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BMW E32 Owner's Handbook
©Copyright 2004 Odd-Jarle Kristoffersen
http://ow.no/
Compiled to Acrobat Format by Odd-Jarle Kristoffersen
Based on scanned materials from Paul Dean @ The UK Register
Please visit
http://ow.no/
for BMW E32 Tech Tips

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Summarization of Contents

Important Information for Your Safety
Safety Guidelines
Essential safety warnings for using parts and accessories approved by BMW.
Fuel and Refueling
Adding Fuel
Instructions on how to open and close the fuel filler cap for refueling.
Fuel Grades
Specifications for permissible fuel types for catalyst and non-catalyst cars.
Further Checks
List of regular checks for vehicle fluids and lights.
Controls and Locking Systems
Main Controls
Identification and location of primary vehicle controls on the dashboard.
Keys
Description of master key, spare key, and door/ignition key functions.
Central Locking System
Operation, activation, deactivation, and emergency procedures.
Driver's Door Lock Heater
Functionality of the heated lock for the driver's door.
Luggage Compartment Operation
Luggage Compartment
Details on central locking, locking, and lighting for the luggage compartment.
Safety Locking for Luggage Compartment
Special locking mechanism for enhanced security.
Childproof Rear Door Locks
Mechanism to prevent rear door opening from inside.
Infrared Remote Control
Infrared Remote Control Operation
How to use the remote for central locking, alarm, and window control.
Battery Replacement
Steps for replacing the battery in the remote transmitter.
Transmitter Initialising
Procedure to initialize the remote transmitter after battery changes.
Changing the Key Blade
Instructions for transferring the key blade to a new transmitter.
Seat Adjustments and Memory
Seats
Manual adjustments for forward/back, angle, and height of seats.
Electric Front Seat Adjustment
Controls for electric seat angle, movement, height, and backrest.
Seat and Mirror Memory
Programming and selecting saved seat and mirror positions.
Front and Rear Head Restraints
Adjusting height and angle of head restraints.
Interior Adjustments and Safety Features
Electric Rear Seat and Rear Head Restraint Adjustment
Electric controls for rear seat and head restraint height.
Lumbar Support
Adjusting the seat back support for the lower spine.
Steering Column Adjustment
Adjusting the steering wheel position for reach and rake.
Seat Belts
Proper use, locking mechanism, and safety notes for seat belts.
Head Restraints
Correct positioning of head restraints behind the head.
Airbag and Mirrors
Airbag Restraint System
Description of the airbag system, its operation, and warning lights.
Mirrors
Operation of electric remote-control and automatic-dip mirrors.
Inside Mirror
Adjusting the inside mirror to reduce glare from headlights.
Sun Visors
Functionality and pivoting of sun visors.
Make-up Mirror with Light
Operation of the illuminated make-up mirror.
Automatic-dip Inside Mirror
Adjusting the sensitivity of the auto-dimming inside mirror.
Ignition, Lights, and Indicators
Ignition/Starter Switch and Steering Lock
Positions of the ignition switch and how to operate the steering lock.
Main Light Switch
Controls for side lights and low beam headlights.
Instrument Lighting
Adjusting the intensity of the dashboard illumination.
Instrument Cluster
Overview of gauges and warning lamps in the instrument panel.
Turn Indicator and High/Low Beam Lever
Operation of turn signals, parking lights, and headlight beams.
Wipers, Lights, and Indicators
Brief Operation of Turn Indicators
How to use turn signals for lane changes and roadside stops.
Parking Lights, Left or Right
Activating parking lights with the steering lock engaged.
Wash/Wipe System
Controls for wipers, windscreen wash, and headlight cleaning.
Horn
Location of horn activation buttons.
Distance Recorder
How to read and reset trip and total distance recorders.
Revolution Counter
Function and warning zone of the tachometer.
Energy Control
Indicator showing fuel consumption economy.
Gauges and Warning Lamps
Fuel Gauge
Indication of remaining fuel level and low fuel warning.
Coolant Temperature Gauge
Monitoring engine temperature and warning for overheating.
Service Indicator
Explanation of service reminders indicated by LEDs.
Telltale and Warning Lamps
Meanings of various warning lights for brakes, oil, battery, and systems.
Check Control System
Check Control
Display of vehicle faults and system messages.
Priority 1 Faults
Critical system faults requiring immediate attention.
Priority 2 Faults
Important system faults.
Priority 3 Faults
Less critical system faults.
General Information
Notes on Check Control operation and display functionality.
Lighting and Gearbox Operation
Front Fog Lights
Operation and telltale for front fog lights.
Rear Fog Lights
Operation and telltale for rear fog lights.
Heated Rear Window
Functionality and operation of the rear window defroster.
Hazard Warning Flashers
Operation of the hazard warning light system.
Handbrake
Operation of the parking brake and its telltale lamp.
Manual Gearbox
Operation of the manual transmission, including selecting reverse.
Automatic Transmission Systems
Automatic Transmission Selector Lever Positions
Description of P, R, N, D, 3, 2, 1 positions and their functions.
Electronic-Hydraulic Transmission Programs
Explanation of E (Economy), S (Sports), and M (Manual) shift programs.
Kickdown
How to activate maximum acceleration by pressing the accelerator pedal further.
Climate Control - Heating and Ventilation
Heating and Ventilation Controls
Description of controls for air distribution, temperature, and airflow.
Stratified Temperatures for Freedom from Fatigue
Achieving different temperatures for driver and passenger comfort.
Air Conditioning Operation
Air Conditioning Controls
Explanation of temperature selectors, airflow, and distribution programs.
Air Supply to All Outlets
Manual control of air distribution to all vents.
Air Distribution to Front and Rear Footwell Outlets Only
Specific air distribution mode for cooler weather.
Pushbutton for Automatic Recirculated-Air Control
Automatic air recirculation based on outside air quality.
Pushbutton for Recirculated-Air Operation
Manual activation of recirculated air for contaminated outside air.
Pushbutton for Air Conditioning
How to switch the air conditioning system on and off.
Pushbutton for Maximum Windscreen and Side Window Defrosting
Activating maximum defrosting for all windows.
Electronic Damping and Stability Control
Important Notes on Air Conditioning Operation
Tips for optimal functioning and maintenance of the AC system.
EDC - Electronic Damping Control
Adjusting damping settings between "Comfort" and "Sport".
ASC Automatic Stability Control
How ASC prevents wheel spin and maintains traction.
Interior Lighting and Clocks
Interior Light/Footwell Lights
Operation of interior and footwell lights, including automatic function.
Analog Clock
Setting and adjusting the analog clock.
Cigarette Lighter
Operation of the cigarette lighter and socket.
Glove Box
Opening, locking, and lighting for the glove box.
Other Storage Compartments
Locations of additional storage spaces in the car.
Electric Windows, Sun Blinds, and Seats
Electric Window Lifts
Operation of power windows, including one-touch function and safety switch.
Sliding/Vent Roof
Operation of the sunroof, including manual override.
Electric Seat Heating
Controls and operation of front and rear seat heating.
Electric Roller Sun Blind for Rear Window
Operation of the powered rear window sun blind.
Rear Centre Armrest
Accessing the storage compartment in the rear armrest.
Clock, Timer, and Heater Systems
Outside Temperature Display and Digital Clock
Displaying time, date, and outside temperature, including ice warning.
Memo Function
Setting an hourly reminder signal.
Time Switch for Independent Heater/Ventilation System
Programming on/off times for the auxiliary heater/ventilation.
Independent Heater/Ventilation System Operation
How the auxiliary heater and ventilation system functions.
On-Board Computer and Cruise Control
On-Board Computer
Overview of the on-board computer functions and display.
Automatic Cruise Control
How to set, adjust, resume, and switch off the cruise control system.
Park Distance Control
Operation of the parking assistance system using ultrasonic sensors.
On-Board Computer Data Input and Remote Control
On-Board Computer Data Input
Procedures for inputting data like time, date, and speed limits.
Remote Control Information Display
How remote control information appears on the instrument panel.
On-Board Computer Data Display and Input
Computer Data Input and Information Displays
Detailed guide on inputting and displaying various data like time, fuel, speed.
Notes on Input and Information Display
Important notes and tips for using the on-board computer functions.
Further On-Board Computer Information
Further Information on the On-Board Computer
Details on HR/DATE, CONSUM, RANGE, TEMP, TIMER, LIMIT, CODE functions.
Emergency Starting Procedure if Code is Forgotten
Steps to start the car if the immobiliser code is lost.
Security and Alarm Systems
Ski Bag
Instructions for using the ski bag for transport.
Acoustic-Signal Burglar Alarm
Operation of the alarm system, activation, and deactivation.
Alarm System with Additional Interior Protective Circuit and Tilt Alarm Sensor
Features of the advanced alarm system including tilt sensor.
Car Radio and Telephone
Car Radio Operation
Factors affecting radio reception quality and sound reproduction.
Hissing, Sizzling and Splashing Noises
Causes and remedies for interference in radio reception.
Severe Fade
Phenomenon causing distortion in radio reception.
Fluttering Noise
Causes of fluctuating radio signal strength.
Front-Rear Balance Control
Adjusting audio volume distribution between front and rear speakers.
Car Telephone
Notes on installing a car telephone system.
Engine Operation and Efficiency
Starting the Engine
Procedures for starting the engine, including cold weather tips.
Catalyst Models
Special considerations for cars with catalytic converters, including fuel.
Energy-Conscious Driving
Tips for optimizing fuel consumption through driving style.
Running In and Vehicle Maintenance
Running In
Guidelines for the initial break-in period of the engine and drivetrain.
Fuel Quality
Recommendations for fuel quality and avoiding engine knock.
Fuel Consumption
Information on how fuel consumption is measured and factors affecting it.
Additional Practical Tips
Advice on engine warm-up, cold weather driving, and general care.
Engine Compartment Components
Engine Compartment Lid
How to open and close the engine compartment lid.
Engine Compartment Light
Operation of the light inside the engine compartment.
Maker's Plate and Vehicle Identification Number
Location and importance of VIN and maker's plate for identification.
Principal Items in the Engine Compartment
Identification of key components within the engine bay.
Engine Oil and Fluid Checks
Principal Items in the Engine Compartment - BMW 750i/iL
Identification of components specific to the 750i/iL model.
Engine Oil Consumption
Typical oil consumption rates and factors influencing them.
Checking Engine Oil Level
Procedures for accurately checking the engine oil level.
Adding Engine Oil
How and when to add engine oil, and warnings about overfilling.
Engine Oil, Transmission, and Steering Fluid
Engine Oil Specifications
Recommended engine oil types and viscosity grades based on temperature.
Automatic Transmission: Checking Oil Level
Procedure for checking the automatic transmission fluid level.
Steering Hydraulics: Checking Oil Level
How to check the fluid level for power steering and hydraulics.
Power Steering and Self-Levelling Suspension: Checking Oil Level
Checking fluid levels for power steering and self-levelling suspension.
Brake Fluid and Coolant Level
Oil Tank for Brake Hydraulics, Power Steering and Self-Levelling Suspension
Location and maintenance of the fluid reservoir for these systems.
Brake Fluid Reservoir
Checking the brake fluid level and recommended fluid types.
Checking Coolant Level
Procedure for checking coolant level and adding coolant.
Cleaning System Fluid Reservoirs
Windscreen and Intensive Cleaning System Reservoirs
Capacity and filling instructions for washer and intensive cleaning fluid.
Reservoir for Headlight and Fog Light Cleaning System
Capacity and filling for headlight/fog light washer fluid.
Reservoir for Intensive Windscreen Cleaner - BMW 750i/iL
Specific reservoir details for intensive cleaner on 750i/iL.
Windscreen Washer Jets
Adjusting the direction of washer fluid jets for optimal cleaning.
Headlight and Fog Light Cleaning System Jets
Information on repositioning headlight/fog light washer jets.
Battery and Fuses
Battery
Battery maintenance, important notes, and removal procedure.
Important Notes Regarding Battery
Critical safety warnings and precautions when handling batteries.
Removing the Battery (Under Rear Seat)
Steps for safely removing and installing the car battery.
Fuses
Location of fuse box, how to replace blown fuses, and importance of correct rating.
Starting with a Flat Battery and Towing
Starting with a Flat Battery
Step-by-step guide on how to jump-start the car using another vehicle.
Toolkit
Location and contents of the vehicle's toolkit.
Warning Triangle
Legal requirements and storage of the warning triangle.
Towing Facilities
Information on towing eyes and recommended towing equipment.
Tow-Starting
Procedure for starting the car by towing (manual transmission only).
Towing Away
Guidelines for towing the vehicle, including automatic transmission precautions.
Vehicle Maintenance and Wheel Changing
After Repairing the Car
Important post-repair checks, like fluid levels and brake effort.
First Aid Box
Location and importance of the first aid kit.
Fire Extinguisher
Location and maintenance requirements for the fire extinguisher.
Wheel Changing
Steps for safely changing a flat tire, including using the jack and tools.
Car Jack and Wheel Stud Wrench
Location and use of the jack and wheel stud wrench.
Wheel Chock
Proper use of the wheel chock for safety during jacking.
Braking, Steering, and Wipers
Lockable Wheel Studs
How to use and store lockable wheel stud keys.
Brake System
Operation, warning lights, and system failures of the brake system.
Power Steering
Troubleshooting stiff steering and the effect of V-belts.
Self-Levelling Suspension
Warning lights and causes of defects in the self-levelling suspension.
Windscreen Wipers
How to replace wiper blades.
Sliding/Vent Roof
Operation of the sunroof, including manual override.
Lighting and Bulb Replacement
Changing Bulbs
General precautions and procedures for replacing vehicle bulbs.
Low Beam Headlights
Steps for replacing low beam headlight bulbs.
High Beam Headlights
Steps for replacing high beam headlight bulbs.
Parking and Side Lights
How to replace parking and side light bulbs.
Front Fog Lights
Procedure for replacing front fog light bulbs.
Front Turn Indicators
How to replace front turn indicator bulbs.
Side Turn Indicators
Procedure for replacing side turn indicator bulbs.
Rear Light Cluster
How to access and replace bulbs in the rear light cluster.
Interior and Luggage Compartment Lights, and Laying Up
Licence Plate Light
How to replace the license plate light bulb.
Footwell Lights
How to replace footwell light bulbs.
Interior Lights
Details on replacing bulbs for various interior lights.
Luggage Compartment Lights
How to replace luggage compartment light bulbs.
Engine Compartment Light
How to replace the engine compartment light bulb.
Laying Up Out of Use
Recommended maintenance for storing the car for extended periods.
Restoring Car to Use
Steps to prepare the car for use after a period of storage.
Winter Operation and Driving
Winter Operation
Precautions and advice for operating the car in winter conditions.
Winter Tyres
Importance of winter tyres, approved types, and speed ratings.
Winter Driving Hints
Tips for driving safely in winter conditions, including preparing the car.
Driving on Slippery Surfaces and Disc Brakes
Driving on a Slippery Surface
Techniques for safe driving on slippery roads, including steering and braking.
Useful Information on Disc Brakes
How disc brakes function, their performance, and potential issues.
Recommended Driving Procedure for Disc Brakes
Best practices for using disc brakes, including cleaning and preventing fade.
Tyres and Tyre Maintenance
What You Should Know About Tyres
Importance of correct tyre pressure, condition, and maintenance for safety.
Tyre Treads and Tyre Damage
Checking tyre tread depth, wear, and damage, and the risk of aquaplaning.
Wheels, Tyres, and Technical Modifications
Road Wheels and Tyres
Recommendations for approved road wheels and tyre sizes.
Approved BMW Road-Wheel and Tyre Sizes
Tables of approved tyre and wheel specifications for different models.
Technical Modifications to the Car
Advice on consulting BMW service before making technical modifications.
Trailer Towing and Suspension
Towing a Trailer
General advice and considerations for driving with a trailer.
Sports Suspension
How sports suspension affects trailer towing.
Self-Levelling Rear Suspension
Benefits of self-levelling suspension for trailer towing.
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
How the ABS system works to maintain stability and steerability during braking.
Driving a Car Equipped with ABS
How to operate a car with ABS and what to expect during its activation.
Stability Control and Car Care
Automatic Stability Control (ASC)
How ASC prevents wheel spin and improves traction during acceleration.
Multi-Disc Limited-Slip Differential
Function of the limited-slip differential for improved traction.
Care of the Car
General advice on maintaining the car's paintwork and body.
Car Washing and Paintwork Care
Washing the Car
Instructions for washing the car, both by hand and using automatic washes.
Minor Paint Damage
How to touch up minor paint damage and repair rust.
Annual Cleaning and Protection or Treatment
Recommended annual service for body and mechanical components.
Chromium-Plated and Polished Metal Parts
Care instructions for chrome and polished metal surfaces.
Alloy Wheels
Cleaning and maintenance of alloy wheels.
The Inside Surfaces of Windows
How to clean interior window surfaces to avoid smearing.
Interior Cleaning and Leather Care
Floor Mats and Carpets
Cleaning instructions for floor mats and interior carpets.
Care of Upholstery Fabrics
Maintaining the appearance and feel of fabric upholstery.
Seat Upholstery Fabrics
Managing static electricity and wear on seat fabrics.
Care of Leather
Proper cleaning and conditioning procedures for leather upholstery.
Water Buffalo Leather
Specific care instructions for water buffalo leather upholstery.
Engine Data and Dimensions
Engine Data, Fuel Consumption
Specifications for engine displacement, output, torque, and fuel consumption.
Dimensions and Weights
Vehicle dimensions, weights, axle loads, and trailer limits.
Performance Data and Technical Specifications
Performance
Acceleration and top speed figures for different models.
Technical Data
Gear ratios and electrical system specifications.
Filling Capacities
Filling Capacities
Table detailing fluid capacities for various vehicle systems.
Tyre Pressures and Maintenance
Tyre Pressures - Check Regularly for Your Own Safety
Importance of correct tyre pressure and how it affects stability and safety.
Spark Plugs
Specifications for spark plugs, including heat value and electrode gap.
V-Belts
Specifications for V-belts used for alternator, pumps, and AC.