🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5-Series

Model Code:

E34

Production Years Covered:

1989-1995

Chassis Codes:

E34

👋 Introduction

Description:

The E34 5-Series represented BMW's commitment to luxury sport sedans and wagons in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It was a direct competitor to Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi V8/A6, offering superior driving dynamics and a more driver-focused experience.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi Typ 44/C3 (V8/A6), Jaguar XJ, Lexus LS400 (later in the generation).

Design:

Introduced a more aerodynamic and modern design language for BMW. Iconic kidney grille and Hofmeister kink remained.

Technology:

Featured advancements like self-leveling suspension, adaptive transmission control, onboard computer (OBC), and early electronic engine management (DME).

Performance:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and powerful inline-six and V8 engines, delivering a signature BMW driving experience.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Regions:

North America (USA, Canada), Europe

Model Variants Covered:

Sedan (E34), Touring (E34)

Estimated Pages:

2500+

Type:

Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

All gasoline and diesel variants including M20, M30, M50, M60, M70, and M51 engines. Includes engine overhaul, diagnostics, performance tuning, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems.

Transmission:

Manual (Getrag 260, Getrag 265) and Automatic (ZF 4HP22, ZF 4HP24, ZF 5HP18, ZF 5HP30) transmissions. Includes overhaul, repair, diagnostics, fluid specifications, and electronic control units.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD/xDrive) systems. Includes differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, and associated components.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems. Includes MacPherson struts, independent rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, ball joints, and power steering system.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes (ventilated and solid), ABS system (Bosch ABS II, III), parking brake, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, and component replacement.

Electrical:

Complete electrical system. Includes wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems, instrument cluster, comfort electronics (power windows, locks, mirrors, seats), climate control, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), DME (Digital Motor Electronics), EML (Electronic Engine Control), and ABS control units.

Body:

Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, sunroof, body repair, corrosion protection, paint codes, and interior trim.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. Includes R134a refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control modules, and diagnosis.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance schedules, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, belt inspections/replacements, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues. Includes symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical schematic interpretation, and fault code diagnosis.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems. Includes engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilding, electrical component repair, and body panel repair.

Installation:

Instructions for installation of common replacement parts and accessories.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for engine management, transmission control, ABS, climate control, and other electronic systems. Includes use of diagnostic tools and reading sensor data.

Depth:

Expert-level. Covers complete vehicle teardown and reassembly, advanced troubleshooting, wiring diagram interpretation, and precise technical specifications for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Resolution:

High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Diagrams:

Includes detailed exploded views, wiring diagrams, and schematics.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes Gasoline:

M20B25 (2.5L), M30B35 (3.5L), M50B25 (2.5L DOHC), M50B30 (3.0L DOHC), M60B30 (3.0L V8), M60B40 (4.0L V8), M70B50 (5.0L V12)

Engine Codes Diesel:

M51D25 (2.5L Turbo Diesel)

Horsepower Range:

170 hp (2.5L) to 310 hp (5.0L V12)

Torque Range:

220 Nm (2.5L) to 470 Nm (5.0L V12)

Injection Type:

Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (premium recommended), Diesel for M51

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent

Coolant Capacity Approx:

8-12 Liters (depending on engine)

Oil Type Gasoline:

SAE 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-40, 15W-40 (refer to manual for specific engine)

Oil Capacity Approx:

5-7 Liters (depending on engine)

Catalytic Converter:

Standard on all gasoline models

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Common:

5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic

Transmission Type Advanced:

5-speed automatic (ZF 5HP18/30), AWD (xDrive) with automatic transmission

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

Automatic Transmission Control:

Electronic control for shift points and modes (e.g., Sport, Economy)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF Dexron III or equivalent (ZF specific fluids may apply)

📐 Dimensions

Length Sedan Approx:

4730-4770 mm (186.2-187.8 in)

Width Approx:

1750-1790 mm (68.9-70.5 in)

Height Sedan Approx:

1380-1410 mm (54.3-55.5 in)

Wheelbase Approx:

2760-2830 mm (108.7-111.4 in)

Trunk Volume Sedan Approx:

460-530 Liters (16.2-18.7 cu ft)

Curb Weight Approx Kg:

1500-1800 kg (3300-3970 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Not readily available for this era, but designed to high European standards.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard or optional depending on year/trim

Traction Control:

ASR (Automatic Stability Control) optional on some models

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag optional initially, became standard later in the generation.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts, pre-tensioners for front belts on later models.

Chassis Construction:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones, side-impact protection beams.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional premium sound systems by Nakamichi or Blaupunkt, cassette player, AM/FM radio.

Navigation:

Early GPS navigation systems available as expensive options on later models.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Parking Sensors:

Not available.

Bluetooth:

Not available.

Seats:

Power adjustable front seats with memory, heated seats optional.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control with cabin air filter.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic: 50,000-80,000 miles. Manual: As needed, often inspected at 100,000 miles.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-40,000 miles

Spark Plug Replacement:

30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., platinum)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II/III or BMW-specific PSF

Engine Common:

Head gasket leaks (especially M30/M50), oil pan leaks, VANOS issues (on M50TU/M52), cooling system leaks (plastic components), CCV valve failures (M50/M52).

Electrical Common:

EFI harness degradation, ABS sensor failures, blower motor resistor failure, door handle microswitches, instrument cluster failures (pixelation), OBC module issues.

Suspension Common:

Worn control arm bushings, strut mounts, rear subframe bushings (especially on AWD models), ball joint wear, driveshaft flex disc failure.

Body Common:

Rust (wheel wells, rocker panels, trunk lid), door seal degradation, sunroof drain clogs.

Oil Filter Example:

Mann-Filter W940/24, Mahle OX162

Air Filter Example:

Mann-Filter C35155

Thermostat Example:

Wahler 4201.92D (for M50)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

BMW's heritage is built on producing 'Ultimate Driving Machines,' emphasizing performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.

Predecessor:

E28 5-Series

Successor:

E39 5-Series

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing), South Africa, Mexico, Austria

Production Years:

1988-1996

Notable Variants:

M5 (E34), 540i (M60 V8), 535i (M30/M50), 525i (M20/M50), 530i (M60), 530i V8, M5 Touring (rare, for Europe)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver:

Car and Driver Ten Best list multiple times during its production run.

Reliability Reputation:

Generally considered reliable with proper maintenance, though electrical and cooling system components can be prone to wear.

European Safety Standards:

Designed and built to meet stringent European safety and emissions standards of the era.