🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Chassis Code:

E34

Model Year:

1994

Generation:

Fourth Generation

Platform:

E34

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Sedan / Luxury Sedan

Key Selling Points:

Blend of performance, luxury, and advanced engineering for its era.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 (later A8), Lexus LS400, Jaguar XJ.

Design Philosophy:

Evolved BMW design language, aerodynamic improvements, focus on driver engagement.

Innovation:

Introduction of advanced engine technologies (e.g., VANOS on M50), improved chassis dynamics, and increased safety features.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive repair and service for BMW E34 1994 models.

Engine Coverage:

All gasoline engines offered in 1994, including M50B20, M50B25, M60B30, M60B40.

Transmission Coverage:

Manual (Getrag 260, Getrag 290) and Automatic (ZF 4HP22, ZF 5HP18) transmissions.

Body And Chassis Coverage:

All body panels, chassis components, suspension, steering, and braking systems.

Electrical System Coverage:

Complete electrical diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting for lighting, ignition, fuel injection, climate control, and comfort features.

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Purpose:

Mechanics and DIY enthusiasts for repair, maintenance, and adjustments.

Language:

English

Format:

Printed

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Diagnosis and repair of DME (Digital Motor Electronics), fuel injection systems (Bosch Motronic), ignition systems, and emissions controls.

Drivetrain:

Detailed procedures for clutch replacement, manual transmission overhaul, automatic transmission service and diagnosis, driveshaft and differential maintenance.

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension component replacement, alignment procedures, power steering system diagnosis and repair.

Braking System:

Disc brake component replacement, ABS system diagnosis and repair (if equipped), brake fluid service.

Climate Control:

Diagnosis and repair of HVAC systems, including A/C refrigerant service, blower motor, heater core, and climate control unit.

Body And Interior:

Panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, seat adjustments, trim panel servicing.

Electrical Component Diagnosis:

Testing and replacement of starter motor, alternator, battery, sensors, actuators, and control modules.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, coolant flushes.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common driveability, electrical, and mechanical issues.

Disassembly And Assembly:

Step-by-step instructions for removing, overhauling, and reinstalling major components.

Repair Instructions:

Detailed guidance on fixing specific parts and systems, including torques, clearances, and special tool requirements.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Includes procedures for using diagnostic tools and interpreting fault codes.

📊 Manual Specifications

Print Quality:

High quality, factory-standard printing for durability and readability.

Binding:

Staple-bound or perfect-bound (typical for this type of manual)

Paper Quality:

Durable, often coated paper suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1994:

M50B20 (2.0L I6), M50B25 (2.5L I6), M60B30 (3.0L V8), M60B40 (4.0L V8).

M50B25 Horsepower:

189 hp @ 6000 rpm

M50B25 Torque:

245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 4700 rpm

M60B40 Horsepower:

282 hp @ 5800 rpm

M60B40 Torque:

400 Nm (295 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm

Fuel Injection Type:

Bosch Motronic M3.1 / M3.3 (depending on engine)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (RON 91 or higher recommended)

Engine Control Unit:

DME (Digital Motor Electronics)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed manual (Getrag 260/265 for I6, Getrag 290 for V8)

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22) or 5-speed automatic (ZF 5HP18 for some models)

Manual Transmission Clutch:

Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch

Automatic Transmission Features:

Sport and Economy modes (depending on model)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW recommends Pentosin MTF LT-2 or equivalent GL-4 gear oil (e.g., Castrol TAF-X).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ZF TE-ML 11A / 11B or Dexron III equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Sedan Length:

Approx. 4,720 mm (185.8 in)

Sedan Width:

Approx. 1,750 mm (68.9 in)

Sedan Height:

Approx. 1,410 mm (55.5 in)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 1,500 kg - 1,750 kg (3300 - 3850 lbs) depending on engine and equipment.

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,760 mm (108.7 in)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Information:

While specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for the 1994 E34 are not readily available in a standardized format, BMW historically prioritized safety with features like reinforced passenger cells, impact-absorbing bumpers, and side-impact protection (on later E34s).

ABS:

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

Traction Control:

Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) available on some models.

Airbags:

Driver airbag standard, optional passenger airbag on some 1994 models.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for all occupants, front seatbelt pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard BMW Business CD or optional Hi-Fi systems with premium speakers and amplifiers.

Navigation:

Optional early GPS navigation systems (BMW Car Navigation System II).

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control) were becoming available.

Telephony:

Optional BMW integrated car phone systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil quality (check specific year/model recommendations).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Depending on plug type: 30,000 miles for standard, 60,000-100,000 miles for platinum or iridium.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type I6:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting BMW LL-98 or API SJ/CF specifications.

Engine Oil Type V8:

SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting BMW LL-98 or API SJ/CF specifications.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4.

Cooling System Weaknesses:

Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack. Water pump bearings and thermostat housings can also fail.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets are common sources of leaks.

Headliner Sagging:

Adhesive on the headliner fabric degrades over time, causing sagging.

ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:

Can fail, leading to ABS warning lights and system malfunction.

Oil Filter I6 M50:

Mann-Filter W 930/7 or Mahle OX 176/1D

Air Filter I6 M50:

Mann-Filter C 25 031

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' emphasizing performance and engineering excellence.

E34 Introduction:

Introduced in 1987 (Europe) and 1988 (North America) as the successor to the E28 5 Series.

E34 Facelift:

Received a significant facelift in 1994 (often referred to as LCI - Life Cycle Impulse), featuring revised aerodynamics, updated interior trim, new wheel designs, and the introduction of the V8 engines.

Production Years:

1987-1996

Manufacturing Locations:

Mainly Dingolfing, Germany; some assembly also occurred in South Africa and Thailand.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

The E34 5 Series consistently received praise from automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and comfort. It was a benchmark in its class for many years.