Engine:
M20B18 4-cylinder, 8-valve, fuel-injected
Fuel System:
Bosch LE-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition System
Cooling System:
Complete cooling system diagnosis and repair
Exhaust System:
Component replacement and repair
Transmission:
Getrag 5-speed Manual & Automatic (Optional)
Clutch:
Service and adjustment
Driveline:
Driveshafts, CV joints, rear differential
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, Rear multi-link, components and alignment
Steering:
Power steering system, components, and adjustment
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, Rear solid discs, ABS (Optional), system overhaul
Electrical System:
Charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed circuit diagrams for all systems
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair
Bodywork:
Panel removal/installation, trim, glass
Interior:
Seating, dashboard, upholstery
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, fluid checks
Engine Overhaul:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, including piston, ring, bearing, valve, and head gasket replacement
Transmission Repair:
Manual and automatic transmission overhaul and component replacement
Brake System Repair:
Caliper rebuild, disc/pad replacement, bleeding, ABS diagnostics
Suspension Component Replacement:
Struts, shocks, control arms, bushings
Electrical Component Testing:
Alternator, starter, fuel pump, sensors
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnosis of common and uncommon problems
Body Panel Alignment And Repair:
Minor dent repair, panel fitting
Tune Up Procedures:
Ignition timing, idle speed, fuel mixture adjustments
Climate Control Diagnostics:
Refrigerant system, blower motor, actuators
Depth:
Detailed, comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIYers
Diagnostic Codes:
Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable for the era's systems
Torque Specifications:
All critical fastener torque specifications included
Special Tools:
Lists any required special tools for specific procedures
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1795 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 81.0 mm
Horsepower:
115 PS (113 bhp; 85 kW) at 5800 rpm
Torque:
164 Nm (121 lb-ft) at 4500 rpm
Type:
Bosch LE-Jetronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 91 or higher recommended)
Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters
Coolant Type:
BMW recommended ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., G48)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.25 Liters (with filter)
Type:
Getrag 260 5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission
Manual Gear Ratios:
Included in manual
Automatic Features:
Sport/Economy modes (if equipped)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (e.g., ATF LT71141)
NHTSA Rating:
N/A for this era, but designed to high European standards
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Not typically available on 518i
Airbags:
Driver airbag not standard, optional in later E34 years
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel front seat belts, 3-point rear seat belts
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell with crumple zones
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, as per manual recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-25,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles) depending on plug type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
M20 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, which typically lasts the life of the engine but requires inspection for tensioner wear.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Coolant Leaks:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks and hose connections can degrade over time.
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Early models may experience fuel pump failures; preventative replacement is sometimes advised.
Suspected Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal are common leak points on the M20 engine.
E34 Specific Issues:
Subframe bushings, heater core failure, window regulator issues.
Brand Reputation:
BMW is renowned for producing driver-focused, high-performance luxury vehicles with exceptional build quality.
E34 Introduction:
The E34 generation of the 5 Series was introduced in 1988, replacing the successful E28 generation.
518I Positioning:
The 518i was the entry-level model in the E34 lineup, offering a more accessible entry point into BMW ownership.
E34 Facelift:
The E34 received a significant facelift in 1994.
Production Years:
E34 generation: 1988–1996
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary manufacturing in Dingolfing, Germany