Positioning:
The BMW 535i and M535i (E34 and E28 respectively) represented the executive sedan segment, emphasizing performance, luxury, and driving dynamics.
Competitors:
Competed with Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ6, and high-end models from American manufacturers.
Performance Focus:
Renowned for potent inline-six engines and balanced chassis.
Driving Experience:
Offered a superior blend of comfort and sporting capability, a hallmark of BMW's engineering.
Target Audience:
BMW enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and owners looking for in-depth maintenance and repair knowledge.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing, valve train.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, sensors, actuators, ECU diagnostics.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, gear selection, driveshafts.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic gearbox overhaul, hydraulic control, torque converter, shift solenoids.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake systems, ABS (if equipped), hydraulic lines, master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pads.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, bushings, sway bars.
Steering System:
Power steering system, steering rack, pump, hoses, steering column.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, wipers, horn, power accessories.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant system.
Body And Interior:
Door mechanisms, glass, seats, trim panels, exterior body panels, corrosion protection.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, pump, lines, injectors, pressure regulator.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter (if applicable), muffler, pipes.
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, hoses, fan.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plugs, belt replacements.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, electrical circuit tracing, component testing.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components.
Overhaul:
Complete engine, transmission, and differential rebuild procedures.
Adjustment:
Valve adjustments, timing belt tension, clutch pedal adjustment, idle speed adjustment.
Installation Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing components such as alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel injectors.
Wheel Alignment:
Alignment specifications and procedures.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values.
Depth:
Comprehensive (covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics).
Diagnostic Codes:
Coverage of fault codes and diagnostic procedures for the engine management system.
Wiring Diagrams:
Inclusion of detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Transmission Fluid:
Manual: Inspect annually, change as needed (or every 50,000 miles). Automatic: Change fluid and filter every 30,000 - 50,000 miles.
Coolant Change:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Inspect at 30,000 miles, replace as needed (typically copper plugs last around 30k, platinum longer).
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Consult manual for exact specifications.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Engine Cooling System:
Plastic thermostat housings and coolant pipes can become brittle and leak over time. Water pump seals can fail.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump can fail, O-rings for injectors can leak, fuel accumulator wear.
Electrical System:
Alternator brushes wear, voltage regulator issues, fuse box corrosion, wiring harness degradation, especially around the engine bay.
Suspension And Steering:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, and steering rack leaks are common with age and mileage.
Interior Electronics:
Check control unit, OBC (On-Board Computer) functionality, power window regulators, door lock actuators.
