Model Years Covered:
1990-1991
Typical Engine Code:
M40B18
Segment:
Executive sedan, mid-size luxury
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/A6 (C3/C4), Lexus ES250/LS400
Target Audience:
Owners, DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, BMW specialists
Purpose:
Enables DIY servicing with comprehensive repair guidance and cost savings
Depth:
From basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics
Vehicle Appeal:
Build quality, driving dynamics, refinement, and era-leading technology
Coverage:
All models covered - workshop grade technical content
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Estimated Pages:
Varies by edition; typically 500+ pages
File Format:
High-resolution, searchable PDF - instant download
Compatibility:
PC & Mac (Windows 95 through 10, macOS)
Printability:
Clear on-screen viewing and home printing
Engine:
Complete mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, and emissions systems
Transmission & Drivetrain:
Manual and automatic service, driveshafts, differentials, axle shafts, clutch
Suspension & Steering:
Front/rear components, shocks, springs, control arms, power steering, rack, tie rods
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), rotor and pad replacement, bleeding
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, accessories
Body & HVAC:
Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, bumpers, heating and A/C service
Maintenance:
Routine service, oil changes, filters, fluid checks, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures and fault finding for all major systems
Repair & Overhaul:
Step-by-step repair instructions and complete engine/transmission overhaul
Adjustments:
Engine timing, valves, brakes, and other precise adjustments
Reference Data:
Specifications, torque values, fluid capacities, part numbers
Visuals:
Exploded views, detailed diagrams, and illustrations
File Format:
PDF (searchable, bookmarked, zoomable)
Compatibility:
Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android — any device with a PDF reader
Requirements:
A PDF reader application (e.g. Adobe Acrobat Reader, free)
Searchability:
Fully text searchable for fast lookup of any topic
Print Quality:
High-resolution digital pages, printable at full clarity
Binding Type:
N/A — digital download, no physical binding
Paper Type:
N/A — digital download, no physical paper
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC
Displacement:
1.8 liters (1796 cc)
Bore x Stroke:
84 mm x 81 mm
Horsepower:
Approx. 115 PS (113 hp) @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 165 Nm (122 lb-ft) @ 4250 rpm
0-60 mph:
Approx. 11.5-12.5 seconds
Top Speed:
Approx. 195 km/h (121 mph)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, typically 95 RON / 91 AKI
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5-5.0 quarts (4.2-4.7 liters) with filter
Coolant:
BMW blue antifreeze/coolant (ethylene glycol based)
Optional:
4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Drive Layout:
Rear-wheel drive (well-established for the E34)
Manual Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Automatic Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-2 or equivalent
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90; LSD variants may need specific fluid
Length:
Approx. 4720 mm (185.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 1751 mm (68.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1370-1450 kg depending on transmission and options
ABS:
Optional on many models
Airbags:
Driver airbag typically standard on later models; passenger airbag optional
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel, front and rear
Structure:
Reinforced safety cell with impact-absorbing zones
Crash Test Data:
Varies by region and agency; known for robust chassis construction
Audio:
Factory AM/FM cassette radio; optional CD player, multiple speaker configurations
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (ECC)
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional depending on model
Windows & Mirrors:
Power windows and power-adjustable mirrors standard or optional
Park Distance Control:
Rear parking sensors (PDC) optional on later models
Check Control:
Optional onboard status and fault monitoring system
Oil Change:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually
Air Filter:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or per inspection
Spark Plugs:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (or DOT 3 if specified)
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW power steering fluid or Pentosin CHF 11S
Common Wear:
Cooling system components (hoses, water pump, thermostat, expansion tank), suspension bushings, blower motor resistor
Electrical Gremlins:
Age-related wiring/connector issues, especially engine bay and door seals
Rust-Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, rear window seal, jacking points
Brand Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure - engineering excellence, performance, and luxury
E34 Introduction:
1987 in Europe, 1988 in North America; successor to the E28 5 Series
Design Elements:
Sharper lines, aerodynamic improvements, multi-link rear suspension, integrated bumpers
Production Period:
1987-1996
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing), South Africa, Austria, Thailand, Mexico
