🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

535i

Model Variant:

535

Year:

1990

Chassis Code:

E34

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Sedan

Target Audience:

Owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs, professional mechanics

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 Quattro, Lexus LS 400

Brand Philosophy:

The E34 generation emphasized driving dynamics, build quality, and technological innovation.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides the definitive guide for servicing and maintaining the 1990 BMW 535i, enabling cost savings and ensuring proper vehicle upkeep.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America

Secondary Coverage:

Global (specifications may vary slightly by region)

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds of pages (precise count not specified, but described as 'complete')

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete overhaul, diagnostics, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic)

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic transmission service, diagnostics, fluid changes, rebuild procedures

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), disc brake service, caliper repair, brake fluid specifications

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, instruments, fuses, relays

Body:

Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, bumpers, trim, interior components, body repair

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system operation, diagnosis, and component service

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, fuel filter replacement

Emission Control:

Catalytic converter, O2 sensors, EVAP system, emissions-related diagnostics

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks, belt inspection/replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, common fault identification, symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems

Overhaul:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures

Diagnostics:

Component testing procedures, interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (where applicable)

Installation:

Installation guides for accessories and replacement parts

Timing Belt Or Chain:

Procedures for checking and replacing timing chain (M30 is a chain-driven engine).

Engine Compression Testing:

Detailed instructions on performing compression tests to diagnose engine health.

Suspension Alignment:

Precise alignment specifications (camber, caster, toe) for front and rear axles.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120mm

Tire Sizes:

Common sizes include 205/60VR15, 225/55VR15 (refer to manual and door jamb sticker for exact fitment).

Brake Rotor And Pad Replacement:

Step-by-step guide for replacing brake pads and rotors.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Includes detailed, system-specific wiring diagrams for all electrical components, crucial for diagnostics.

Diagnostic Tools:

Guidance on using basic diagnostic tools and interpreting test results for engine and electronic systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable:

Likely searchable (standard for factory PDF manuals)

Quality:

High-resolution scans, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M30B34

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

3.4 Liters (3430 cc)

Horsepower:

208 hp @ 5700 RPM (approx.)

Torque:

224 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic M3.3 fuel injection

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent

Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic Engine Oil (refer to manual for precise spec)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual

Type:

4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)

Rear Axle Ratio:

Typically 3.46:1 (may vary)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent (refer to manual for exact BMW specification)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4,710 mm (185.4 in)

Width:

1,751 mm (68.9 in)

Height:

1,410 mm (55.5 in)

Wheelbase:

2,799 mm (110.2 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,550 - 1,650 kg (3,417 - 3,638 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not specified, but significant for its class.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

N/A (Testing standards were different in 1990)

ABS:

Standard Bosch ABS III

Traction Control:

Optional (ASC - Automatic Stability Control)

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag standard on 1990 models onwards.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts front and rear.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

BMW Bavaria C Professional or similar (cassette player, optional CD changer interface)

Onboard Computer:

Optional On-Board Computer (OBC) with functions like average speed, fuel consumption, distance to empty.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional depending on trim.

Parking Sensors:

Not available in 1990.

Bluetooth:

Not available in 1990.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) with synthetic oil (refer to manual for specific interval based on driving conditions).

Transmission Fluid:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for automatic, check manual for manual transmission fluid intervals.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plugs:

Bosch Super Plus spark plugs (e.g., W8AC) at 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific BMW approval)

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II/III or Pentosin CHF 11 S (verify with manual for correct type for this model year).

Common Problems:

Head gasket leaks, cooling system component failure (radiator, water pump, hoses), oil pan gasket leaks, ABS sensor failure, OBC (On-Board Computer) pixelation, door seal degradation, suspension bushing wear.

Electrical Quirks:

Corrosion on electrical connectors, HVAC blower motor resistor failure.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for building driver-focused, high-quality sedans.

E34 Introduction:

The E34 generation replaced the E28 and was produced from 1987 to 1996. The 535i was a key model in this lineup.

535I Positioning:

Positioned as a performance-oriented executive sedan, bridging the gap between the 525i and the V8 models.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Ten Best:

The E34 chassis (including the 535i) was frequently recognized on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists in its production years for its driving dynamics and engineering.

Automotive Journalism Reviews:

Praised for its sophisticated chassis, powerful engine, and luxurious yet driver-oriented interior.