Segment:
Executive Sedan / Luxury Mid-Size Car
Bmw Positioning:
The E34 represented BMW's commitment to driving dynamics, build quality, and sophisticated engineering in the executive car segment.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/A6 (C3/C4), Lexus LS 400 (late models).
Design Philosophy:
Sleek, aerodynamic design with BMW's signature kidney grille, a focus on driver engagement and refined comfort.
Powertrain Options:
Renowned inline-six engines, offering a balance of performance and smoothness, with V8 options later in the production run.
Chassis Dynamics:
Excellent handling characteristics thanks to sophisticated multi-link suspension and rear-wheel drive (xDrive available in some markets/models).
Build Quality:
Exceptional German engineering and build quality, contributing to longevity and a premium feel.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing components, lubrication system.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection systems (Motronic), ignition systems, emissions control, sensors, actuators, ECU troubleshooting.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shift mechanisms, internal components.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (e.g., ZF) overhaul, torque converter, valve body, hydraulic controls, electronic management.
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, universal joints, CV joints, differential, rear axle assembly.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, anti-roll bars.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, pump, tie rods, steering column.
Brakes:
Brake system components, master cylinder, calipers, pads, rotors, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, power windows, central locking, fuse box locations and function.
Bodywork And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hinges, latches, glass replacement, chassis repair.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, air conditioning, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant systems.
Interior:
Seat removal, dashboard disassembly, trim panel replacement.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension upgrades, brake system overhauls.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Diagnostics:
System-specific diagnostic flowcharts and testing procedures.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually all major and minor components.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Tightening torques, clearances, alignment specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic DIY maintenance to advanced workshop-level diagnostics and component rebuilds.
Engine Families:
M20 (4-cylinder, early models), M30 (6-cylinder, larger displacement), M50/M52 (6-cylinder, VANOS equipped, later models), M60 (V8).
Common Engines:
520i (M20B20, M50B20), 525i (M20B25, M50B25), 530i (M30B30, M60B30), 535i (M30B35), 540i (M60B40), M5 (S38B36, S38B38).
525I M50 Power:
189 hp @ 5900 rpm
525I M50 Torque:
245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 4700 rpm
535I M30 Power:
208 hp @ 5700 rpm
535I M30 Torque:
305 Nm (225 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm
M5 S38B38 Power:
315 hp @ 6900 rpm
M5 S38B38 Torque:
360 Nm (266 lb-ft) @ 4750 rpm
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), specifically Bosch Motronic variants.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per market/specifications, typically 91+ RON/87+ AKI)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 260/5, 260/6)
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 4HP22, 4HP24)
Rear Axle Ratio:
Varies by model and transmission (e.g., 3.46 for 525i manual, 3.15 for 535i manual).
Limited Slip Differential:
Available as an option on many models, particularly M Sport and performance variants.
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan (Saloon), 5-door Touring (Estate/Wagon).
Length:
Approx. 4715-4775 mm (Sedan), 4755-4805 mm (Touring).
Width:
Approx. 1750-1751 mm.
Height:
Approx. 1410-1440 mm (Sedan), 1450-1460 mm (Touring).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2760-2762 mm.
Trunk Volume Sedan:
Approx. 500 liters (17.6 cu ft).
Cargo Volume Touring:
Approx. 460-1560 liters (16.2-55.1 cu ft) with seats folded.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1500-1700 kg (depending on engine and options).
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Varies by model, typically around 2000-2150 kg.
Historical Safety Assessments:
While formal crash test ratings like modern NCAP were less standardized, BMW focused on structural integrity and passive safety features for its era.
ABS:
Standard on most models from the early 90s onwards, optional on earlier ones.
Traction Control:
Available as ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) on higher-end models and later production runs.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag became standard in the mid-90s; passenger airbag optional on some models.
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioned front seatbelts.
Chassis Design:
Reinforced passenger cell, energy-absorbing crumple zones.
Radio Options:
Various BMW branded radios and cassette players; Nakamichi and Harman Kardon premium sound systems available.
Navigation:
Early GPS navigation systems (e.g., BMW Professional Navigation) were available on late E34 models, often with trunk-mounted CD-ROM drives.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Parking Sensors:
Rarely fitted on the E34, not a common feature.
Bluetooth:
Not available from factory; aftermarket solutions are common for modern connectivity.
Aux Input:
Not standard; aftermarket adapters for cassette decks or head unit replacements are common.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil quality. BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) was introduced during this era.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Intervals vary by plug type and engine; often around 30,000 miles for standard plugs and up to 60,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as recommended by BMW (BMW coolant specified).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Checked for leaks, no scheduled change usually. Automatic: Typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km), though often considered 'lifetime' by some, maintenance is recommended.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH or higher; Viscosity typically 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-40, 10W-60 depending on engine and climate. BMW Longlife-98 or Longlife-01 specifications for later models.
Coolant:
BMW Blue or Green antifreeze concentrate, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. BMW P/N 81 22 9 407 068.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II/III or Pentosin CHF 11S (depending on system). Check specific model.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Water pump seals and thermostat housings can leak.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and oil filter housing gaskets are common leak points due to age and material degradation.
Suspension Wear:
Control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are wear items that affect steering and ride quality.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corroded grounds, failing climate control modules (IHKA), and worn window regulators are common.
Exhaust Systems:
Catalytic converters can fail, and exhaust hangers/mounts can corrode and break.
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Original fuel pumps can become weak or fail over time.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, high-performance sedans with a focus on quality and engineering.
Predecessor:
BMW 5 Series E28.
Successor:
BMW 5 Series E39.
Design And Development:
Designed by Claus Luthe, the E34 marked a significant update in aerodynamics and styling, moving towards a more modern and integrated look.
Production Period:
1987-1996.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also assembled in Mexico, South Africa, and Thailand.
Production Volume:
Over 1.3 million units produced across all variants.
