🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

535i

Model Code:

E34 (for the 535i variant of this generation)

Year:

1987

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Sedan

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124), Audi 100, Jaguar XJ

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for BMW's signature handling and performance

Build Quality:

Excellent German engineering and robust construction

Engine Performance:

Smooth, powerful inline-six engine

Interior Comfort:

Luxurious and driver-focused cabin

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (indicative of comprehensive coverage)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

M30B34 (3.4L Inline-6)

Fuel System:

Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection

Ignition System:

Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based)

Cooling System:

Radiator, Fan, Water Pump, Thermostat

Exhaust System:

Manifold, Catalytic Converter, Mufflers

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic Transmissions

Drivetrain:

Rear Wheel Drive (RWD)

Suspension:

Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Multi-link Independent Suspension

Steering:

Power Assisted Rack and Pinion

Brakes:

Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

Electrical System:

12V Electrical System, Charging System, Starting System

Lighting:

Headlights, Taillights, Interior Lighting

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning

Body And Chassis:

Body Panels, Frame, Doors, Glass

Interior:

Seats, Dashboard, Trim

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Fault Codes, Diagnostic Procedures

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements

Repair:

Engine Overhauls, Transmission Rebuilds, Suspension Component Replacement

Diagnostics:

Component Testing, Electrical Circuit Diagnosis

Adjustment:

Valve Adjustments, Idle Speed Control

Replacement:

Belts, Hoses, Spark Plugs, Brake Pads

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step guides for common and uncommon issues

Depth:

Complete Factory Level Repair and Diagnostics

Detail Level:

Detailed diagrams, schematics, and step-by-step instructions

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchable:

Likely searchable text, enhancing usability

Print Quality:

High resolution, suitable for printing

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M30B34

Engine Type:

SOHC Inline-6 Cylinder

Displacement:

3430 cc (3.4 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 86.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1

Horsepower:

208 hp @ 5700 rpm (approximate, may vary by market/emission standards)

Torque:

224 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate, may vary by market/emission standards)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended)

Ignition Type:

Electronic Ignition with Distributor

Oil Capacity W Filter:

6.5 Liters (approx. 6.9 US Quarts)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP22)

Clutch:

Hydraulically Actuated

Automatic Features:

Sport/Economy modes (common on this era)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW SYNTRAN 75W-90 or equivalent GL-4

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4720 mm (185.8 in)

Width:

1751 mm (68.9 in)

Height:

1410 mm (55.5 in)

Wheelbase:

2794 mm (110.0 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1540-1600 kg (3395-3527 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

2000 kg (approx.)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Not explicitly rated by modern standards, but built to rigorous German safety standards of the era.

ABS:

Standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

Traction Control:

ASC (Automatic Stability Control) became available on later E34 models, may not be standard on early 1987 535i.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag became standard in later years of E34 production, check specific vehicle build.

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts

Body Construction:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

OEM BMW radio/cassette player, optional CD changer (later E34 models).

Cruise Control:

Standard on most 535i models.

Phone Integration:

Not available in modern sense; some vehicles may have had early car phone options.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 30,000-40,000 miles for standard plugs, or longer for platinum/iridium types.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years.

Engine Oil:

SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific temperature ranges and BMW LL-98 specification if applicable, though LL-01 is more modern for M30). API SG or higher.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) Type A Suffix A or Dexron II/III

Common Problems:

Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), coolant hose degradation, potential for head gasket issues if overheated, fuel injector issues, transmission selector rod bushings wear, ABS sensor failures, blower motor resistor failure.

Recommendations:

Regular inspection of rubber hoses and seals, timely replacement of wear items, diligent fluid changes, and addressing any early signs of leaks or performance degradation.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Sheer Driving Pleasure, focus on performance and luxury

E34 Generation:

Introduced in 1987, succeeded the E28 generation. The E34 represented a significant redesign with improved aerodynamics, chassis dynamics, and technology.

Production Years:

E34 generation: 1987-1996

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (Dingolfing Plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and build quality in its era.