Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, timing, valve train, lubrication, cooling.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine sensors, ECU diagnostics.
Emission Control:
Catalytic converter, O2 sensors, EVAP system, EGR system, emission-related diagnostics.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter, fuel tank, EFI operation.
Clutch System:
Clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing, clutch hydraulics (for manual transmission).
Manual Transaxle:
Gearbox disassembly, assembly, internal components, shift mechanism, lubrication.
Automatic Transaxle:
Transmission overhaul, valve body, torque converter, solenoids, electronic controls, fluid service.
Driveshaft Axle:
Driveshaft universal joints, CV joints, differential, wheel bearings.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, alignment specifications.
Steering System:
Steering rack, power steering pump, tie rods, steering column, alignment.
Restraint System:
Airbag system (SRS) diagnosis and components, seat belts, pre-tensioners.
Brake System:
Disc brakes (front and rear), ABS system, brake fluid, caliper overhaul, rotor replacement, parking brake.
Body Interior Exterior:
Body panel removal and installation, trim pieces, doors, hood, trunk, interior components, glass.
Body Electrical:
Lighting system, power windows, central locking, mirrors, dashboard instruments, fuse box diagrams.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, refrigerant, blower motor, climate control unit.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for various systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD) information, scan tool procedures, interpretation of fault codes.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnosis, and body repairs.
Detail Level:
Includes diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and detailed specifications.
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual (ZF S5D 310Z) or 4-speed automatic (GM 4L30-E, later ZF 5HP30 on some models, though 4L30-E is more common for this specific year/engine)
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in manual (e.g., 1st: 4.235, 2nd: 2.526, 3rd: 1.669, 4th: 1.208, 5th: 1.000, Reverse: 3.553)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic control, adaptive shift programs (if applicable).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (refer to manual for precise specification)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (GM 4L30-E) or ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 (ZF 5HP30), refer to manual for exact specification.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended around 60,000 miles for iridium plugs, earlier for conventional plugs. Manual will specify exact interval and plug type.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic, or as per manual for manual. Early M60 engines with automatic transmissions had 'fill for life' transmissions that often benefited from fluid changes.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for recommended viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-40) and API classification. BMW recommends LL-01 or similar synthetic oils for optimal performance.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Common E34 Issues:
Cooling system (water pump, hoses, thermostat), VANOS seals (though the M60 in the 540i does not have VANOS), oil pan gasket leaks, door handle bushings, fuel pump, idle control valve issues. The manual will provide detailed troubleshooting for these.
Oil Filter:
Specific BMW part number will be listed in the manual (e.g., Mann-Filter HU834 or equivalent).
Air Filter:
Specific BMW part number will be listed in the manual (e.g., Mann-Filter C35131 or equivalent).