Target Audience:
BMW E34 530i owners, DIY mechanics, and professional workshops seeking in-depth repair information.
Differentiation:
Specificity to make, model, and year (BMW 530i E34 1988-1991), contrasting with generic manuals. High detail and comprehensive coverage.
Description:
Easy-to-follow, detailed instructions, step-by-step diagrams, electrical diagrams, fluid capacities, and troubleshooting guides.
Value Proposition:
Empowers users to perform all necessary repairs and maintenance, saving on labor costs and ensuring proper vehicle upkeep.
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive workshop repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting
Estimated Page Count:
Likely several hundred pages, typical for a full workshop manual (exact count not provided)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head/valve, cylinder/piston, crankcase, crankshaft/primary shaft
Fuel System:
Fuel system components, delivery, and diagnostics
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch, gearshift linkage, sub-transmission, transmission overhaul, crankshaft/primary shaft
Suspension Steering:
Front wheel/suspension, rear wheel/suspension
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system components and repair
Electrical Charging:
Battery/charging system, ignition system, electric starter
Electrical Controls:
Switches, re-wiring, electrical diagrams
Body:
Bodywork, interior trim, doors, windows, and related hardware (implied by comprehensive coverage)
Heating Ac:
Climate control system components and service (likely included in general repair).
Maintenance:
Lubrication, inspection, adjustment, routine servicing
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component overhaul and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures and solutions for common problems
Wiring Repair:
Specific mention of 're-wiring' indicates detailed electrical troubleshooting and repair guides.
Depth Of Coverage:
Extremely high, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics.
Diagnostics:
Includes procedures for diagnosing electronic control units (ECU) and sensor issues via diagnostic connectors.
Engine Code:
M30B30 (commonly found in this application)
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, naturally aspirated
Displacement:
2.986 Liters (approx. 3.0L)
Bore X Stroke:
89.0 mm x 80.0 mm (typical for M30B30)
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 to 8.5:1 (typical, depending on variant)
Horsepower:
Approximately 188 hp @ 5500 rpm (for M30B30)
Torque:
Approximately 204 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (for M30B30)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating typically 91 or higher)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5.5 - 6.5 liters (refer to manual for exact specification and filter)
Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for specific BMW approval and viscosity (e.g., BMW Longlife-98, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 9-10 liters (50% coolant/water mix, refer to manual)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant (BMW Blue or compatible)
Type:
5-speed manual transmission (Getrag 260/5 typically)
Type:
4-speed automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22 typically)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Manual: Approx. 1.5-1.8 liters; Automatic: Approx. 8-10 liters (refer to manual for exact specifications and fluid type, e.g., ATF Dexron III for automatic)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2799 mm (110.2 in)
Length:
Approx. 4777 mm (188.1 in)
Width:
Approx. 1751 mm (68.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1500-1600 kg (depending on transmission and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle VIN plate or manual
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
Typical Tire Size:
205/65 R15, 225/55 R15 (Varies by trim and options)
Crash Test Data:
Early E34 models were tested by NHTSA and IIHS; specific ratings should be cross-referenced for the model year.
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models
Steering:
Power assisted steering, often with variable assistance
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag became more common as the E34 generation progressed, but might be optional or absent on early '88-'91 models.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts front and rear
Audio System:
Factory radio/cassette or CD player with upgraded speaker systems common. Features varied by trim level and options.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most 530i models
Early Features:
On-board computer (OBC) providing fuel consumption, range, and diagnostic messages. Limited connectivity by modern standards.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500 to 15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used (refer to manual).
Spark Plugs:
Typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (depending on plug type - standard vs. platinum/iridium).
Timing Belt Chain:
M30 engines use a timing chain, which is designed to last the life of the engine but requires inspection for wear and tensioner health.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific BMW fluid specification (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent).
Common Failures:
Head gasket leaks (especially if overheated), cooling system component failures (radiator, hoses, water pump), ignition coil failure, fuel pump issues, VANOS issues (though less prevalent on M30 engines compared to M50/M52), window regulator failures, suspension bushings wear.
Preventative Maintenance:
Regular cooling system maintenance, timely oil changes, inspection of rubber hoses and seals.
Bmw Philosophy:
The E34 generation continued BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' emphasizing performance, luxury, and engineering.
E34 Introduction:
The E34 series replaced the E28 and was produced from 1987 to 1996. The 530i was a significant model within this lineup.
E34 Design:
Known for its aerodynamic, clean-sheet design penned by studio chief Claus Luthe.
Production Period:
1988-1991 for the 530i E34 models covered by this manual.
