Positioning:
The BMW 5 Series E34 was positioned as a premium executive sedan, renowned for its driving dynamics, build quality, and sophisticated engineering.
Competitors:
Competed directly with luxury sedans from Mercedes-Benz (W124 E-Class), Audi (V8/A8), Lexus (LS), and Jaguar (XJ).
Defining Attributes:
Excellent handling, powerful inline-six engines, sophisticated independent suspension, luxurious interior appointments, and advanced (for its time) safety features.
Value For Owner:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics to perform maintenance and repairs accurately, saving costs compared to dealership service and ensuring proper vehicle upkeep.
Benefit:
Provides immediate access to critical repair information, eliminating shipping delays and costs.
Covered Years:
1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995
Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (M50B25), transmission, drivetrain, fuel system, exhaust system.
Chassis:
Suspension (front/rear), steering system, braking system (ABS included).
Electrical:
Complete electrical system diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting, charging, instrument cluster, ECUs.
Bodywork:
Body and chassis repair, body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC system.
Maintenance:
Routine service, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and testing procedures for all major systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repairs, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and electrical system diagnostics.
Scope:
Comprehensive repair and maintenance procedures for all major mechanical and electrical systems.
Diagrams:
Includes detailed wiring diagrams, exploded views, and component illustrations.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Horsepower:
189 hp (approx.) @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
245 Nm (approx. 181 lb-ft) @ 4700 rpm
System Type:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Requirement:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Management System:
Electronic Engine Control Unit (ECU)
Valve Timing:
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder.
Length:
Approx. 4720 mm (185.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 1751 mm (68.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1412 mm (55.6 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1500-1600 kg (3300-3500 lbs), depending on transmission and options.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in)
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 530 Liters (18.7 cu ft)
Safety Standards:
Designed to meet contemporary safety standards of its era.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models.
Airbags:
Driver airbag became standard during the E34's production run.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Audio System:
Optional premium sound systems from manufacturers like Nakamichi or Blaupunkt. Standard cassette player with AM/FM radio.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most models.
Onboard Computer:
Optional onboard computer (OBC) providing trip data, fuel consumption, and system checks.
HVAC System:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control).
Headlights:
Halogen headlights, with optional Xenon HID headlights available on late models/specific markets.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Transmission Fluid:
Manual: Check condition, change if contaminated. Automatic: Fluid and filter change every 50,000-80,000 miles (80,000-128,000 km) is recommended.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, 5W-40 or 10W-40, API SG or higher. Consult manual for specific BMW approvals (e.g., BMW Longlife-98).
Coolant:
BMW Blue/Green Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 specification.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW approved CHF 11S hydraulic fluid or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon ATF.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 rated gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III / Mercon ATF.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Water pump bearings can fail.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers are common due to age and mileage. Rear subframe mounts can wear.
Electrical:
Corroded ground points, failing ABS sensors, window regulator failures, and pixelation on the instrument cluster OBC display.
Fuel System:
Clogged fuel injectors, failing fuel pumps, and deteriorating fuel lines.
Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets. Vanos (variable valve timing) system issues on later M50 engines.
Visual Inspection:
Regular inspection for leaks (oil, coolant, brake fluid), worn belts, and hoses.
Air Filter Example:
Mann-Filter C 35154 / Mahle LX 75
Oil Filter Example:
Mann-Filter W 940 / Mahle OC 74
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, high-performance luxury vehicles.
E34 Development:
The E34 generation succeeded the E28 and introduced more aerodynamic styling, improved chassis dynamics, and expanded engine options. It was known for its robust engineering and longevity.
Production Period:
1987 (Europe) / 1989 (North America) - 1996 (Global Production)
Factories:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany, with some assembly in other BMW facilities worldwide.
E34 Replacement:
Succeeded by the BMW E39 5 Series.
Automotive Journalism:
Consistently praised by automotive publications for its driving refinement, handling, and build quality during its production cycle.
Reliability Perception:
While known for robust engineering, modern maintenance requires attention to detail for optimal reliability, especially concerning its age and potential for component wear.
