The 1993 BMW E31 840Ci is a distinguished member of BMW’s 8 Series lineup, which epitomizes luxury and performance. Launched in the early 1990s, the E31 series represented BMW’s foray into the grand tourer (GT) segment, blending advanced technology, high-performance engineering, and opulent design. The 840Ci is powered by a 4.0-liter V8 engine that produces ~280 horsepower, providing a smooth yet exhilarating driving experience. Its sleek, aerodynamic design, pop-up headlights, and luxurious interior make it a standout model, offering a perfect blend of sporty aesthetics and comfort. Despite its age, the 1994 840Ci remains a sought-after classic, appreciated for its timeless design and engineering excellence. I also document the parts I’ve replaced on my E31 840Ci. I purchased it at 30 years old with 116,000 kilometers on the odometer. The car had not been driven for the past 12 years. The renovation started in November 2023 and is expected to finish in June 2024.
Problematic Areas of the 1993 BMW E31 840Ci
When considering the purchase of a 1993 BMW E31 840Ci, it’s important to be mindful of certain risk areas and common issues that may need attention. Below are key points to inspect before or after purchase and to address during servicing. Given that the car is over 30 years old, some wear and tear is to be expected.
Engine and Cooling System
Cooling System: The 840Ci’s cooling system is known to be a weak spot. Issues with the water pump, radiator, radiator cap, and cooling hoses are common. Look for signs of overheating and ensure the cooling system has been regularly maintained.
Oil Leaks: The M60 V8 engine can develop oil leaks, particularly around the valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets. Inspect for any signs of oil leakage.
Service Made and Replaced Parts: The car showed no signs of overheating. The cooling hoses, radiator cap, cooling liquid, and oil were replaced. However, the engine experienced noticeable vibrations, particularly when idle. Engine bushings were replaced. This major issue was resolved by replacing the engine’s electrical wiring harness, jumpers, oxygen, and knock sensors. There are still some noticeable vibrations when idle.
Shaft and Shaft Bushing
The E31 exhibited slight vibrations while driving, in addition to the engine vibrations. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the propeller shaft and the corresponding bushing were worn out.
Service Made and Replaced Parts: The propeller shaft was serviced, and the bushing was replaced.
Exhaust
Service Made and Replaced Parts: We went directly for the new original BMW E31 exhaust system without inspection.
Electrical System
Electronics and Wiring: The E31’s complex electrical system can develop faults, especially in the wiring harness and electronic control units (ECUs). Check for any electrical gremlins, such as malfunctioning lights, power windows, and instrument cluster issues.
Battery Drain: There have been reports of battery drain issues due to faulty electrical components or parasitic draws. Ensure the battery and alternator are in good condition.
Service Made and Replaced Parts: The car exhibited no electronics issues and wiring issues. However, most of the bulbs in the cockpit and gear-shifter indicator lacked sufficient contrast, so we replaced them with new original ones. Additionally, there were no problems with the two batteries.
Suspension and Steering
Suspension Components: The suspension system, including control arms, bushings, and shock absorbers, can wear out over time. Inspect for any unusual noises, vibrations, or uneven tire wear.
Steering: Pay attention to the steering system, particularly the power steering pump, and hoses, as leaks and wear can occur.
Service Made and Replaced Parts: The car showed no problem with the suspension.
Transmission
Automatic Transmission: The automatic transmission can be problematic if improperly maintained. Look for smooth shifting and check the transmission fluid condition. Regular fluid changes are essential for longevity.
Service Made and Replaced Parts: The gearbox oil was changed.
Body and Interior
Rust: Although the E31’s body is generally well-protected, check for any signs of rust, particularly around the wheel arches, door sills, and underbody.
Interior Wear: The luxurious interior can suffer from wear and tear, especially the leather seats, dashboard, and door panels. Ensure all interior features and controls are functioning correctly.
Service Made and Replaced Parts: There are points of rush and problematic areas that will be addressed. Of course, the interior shows some wear, which will also be addressed. The aged leather is nice, but it needs some touch-up and brushing. The hood cover and the rear cover (of the trunk) were worn out, and these were replaced with new material. The hood cover was done by Avtointerior in Sofia.
Braking System
Brake Components: Inspect the brake pads, rotors, and calipers for wear. Ensure the brake fluid has been regularly changed and the braking system is in good working order.
Brake Lines: Over time, brake lines can corrode and develop leaks. Inspect the brake lines for any signs of rust or damage and replace them if necessary to ensure safe and effective braking performance.
Service Made and Replaced Parts: The break system needed service, so the brake rotors and pads were replaced with the original ones, the brake lines were changed, and the brake fluid was also changed.
ELIA Auto in Sofia and Bimmer Motors (again in Sofia) did the car’s engine, suspension, brakes, and all other mechanical work.
Seats
The driver’s and front passenger seats would twist when moving backward and forward. Torn metal wires and tensioners caused this twisting.
Service Made and Replaced Parts: We resolved the issue by replacing the old wires with new custom-made metal tensioners and wires. Mikron Docev made the wires.
Paint and Rust
The car’s painted parts have points and spots of rust. This is now being approached.
Below, I am placing some links that will direct you to relevant car parts and information sources.
Smell of Petrol in the Cabin
Yes, we encountered that issue with this E31 840i. Since the car had been parked in a garage for over 10 years with presumably some old petrol left in the tank, we noticed odors from the cracked fuel pump cover and the worn-out gasket. The fresh fuel odors may have originated from the charcoal filter saturated with old petrol fumes.
BMW E31 840Ci Car Data
- External Color: Green, Barbados Green / Barbadosgrun Metallic, color code – 247; 396 cars produced between November 1991 and May 12, 1999.
- Interior Color: Barbadosgruen Colorline; upholstery group – Colorline (bi-color, green + black); Color Code: N1BD; Legacy Color Code: 0488; Legacy Color Name: Barbados Green Colorline; 239 produced; Color combination was offered from November 1991 until December 1998.
- Country: Switzerland, Type code EF61 (Automatic), Option code L804; 162 pieces of BMW 840Ci (M60) were imported to Switzerland out of all 1.352 E31s.
- Production year: 1994. 695 pieces of E31 840CiA (M60) were produced for the European market that year. In total 30,621 were produced and distributed Worldwide.
- Gearbox: Automatic gear – 840CiA (A – Automatic).
E31 Parts
- Hubauer Shop.de
- Baum-BMWShop24.de
- Lebmann24.de
- OctoClassic
- V12 Throttle custom parts
- LLLParts.co.uk (with part quantity required)
- Turner Motorsport
- Door handle gaskets (rubber) – left / right.
- Front: Edge protection / rockers covers
- Bimmerworld
- Epytec
Repair Guides
Information
- 8er Registry | Barbados Green Information
- E31 net
- PartSouq – Parts Information, USA
- E31 Club, DE
- 8-series Club, DE
- AA Canada
- Classic Cars for Sale
- Back to service video
- A restoration close to madness
- E30.ch
Saved Docs
The 1993 BMW E31 840Ci is a remarkable car with a rich heritage, but like any classic vehicle, it requires careful inspection and maintenance. By paying attention to these specific risk areas and common problems, potential buyers can ensure they make an informed decision and enjoy the exceptional driving experience this iconic grand tourer offers.
List of Engine and Mechanical repairs and parts changed
List of changed parts and services done on the BMW E31, 840i:
- Idle control valve
- Crankcase ventilation valve
- Propeller shaft repair
- Radiator seals
- Injector seals x 8
- O-rings
- Intake manifold bushings x 10
- Intake manifold gaskets x 4
- Water pump gasket
- Knock sensors x 4
- Fuel injectors x 8
- Spark plugs x 8
- Oxygen sensors x 2
- Engine mounts
- Fuel filters x 2
- Fuel pump seal
- Front and rear hood struts
- Transmission and differential oil
- Brake hoses and brake fluid
- Brake discs and pads
- Automatic transmission filter
- Engine oil
- Antifreeze
- Ignition coils x 8
- Exhaust pipes
- Front stabilizer links
- Activated Charcoal Filter (tank)
- Various rubber insulation for the coupe
- Rear suspension: Pendelstütze – 33 55 1 137 766, Gummilager – 33 32 1 090 452, Stützlager – 33 52 1 091 605, Schutzrohr – 33 52 1 134 044, Zusatzdämpfer hinten – 33 53 1 134 043, Stossdämpfer hinten – 33 52 1 139 717, Gummilager – 33 32 1 133 879, Kugelgelenk – 33 32 1 137 819, Querlenker – 33 32 1 138 015, Gummilager Stahl – 31 12 1 124 622, Gummilager – 33 31 1 133 839, Gummilager – 33 31 1 133 838, Gummilager – 33 17 1 090 365
