Positioning:
Premium executive sedan, known for engineering, performance, and luxury
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 (D1), Jaguar XJ, Volvo 700 Series
Design:
Iconic BMW styling, refined interior appointments, excellent build quality
Performance:
Excellent handling, powerful inline-six engines, rear-wheel drive dynamics
Benefit:
Empowers owners and technicians to perform repairs and maintenance efficiently and accurately
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing systems, lubrication, cooling
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (Bosch Motronic, L-Jetronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, tank
Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, distributors (where applicable), ignition control modules
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox internals, shift linkages, torque specifications
Transmission Automatic:
Gearbox internals, valve body, torque converter, transmission control module (where applicable)
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings
Steering:
Steering rack, power steering pump, steering column, tie rods
Brakes:
Brake calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, ABS system (where applicable), brake lines
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, instrumentation
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, bumpers, chassis structure, corrosion protection
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system components and service
Interior:
Seats, dashboard, trim panels, soundproofing
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and top-offs, belt replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault code interpretation (where applicable)
Repair:
Component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems
Rebuilds:
Detailed engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical system wiring diagrams for all models and options
Depth:
Full workshop level, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls
Diagnostic Procedures:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and explanations for system faults
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical components
E28 Common Engines:
2.0L M10 (520i), 2.5L M20 (525i), 2.7L M30 (528i), 3.4L M30 (535i), 2.4L M21 Turbodiesel (524td)
E34 Common Engines:
2.0L M20 (520i), 2.5L M20 (525i), 3.0L M30 (530i), 3.4L M30 (535i), 2.5L M50 (525i), 3.0L M50 (530i), 3.0L M52 (530i), 3.5L M30 (M535i), 3.6L M88/S38 (M5)
E28 535I Hp:
182 hp @ 5400 rpm
E28 535I Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
E34 535I Hp:
208 hp @ 5700 rpm
E34 535I Torque:
225 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
E34 M5 Hp:
310 hp @ 6900 rpm
E34 M5 Torque:
266 lb-ft @ 4750 rpm
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Bosch Motronic variants
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Premium recommended), Diesel for td models
E28 Standard:
4-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP22)
E34 Standard:
5-speed manual (e.g., Getrag 260)
E28 Optional:
5-speed manual (e.g., Getrag 260)
E34 Optional:
4-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP22), 5-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 5HP18, 5HP30)
Features:
Rear-wheel drive, limited-slip differential available on select models
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Timing Belt Interval:
Not applicable for most E28/E34 engines (chain-driven camshafts), except for some early M40 variants which may have belts.
Engine Oil:
API SJ/SL or ACEA A3/B3, viscosity 5W-40 or 10W-40 recommended (consult manual for exact specs per engine).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (e.g., Castrol TSF 75W-90)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent (e.g., ZF LifeguardFluid T-IV)
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (hoses, radiator, water pump), head gasket issues (especially M30), fuel pump failures, electrical gremlins, rust (wheel arches, rocker panels), worn suspension bushings, ABS sensor failures.
E34 Specific Issues:
Heater control valve leaks, front control arm bushings, rear shock mounts.
