🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Generation Code:

E34

Model Year:

1990

Chassis Code:

E34

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Sedan

Segment Description:

The E34 5 Series represented BMW's offering in the competitive executive sedan market, known for its blend of luxury, performance, and advanced engineering for its era.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8, Lexus LS 400, Jaguar XJ.

Design Philosophy:

Classic BMW proportions, driver-focused cockpit, advanced chassis dynamics for the time.

Engineering Focus:

Emphasis on driving dynamics, engine refinement, and build quality.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Variants Covered:

All engine variants for the 1990 E34 models

Transmission Variants Covered:

All transmission variants (manual and automatic)

Trim Levels Covered:

All trim levels for the 1990 model year

Estimated Page Count:

High (Detailed technical content typically exceeds 1000 pages for a comprehensive workshop manual)

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing components, lubrication system.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection systems (Bosch Motronic variants), ignition systems, emissions control, engine sensors, ECUs, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan, coolant specifications, pressure testing.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, oxygen sensors.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox assembly, shifting mechanisms, driveshafts, U-joints, clutch fluid.

Transmission Automatic:

Gearbox assembly, valve body, torque converter, transmission control unit (TCU), ATF specifications, cooler lines.

Drivetrain:

Differential, axles, CV joints, wheel bearings.

Suspension Front:

MacPherson struts, control arms, bushings, anti-roll bar, steering knuckle.

Suspension Rear:

Multi-link suspension (specific E34 design), trailing arms, control arms, bushings, shock absorbers, springs.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, pump, hoses, tie rods, steering column.

Brakes Front:

Disc brakes, calipers, pads, rotors, ABS components.

Brakes Rear:

Disc brakes, calipers, pads, rotors, ABS components.

Anti Lock Braking System:

ABS control module, wheel speed sensors, hydraulic unit, diagnostic procedures.

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, trim, glass, sunroof, hinges, latches.

Body Interior:

Seats, dashboard, door panels, headliner, carpeting, trim pieces, climate controls.

Electrical System General:

Battery, alternator, starter, wiring harnesses, fuses, relays, grounding.

Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, fog lights, bulb types and replacement.

Instrument Panel:

Gauges, warning lights, check control system, OBC (On-Board Computer).

Comfort Systems:

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), power windows, power locks, power seats, central locking.

Safety Systems:

Seat belts, SRS airbag system (if equipped for 1990), central locking.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed schedules for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt inspections.

Engine Repair:

Complete engine overhaul procedures, head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, bearing inspection/replacement.

Transmission Repair:

Manual transmission rebuild, automatic transmission service and overhaul, torque converter replacement.

Brake Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper servicing, brake fluid bleeding, ABS component testing.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Component replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, tie rods), alignment specifications, power steering fluid flush.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting flowcharts for common electrical faults, component testing.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic codes, symptom-based problem diagnosis.

Bodywork And Paint:

Minor body repair procedures, panel alignment, glass replacement guidance.

Air Conditioning Service:

Refrigerant handling, system component replacement, leak detection.

Diagnostic Tools And Equipment:

Information on specialized tools and diagnostic equipment required for repairs.

Depth:

Comprehensive (Covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and electrical schematics).

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable:

Likely searchable text within the PDF

Resolution:

High resolution, suitable for printing

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1990:

Inline-4 (M40), Inline-6 (M20, M30, later M50), V8 (M60 - introduced later in E34 generation, likely not for early 1990 models but covered in general E34 manuals).

Notable Engines E34 1990:

520i (M20B20), 525i (M20B25 or M50B25), 530i (M30B30), 535i (M30B35).

Typical Horsepower Range:

129 hp (520i) to 208 hp (535i)

Typical Torque Range:

134 lb-ft (520i) to 224 lb-ft (535i)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Ignition Type:

Distributorless ignition (DIS) on later M50 engines, conventional distributor on M20/M30.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed manual transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP22)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Sport mode (on some variants), electronically controlled.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (specific viscosity depends on temperature, e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent (e.g., ZF Lifeguardfluid)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 189.5 inches (4815 mm)

Width:

Approximately 70.5 inches (1790 mm)

Height:

Approximately 55.9 inches (1420 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 111.5 inches (2835 mm)

Curb Weight:

Varies by engine and options, typically 3300-3700 lbs (1500-1680 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Information:

Limited formal crash test data available for this era's models compared to modern standards, but generally considered robust construction.

ABS:

Standard on most 1990 E34 models

Traction Control:

Optional on some higher-end models (ASC+T)

Airbags:

Driver airbag optional or standard depending on market and trim for 1990. Passenger airbag not typically standard.

Seat Belts:

3-point front and rear seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory radio cassette player, optional CD changer.

Display Technology:

Basic instrument cluster with analog gauges. Optional On-Board Computer (OBC) with small LCD display.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional depending on trim.

Exterior Mirrors:

Power-adjustable mirrors, heated mirrors (optional).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used.

Spark Plug Replacement:

30,000 miles for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium (if applicable).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Every 60,000-100,000 miles. Automatic: Every 30,000-60,000 miles (highly recommended).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, viscosity 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-40 or 10W-30 depending on temperature (refer to manual for exact specs).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, BMW antifreeze or equivalent (blue or green).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation).

Common E34 Problems:

Cooling system leaks (plastic expansion tank, hoses), VANOS rattle (on M50/M52 engines, not standard on 1990 M50), subframe bushings, oil pan gasket leaks, door seal degradation, rust on rear quarter panels/rockers, fuel pump failures, ABS sensor issues.

Oil Pan Gasket:

Common leak point, requires dropping oil pan for replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for performance sedans and sporty driving dynamics dating back to its inception.

E34 Introduction:

The E34 generation succeeded the E28 5 Series and was produced from 1988 to 1996. The 1990 model year represents an early phase of this generation.

E34 Design Influence:

Styled by Ercole Spada, the E34 continued BMW's design language with a focus on aerodynamics and clean lines.

Production Years E34:

1988-1996

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany, with some production in South Africa and other locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journal Accolades:

While specific awards for the 1990 model might be scarce in public record, the E34 generation was consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and sophisticated design.

Market Perception:

Considered a benchmark in its class for sporty handling and driver engagement.