems: Early models featured cassette players and optional CD changers. Later models offered BMW's professional radio/navigation systems with larger displays and integrated features. Emphasis on premium audio systems. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: ASC+T (Traction Control), cruise control, parking sensors (on some later models). Connectivity Connectivity Features: Limited by modern standards, primarily focused on phone integration via optional BMW car phones in some markets. Other Technologies Other Innovations: Electronic Damper Control (EDC) on some models, electric steering column adjustment, heated seats, dual-zone climate control. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendations). Major Service Intervals: Spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, and other interval-based services typically recommended at 30,000-60,000 mile intervals. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: Refer to manual; typically SAE 0W-40 or 5W-30 synthetic oil for V8/V12 engines. Coolant: BMW G48 ethylene glycol coolant or equivalent (blue color). Brake Fluid: DOT 4 or DOT 5.1. Transmission Fluid Auto: BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent like Dexron III, but specific type is crucial and detailed in the manual). Transmission Fluid Manual: GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (specific viscosity depends on transmission). Known Issues Common Problems: Cooling system failures (water pump, radiator hoses),...
Approximately 215 hp (3.0L V8) to 322 hp (5.4L V12)
Torque Range:
Approximately 290 Nm (3.0L V8) to 490 Nm (5.4L V12)
Fuel System
Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection
Technical Details
Engine Layout:
V8 and V12 configurations
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Options:
5-speed automatic (standard on most V12 models), 6-speed manual (available on V8 models)
Optional
Transmission Options:
4-speed automatic (early V8 models)
Features
Transmission Features:
Adaptive electronic control for automatic transmissions
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
2-door Coupe (C1) and 2-door Convertible (A2)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2634 mm (103.7 in)
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 1700 kg (3750 lbs) to 1900 kg (4189 lbs)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Safety Ratings:
While specific official crash test ratings from agencies like NHTSA or Euro NCAP for the E31 are not as readily available as for modern vehicles, BMW's engineering at the time prioritized occupant safety with features like reinforced A-pillars and high-strength steel construction.
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction Control) on later models.
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and passenger airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, crumple zones.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment Systems:
Early models featured cassette players and optional CD changers. Later models offered BMW's professional radio/navigation systems with larger displays and integrated features. Emphasis on premium audio systems.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
ASC+T (Traction Control), cruise control, parking sensors (on some later models).
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards, primarily focused on phone integration via optional BMW car phones in some markets.
Other Technologies
Other Innovations:
Electronic Damper Control (EDC) on some models, electric steering column adjustment, heated seats, dual-zone climate control.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, and other interval-based services typically recommended at 30,000-60,000 mile intervals.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual; typically SAE 0W-40 or 5W-30 synthetic oil for V8/V12 engines.
Coolant:
BMW G48 ethylene glycol coolant or equivalent (blue color).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent like Dexron III, but specific type is crucial and detailed in the manual).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (specific viscosity depends on transmission).
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Cooling system failures (water pump, radiator hoses), VANOS system issues (on later M60/M62 derived engines), ABS/ASC sensor failures, window regulator failures, headlight motor issues, ignition coil failure (especially on V12), rear main seal leaks.
Maintenance Tips:
Regular oil changes, preventative replacement of cooling system components, and meticulous attention to electrical system health are crucial for E31 longevity.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
BMW's heritage in producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics.
Model Evolution
E31 Development:
Developed as a successor to the E24 6 Series, the E31 was a significant technological leap, incorporating V8 and V12 engines, a sophisticated multi-link suspension, and advanced electronics.
Production
Production Years:
1989-1999
Production Numbers:
Approximately 30,600 units worldwide, making it a relatively rare and collectible BMW.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Vehicle Reputation:
Often lauded for its sophisticated engineering, luxurious comfort, and powerful engines. Considered a modern classic by many automotive enthusiasts.
Ratings
Enthusiast Reviews:
Consistently praised for its timeless styling and grand touring capabilities.