Target Audience:
BMW E34 owners, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics specializing in classic BMWs.
Manual Value:
Highly valuable due to its comprehensive nature, professional illustrations, and coverage of multiple engine variants and body styles of a desirable classic BMW model. Superior to basic Haynes or Chilton manuals in depth and detail.
Features:
Extensive page count, 27 detailed chapters, professionally illustrated, step-by-step procedures, full coverage of multiple engine variants (M20, M50, M21 diesel), robust diagnostic information.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical system, fuel system (injection and supply), cooling system, exhaust system, engine management (DME/ECU).
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission, gear shift mechanism, propeller shaft, rear axle.
Chassis Systems:
Front axle, steering and wheel alignment, rear axle, brakes, pedals, wheels and tires, integrated suspension system.
Body Systems:
Body construction, body equipment, interior trim, exterior trim, windows, doors, locking mechanisms.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance checks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper repair, suspension component replacement, steering rack replacement, body panel repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, common fault finding for engine, electrical, fuel, and transmission issues.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic codes.
Engine Variants Covered:
M20B20 (2.0L Inline-6), M20B25 (2.5L Inline-6), M50B20 (2.0L Inline-6 VANOS), M50B25 (2.5L Inline-6 VANOS), M21D24 (2.4L Turbo Diesel Inline-6).
M20B20 Power:
Approx. 129 hp (95 kW)
M20B25 Power:
Approx. 171 hp (126 kW)
M50B20 Power:
Approx. 150 hp (110 kW)
M50B25 Power:
Approx. 192 hp (141 kW)
M21D24 Power:
Approx. 115 hp (85 kW)
Fuel Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic (various versions depending on engine and year, e.g., Motronic 1.3, 1.7).
Manual Transmission Types:
Getrag 260 (5-speed) common on many models.
Automatic Transmission Types:
ZF 4HP22 (4-speed automatic).
Transmission Coverage:
Detailed procedures for clutch replacement, transmission fluid changes, seal replacement, and internal transmission repairs for both manual and automatic transmissions.
Safety Features Discussion:
Manual covers standard safety equipment of the era, likely including airbags (driver and optional passenger), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), seatbelt pre-tensioners. Specific crash test ratings for the period are generally not as standardized as today, but E34 was known for solid construction.
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - coverage for ABS pump, wheel speed sensors, hydraulic unit.
Passive Safety Systems:
Front airbags, crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell. Manual covers airbag system diagnostics and component replacement.
Infotainment Systems:
The manual would cover original BMW sound systems, potentially including cassette players and early CD changers. Diagnostic procedures for the radio and speaker systems would be included.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction), potentially electronic damper control (EDC) on higher-spec models. The manual details the operation and servicing of these systems.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards. May include basic telecommunications features or diagnostic port access (OBD-I). Manual would cover the wiring and diagnostic protocols of the era.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Manual provides detailed guidance.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended at intervals ranging from 30,000 to 60,000 km (18,000 to 36,000 miles) depending on plug type (copper, platinum). Manual specifies correct plugs and gaps.
Engine Oil Spec:
Varies by engine, typically API SG/SH or higher, SAE 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-40. Manual lists precise specifications and capacities for each engine.
Coolant Spec:
BMW blue coolant (G48) or equivalent. Manual provides capacity and mixing ratio.
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
ZF TE-ML 04D or equivalent for 4HP22 automatic transmissions. Manual specifies correct fluid type and capacity.
Common E34 Issues:
Cooling system components (radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses), head gasket leaks (especially on M50), VANOS unit issues (on M50 engines), ABS/ASC control unit failures, fuel pump failure, rear subframe mounts, heater control valve (HDC) leaks.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's reputation for building driver-focused luxury sedans with strong performance and engineering integrity. The E34 embodied this with its balanced chassis and potent inline-six engines.
E34 Development:
The E34 replaced the E28 5 Series. It featured more aerodynamic styling, a stiffer chassis, and advanced suspension designs. Key innovations included available self-leveling rear suspension and electronic damper control on some models. The M5 (E34 S38 engine) was the high-performance variant, though not explicitly covered by model name here, its systems are related.
Production Period:
1987-1996 (with significant overlap into the later years covered by the manual).
