🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5-Series

Chassis Code:

E34

Model Years:

1988-1995

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Sedan / Luxury Sports Sedan

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 / A8 (later), Lexus LS 400

Design Philosophy:

BMW's signature blend of performance, luxury, and advanced engineering

Target Audience:

Discerning drivers seeking performance, comfort, and build quality.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

525i, 525iX, 530i, 535i, 535i Sport, 525i Sport, 540i, 540i M-sport, M5

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (not explicitly stated, but implied by 180MB file size and 'all diagnostic and repair procedures covered in great detail')

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, lubrication system, cooling system, control system, fuel system, exhaust system

Transmission:

Clutch, manual transaxle, automatic transaxle

Drivetrain:

Front axle, rear axle

Suspension:

Front suspension, rear suspension, road wheels & tyres

Brakes:

Brake system, parking brake system, brake control system

Steering:

Power steering system, steering system

Restraints:

Seat belts, supplemental restraint system (SRS)

Body:

Body, lock & security system, glasses, window system & mirrors, roof, exterior & interior, instrumental panel, seats

Air Conditioning:

Air conditioner system

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, starting & charging system, lighting system, driver information system, wiper, washer & horn, body control system, LAN system, audio visual, navigation & telephone system, auto cruise control system, power supply, ground & circuit elements

Maintenance:

General maintenance procedures

Repair Procedures:

All repair procedures covered from A-Z, diagnostic and repair procedures in great detail

Refurbishment Restoration:

Rebuild, refurbish, restore

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, equivalent to professional technician manuals

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

File Size:

180MB

Printability:

Printable

Searchability:

Implied by digital format, though not explicitly stated

Quality Description:

High Quality Photos, Illustrations And Diagrams

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

E34 Engine Lineup:

Inline-4 (M40 - less common in some markets for E34), Inline-6 (M20, M30, M50, M52), V8 (M60, M62)

Engine Displacement:

2.5 Liters (M20B25, M50B25, M52B25)

Engine Displacement:

3.0 Liters (M30B30, M60B30)

Engine Displacement:

3.5 Liters (M30B35)

Engine Displacement:

4.0 Liters (M60B40)

Engine Displacement:

3.6 Liters (S38B36) for early models, 3.8 Liters (S38B38) for later models

525I Horsepower Range:

Approx. 168-192 hp (depending on engine variant)

535I Horsepower:

Approx. 208 hp (M30B35)

540I Horsepower:

Approx. 282 hp (M60B40)

M5 Horsepower:

Approx. 310-340 hp (depending on S38 variant)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI) across most variants

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

5-speed manual (Getrag 260 for most models), 4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22 for early models), 5-speed automatic (ZF 5HP18/5HP30 for later models)

All Wheel Drive:

Available on 525iX (with xDrive system)

Transmission Control:

Advanced electronic control for automatic transmissions

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in)

Length:

Approx. 4730-4775 mm (186.2-188.0 in) depending on model

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1550-1750 kg (3417-3858 lbs) depending on engine and features

🛡️ Safety Features

Historical Ratings:

Generally strong for its era, but lacked modern advanced safety features. Focused on passive safety and chassis dynamics.

ABS:

Standard on most models, especially later ones.

Traction Control:

Available on select models, particularly later V8 and M5 variants.

Airbags:

Driver's airbag became standard on most models by mid-production. Passenger airbags were optional/later standard on some.

Seat Belts:

All-position seat belts, pre-tensioners on front belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

BMW Bavaria C, Professional RDS; optional CD players, Hi-Fi systems (e.g., Harman Kardon).

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional on many models.

Park Assist:

Rear parking sensors were an option on later models.

Telephone System:

Optional early car phone systems.

Instrument Cluster:

Driver information system (DIS) with OBC (On-Board Computer) on many models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Major Service Intervals:

Includes spark plug replacement, timing belt/chain inspection (depending on engine), coolant flush, brake fluid flush typically around 30,000-60,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH rated synthetic or synthetic blend, viscosity depends on climate (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-40, 15W-50).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., BMW approved blue or green coolant).

Transmission Fluid:

Specific ATF for automatic transmissions (e.g., Dexron II/III for early models, proprietary fluids for later ZF units). Manual gear oil type specified.

Common Problems:

Cooling system leaks (hoses, water pump, expansion tank), oil leaks (valve cover, oil pan gaskets), VANOS issues (on M50/M52TU engines), EML light (electronic throttle control), door handle microswitches, fuel pump failures, ABS/ASC sensor issues.

M5 Specific Issues:

Rod bearing wear (on some M60/S38 engines), exhaust manifold cracks, clutch wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

"The Ultimate Driving Machine" – emphasis on performance, handling, and driver engagement.

E34 Development:

Evolved from the E28 5-Series, bringing a sleeker design and more advanced technology. Introduced V8 engines to the 5-Series and all-wheel drive (525iX).

E34 Facelift:

Mid-cycle refresh in 1994 introduced updated M50/M52 engines, revised styling elements (grilles, bumpers), and interior updates.

Production Period:

1987-1996 (European launch 1987, North American launch 1988)

Manufacturing Plants:

Mainly Dingolfing, Germany, with some assembly in other locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The E34 5-Series was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production run, particularly the 535i and M5.

Contemporary Reviews:

Consistently praised for its driving dynamics, build quality, and refined powertrains.