🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series Saloon & Touring

Model Variant:

M5 (E34)

Product Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Product Format:

Downloadable

Product Delivery:

Instant Email Delivery

Chassis Code:

E34

Generation Designation:

E34

Generation Years:

1988-1996 (European market production, USA market 1989-1995)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW E34 5 Series represented BMW's foray into a more refined and luxurious mid-size executive sedan and wagon, challenging established luxury brands with superior driving dynamics and build quality.

Competitors:

Primary competitors included the Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8/A8, and Jaguar XJ.

Distinguishing Features:

The E34 was lauded for its balanced chassis, precise steering, refined inline-six engines (and powerful V8s), and excellent build quality, establishing a benchmark for sport sedans.

Diy Savings:

Enables owners to perform significant maintenance and repairs, leading to substantial cost savings compared to dealership labor rates.

Ease Of Use:

Features easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions and accompanying images to simplify complex repair procedures.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All 5 Series Saloon (Sedan) and Touring (Wagon) models, including M5 variants.

Engine Coverage:

All engine types and variants specific to the E34 generation.

Transmission Coverage:

All transmission types (manual and automatic) specific to the E34 generation.

Trim Level Coverage:

All trim levels and optional equipment packages.

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (Exact number not specified, but described as 'complete' and covering 'A-Z')

Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English (implied by product description and common industry practice for this market)

Digital Format:

PDF

Accessibility:

Printable (single page, chapter, or whole manual)

Device Compatibility:

PC, MAC, Tablets, Smartphones

Required Software:

Adobe Reader (Free Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for all E34 engine variants, including M50, M52, M60, and S38 engines.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection systems (Bosch Motronic variants), fuel pumps, injectors, fuel pressure regulators, fuel tank, and lines.

Ignition System:

Ignition coils, spark plugs, ignition timing, distributors (where applicable), and engine control module (DME) integration.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan clutch/electric fan, heater core, and troubleshooting coolant leaks.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, oxygen sensors, and emissions control systems.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch assembly, gearbox overhaul, gear shift linkage, and flywheel replacement.

Transmission Automatic:

Hydraulic control systems, torque converter, valve body, transmission fluid changes, and electronic control unit (DME/EGS) integration.

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, universal joints, CV joints, differential (rear axle), and axle shafts.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings), shock absorbers, springs, and anti-roll bars.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack/gearbox, tie rod ends, steering column, and steering wheel removal/installation.

Brakes Hydraulic:

Brake calipers, brake pads, brake rotors, master cylinder, brake lines, and brake fluid bleeding procedures.

Brakes ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) components, ABS control module, wheel speed sensors, and diagnostic procedures.

Electrical System General:

12V battery system, alternator, starter motor, fuses, relays, and wiring diagrams.

Lighting System:

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

Instrument Cluster:

Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, warning lights, and OBC (On-Board Computer) functions.

Body Exterior:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, mirrors, and glass replacement.

Body Interior:

Seat removal, dashboard trim, center console, door panels, headliner, and carpet replacement.

HVAC System:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, blower motor, A/C compressor, evaporator, condenser, and refrigerant handling.

Cruise Control:

System operation, components, and troubleshooting.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power locks, power mirrors, sunroof operation, and seat adjustment motors.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug changes, and belt inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and complex faults across all vehicle systems, with symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, reassembly, and installation.

Component Replacement:

Instructions for replacing wear items and major components.

Torque Specifications:

Essential torque values for critical fasteners across all systems.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle circuits.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes DTCs:

Information on interpreting OBD-I (and any early OBD-II specific codes for later models) and BMW-specific diagnostic codes.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for specialized BMW tools required for certain repairs.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic preventive maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Digital (PDF)

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Resolution:

High-resolution, suitable for clear printing of text and diagrams.

Binding:

Not Applicable (Downloadable PDF)

Paper Quality:

Not Applicable (Downloadable PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Types General:

Inline-4 (less common, primarily 4-cylinder models in some markets), Inline-6 (M20, M50, M52 families), V8 (M60 family), and Straight-6 (S38 for M5).

Common Inline 6:

M50B25 (2.5L, 189 hp), M52B28 (2.8L, 190 hp), M50B20 (2.0L, 148 hp).

Common V8:

M60B30 (3.0L, 215 hp), M60B40 (4.0L, 282 hp).

M5 Engine Performance:

M5 (E34) featured the S38B36 (3.6L, 315 hp) and later S38B38 (3.8L, 340 hp) inline-6 engines.

Injection Type:

Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (various versions depending on engine and year).

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (Octane Rating specified by BMW for each engine).

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition (DIS) or coil-on-plug systems in later models, powered by the DME.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 260/5, Getrag 280/5 for M5).

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 4HP22, ZF 4HP24 for V8/M5).

M5 Transmission Features:

M5 models exclusively featured a 5-speed manual transmission for enhanced driver engagement.

Manual Gearbox Fluid:

BMW recommends specific gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 GL-5, or specific BMW fluid grades, consult manual for exact spec).

Automatic Gearbox Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent ATF fluid (consult manual for exact specification).

📐 Dimensions

Saloon Length:

Approx. 4,710-4,730 mm (185.4-186.2 in).

Touring Length:

Approx. 4,770-4,780 mm (187.8-188.2 in).

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,760 mm (108.7 in).

Track Width Front:

Approx. 1,470-1,490 mm (57.9-58.7 in).

Track Width Rear:

Approx. 1,480-1,500 mm (58.3-59.1 in).

Curb Weight:

Varies by engine and body style, typically 1,500-1,700 kg (3,300-3,750 lbs) for Saloon, 1,600-1,800 kg (3,500-4,000 lbs) for Touring. M5 models are heavier.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Consult specific vehicle data plate, typically around 2,000-2,200 kg (4,400-4,850 lbs).

🛡️ Safety Features

E Safety Ratings:

While official crash test ratings from modern agencies are limited for this era, the E34 was designed with advanced safety features for its time, including a robust safety cell and energy-absorbing crumple zones.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models.

Traction Control:

Optional ASC (Automatic Stability Control) or ASC+T (with engine power reduction) on some models.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag became standard later in the E34's production run; optional for passenger side on some models.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts for all occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Original Infotainment:

Early models featured traditional radio/cassette players. Later models and options included BMW's Business and Professional CD radios, often with digital signal processing (DSP) audio systems.

Driver Assistance Systems:

ABS, optional Traction Control (ASC/ASC+T), and optional self-leveling suspension (on Touring models).

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; typically involved basic radio controls and optional car phone preparation. No modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity unless aftermarket additions are made.

Comfort Technology:

Optional features included dual-zone automatic climate control, heated seats, power-adjustable seats with memory, cruise control, and onboard computer (OBC).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type. BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system was introduced later, but older interval recommendations apply.

Coolant Change Interval:

Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) with appropriate coolant.

Brake Fluid Change Interval:

Every 2 years regardless of mileage due to moisture absorption.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Intervals vary by engine and plug type (e.g., 30,000 miles for standard plugs, up to 60,000 miles for platinum/long-life plugs).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-40, 5W-30, or 5W-40 synthetic oil (BMW Longlife-98 or BMW Longlife-01 specifications are preferred, consult manual for exact viscosity and approval).

Coolant Type:

Glysantin G48 (blue/green) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF (Dexron III) or specific BMW power steering fluid (LF-2).

Common Issues:

Cooling system component failure (radiator, water pump, hoses), head gasket leaks, VANOS system (on M50/M52 engines), oil leaks (valve cover, oil pan), window regulator failures, door seal degradation, fuel pump failure, ABS sensor issues.

M5 Specific Issues:

Clutch wear, differential seals, specific S38 engine maintenance (e.g., throttle body sync).

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's reputation for building driver-focused vehicles with excellent engineering and performance was solidified with the E34 generation.

E34 Launch:

Introduced in 1987 (Europe) as the successor to the E28, the E34 was designed by Boyke Boyer and featured a more aerodynamic and contemporary 'shark nose' styling.

Facelift:

A significant facelift occurred in 1994, introducing revised bumpers, side mouldings, headlights, taillights, and interior updates.

Touring Introduction:

The Touring (wagon) variant was introduced in 1991, expanding the 5 Series' versatility.

M5 Development:

The E34 M5 is considered one of the definitive M cars, built with a hand-assembled S38 engine and upgraded chassis components, offering supercar performance in a practical sedan body.

Production Period:

1987-1996 (Europe), 1989-1995 (North America).

Manufacturing Sites:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

The E34 generation was critically acclaimed for its engineering and driving dynamics, receiving numerous accolades from automotive publications during its production run for performance, luxury, and value.

M5 Awards:

The E34 M5 is often cited in 'greatest cars' lists and was praised for its blend of supercar performance and everyday usability.