🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Model Variant:

518, 518i

Chassis Code:

E34

Model Years Covered:

1990, 1991

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Sedan (E-segment)

Target Audience:

Premium sedan buyers seeking comfort, performance, and build quality.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100, Jaguar XJ.

Bmw Philosophy:

Rear-wheel drive dynamics, driver-centric cockpit, refined engineering.

E34 Design:

Iconic Chris Bangle era design, aerodynamic, spacious interior, advanced for its time.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Regions:

Global (primarily Europe and North America)

Coverage Scope:

All styles and configurations of the 1990-1991 BMW 518 and 518i

Estimated Page Count:

700+

Type:

Complete Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Comprehensive coverage including M10B18 (carbureted and injected variants), troubleshooting, component removal/installation, overhaul procedures, timing, and diagnostics.

Fuel System:

Detailed information on fuel delivery, injection systems (Bosch L-Jetronic for 518i), carburetors (likely Solex for 518), fuel pump, injectors, and related diagnostics.

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications, and leak detection.

Ignition System:

Ignition coil, spark plugs, distributor (if applicable), timing adjustments, and troubleshooting.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter (if equipped), muffler, exhaust manifold, and gasket replacement.

Transmission Manual:

Operation, adjustment, clutch replacement, gearbox removal/installation, and fluid specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Operation, fluid types, capacity, filter replacement, and basic troubleshooting for the ZF automatic transmission.

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, rear axle, and wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, springs, shock absorbers, bushings, alignment specifications, and troubleshooting.

Steering System:

Power steering system, pump, rack and pinion, steering column, and related fluid.

Braking System:

Disc brakes (front and rear), ABS (if equipped), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, pad and rotor replacement, and troubleshooting.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, and accessory circuits.

Engine Management:

ECU diagnostics, sensor readings, fault codes (OBD I), and recalibration procedures.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, doors, windows, interior trim, corrosion prevention, and underbody components.

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:

HVAC system operation, blower motor, heater core, A/C system (refrigerant, compressor), and cabin air filter.

Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, brake inspection, tire rotation, and lubrication.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all major vehicle systems.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component repair and replacement, from minor adjustments to major overhauls.

Rebuilds:

Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds, including torque specifications and clearances.

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic flowcharts, testing procedures for sensors and actuators, and interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive, color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits.

Depth:

Professional-level technical detail suitable for DIY mechanics and professional technicians.

Specifications:

Precise torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical specifications.

Diagrams Illustrations:

Abundant exploded views, line drawings, and photographic illustrations to clarify procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Resolution:

High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Printability:

Printable in its entirety or selected pages.

Binding:

Not applicable (Digital PDF)

Paper Quality:

Not applicable (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 518:

M10B18 (carbureted variant)

Engine Code 518I:

M10B18 (Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection)

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1796 cc)

Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Horsepower 518:

Approx. 90 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque 518:

Approx. 140 Nm (103 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm

Horsepower 518I:

Approx. 99 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque 518I:

Approx. 142 Nm (105 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Injection System:

Bosch L-Jetronic (518i), Carburetor (Solex/Zenith) (518)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

4-speed Manual

Transmission Type Opt:

4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)

Rear Wheel Drive:

All models feature BMW's characteristic rear-wheel-drive layout.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4720 mm (185.8 in)

Width:

Approx. 1750 mm (68.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in)

Curb Weight Manual:

Approx. 1370 kg (3020 lbs)

Curb Weight Auto:

Approx. 1400 kg (3086 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Not specifically rated by NHTSA for this era; relied on Euro NCAP equivalent testing and internal BMW standards.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trims and potentially some 518i models.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for front and rear occupants.

Crumple Zones:

Designed with energy-absorbing crumple zones for enhanced crash protection.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM cassette stereo systems, often with optional premium sound packages (e.g., Bavaria C).

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control was available.

OBD I:

OBD I diagnostic port for engine management system diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or as needed.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 km (18,000 miles) for standard plugs, longer for platinum.

Engine Oil:

API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for specific climate recommendations). Capacity approx. 4.5 liters.

Coolant:

BMW Premium Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based with corrosion inhibitors). 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity approx. 8.5 liters.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4. Replace every 2 years.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Dexron III (or equivalent ATF). Capacity approx. 9.5 liters (total).

Common Problems:

Cooling system leaks (hoses, expansion tank), VANOS seal wear (on later M20/M30 engines, less common on M10), fuel distributor issues (518i), rust (wheel arches, rocker panels), electrical connector corrosion, headliner sagging, strut mount wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, high-quality luxury sedans.

E34 Introduction:

The E34 generation replaced the E28 and was produced from 1988 to 1996, establishing new benchmarks for luxury and engineering in its class.

518 Positioning:

The 518 and 518i models represented the entry-level variants of the E34 5 Series, offering BMW quality at a more accessible price point.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E34 Reputation:

The E34 generation was widely praised for its chassis dynamics, build quality, and driver engagement, often considered one of the best driving sedans of its era.

Consumer Reports:

BMW 5 Series generally received high marks for reliability and performance in contemporary reviews, though specific model year ratings vary.