🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Chassis Code:

E34

Model Year:

1994

Engine Codes Covered:

M50B20, M50B25, M50B28 (and potentially others depending on specific market variants)

Transmission Codes Covered:

Getrag 260 (5-speed manual), ZF 4HP22/4HP24 (4-speed automatic), ZF 5HP18/5HP30 (5-speed automatic)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Sedan / Mid-size Luxury Sedan

Target Audience:

Automotive enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, independent repair shops specializing in BMW.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 (D1), Lexus LS400, Jaguar XJ.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for balanced handling, rear-wheel drive bias, and driver-focused cockpit.

Build Quality:

High levels of German engineering, solid construction, and durable materials.

Value Proposition:

Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the E34 chassis, saving significant costs compared to dealer service.

Essential For:

Troubleshooting complex issues, performing preventative maintenance, and ensuring the longevity of a classic BMW.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions

Page Count:

Estimated 1500-2500+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft), fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system.

Transmission & Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (clutch, gearbox, shift linkage), automatic transmission (hydraulic control, torque converter, valve body), driveshafts, differentials, axles.

Chassis & Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms, anti-roll bar), rear suspension (multi-link independent, trailing arms, anti-roll bar), steering system (power steering pump, rack and pinion), wheels and tires.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system (master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics, parking brake.

Electrical System:

12V battery system, alternator, starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuse box, relays, wiring diagrams, instrument cluster, power windows, mirrors, central locking, sunroof.

Body & Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), safety restraints (seat belts).

Diagnostics & Troubleshooting:

Fault code retrieval (where applicable), symptom-based diagnostics, common problems and solutions, diagnostic procedures for various systems.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), coolant flushes, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, belt inspection and replacement.

Repair Procedures:

Engine component overhauls (head gasket, timing chain, oil pump), transmission rebuilds, clutch replacement, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, starter/alternator replacement, HVAC component repair.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Testing sensors, actuators, electrical circuits, fuel pressure testing, compression testing, leak-down testing.

Special Tools & Equipment:

Identification and usage of BMW-specific tools for various repair and diagnostic tasks.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive (covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics).

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable if the original source was digital or scanned with OCR.

Quality:

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

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variants Covered:

Inline-6 cylinder, naturally aspirated gasoline engines (M50 family primarily).

M50B20 (2.0L):

Approx. 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp) @ 6000 rpm, 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) @ 4300 rpm.

M50B25 (2.5L):

Approx. 170 PS (125 kW; 168 hp) @ 5800 rpm, 245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 4200 rpm (non-VANOS), 192 PS (141 kW; 189 hp) @ 6000 rpm, 245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 4200 rpm (VANOS).

M50B28 (2.8L - Often Found In 528I Models):

Approx. 193 PS (142 kW; 190 hp) @ 5300 rpm, 280 Nm (207 lb-ft) @ 3950 rpm.

Injection System:

Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (various versions depending on specific engine).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating typically 91-98 RON).

Spark Plug Type:

NGK BKR6EK (or equivalent, specific to engine variant).

Timing Belt Or Chain:

Timing chain (M50 engines), eliminating interval replacement concerns of timing belts.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission Options:

Getrag 260 (5-speed manual) was common on many variants.

Automatic Transmission Options:

ZF 4HP22 (4-speed automatic), ZF 4HP24 (4-speed automatic, heavier duty), ZF 5HP18 (5-speed automatic for 6-cylinder), ZF 5HP30 (5-speed automatic for V8 models).

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios for each transmission variant will be detailed in the manual.

Automatic Control:

Electronic or hydraulic control systems, including Sport and Eco modes on some models.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III (or equivalent MTF for later variants, consult manual for exact spec).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or BMW specific ATF, with regular change intervals critical for longevity.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in)

Length:

Approx. 4733 mm (186.3 in)

Width:

Approx. 1751 mm (68.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Varies by model, typically 1500-1700 kg (3300-3750 lbs).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Specific to model variant, detailed in manual.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

While official 1994 NCAP ratings are scarce, the E34 was known for its robust structure and safety features for its era. Refer to manual for passive safety system details.

ABS:

Standard or optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on most models, significantly enhancing braking control.

Traction Control:

ASC (Automatic Stability Control) or ASC+T (with traction control) was optional on many models.

Airbags:

Driver's airbag was standard on later models, passenger airbag optional.

Seat Belts:

Pre-tensioned front seat belts.

Body Structure:

Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

BMW Bavaria C or similar premium sound systems, often with cassette player and optional CD changer.

Obc:

Optional On-Board Computer providing trip data, fuel consumption, and diagnostic checks.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models, operated via steering column stalk.

Parking Sensors:

Not typically available for this model year.

Phone Integration:

Optional provisions for early car phones, not modern Bluetooth.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions (check manual for precise BMW recommendations).

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Automatic transmissions: 60,000-100,000 km (37,000-60,000 miles) is a common recommendation for longevity, though BMW's original 'lifetime' fill is debated. Manual: Check for leaks, change if evidence of contamination.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles).

Brake Fluid Change Interval:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage, due to moisture absorption.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG/SH or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic recommended (consult manual for exact BMW specification).

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue or Green coolant concentrate mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio), or a quality equivalent meeting BMW specifications.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II/III or CHF 11S (depending on specific system, check manual).

Cooling System:

Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack; water pump failure can occur.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal are common leak points.

Electrical Issues:

ABS sensors, fuel pump relays, window regulators, and pixelation on the instrument cluster OBC (On-Board Computer).

Suspension:

Worn control arm bushings, shock absorbers, and rear subframe bushings can lead to poor handling and noise.

Vanos (Variable Valve Timing):

Early VANOS systems on M50 engines can develop noisy solenoids or seals, affecting performance.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's long-standing reputation for building driver-oriented, performance-focused luxury vehicles.

Predecessor:

BMW E28 5 Series.

Successor:

BMW E39 5 Series.

Production Years:

E34 production ran from 1987 to 1996 (with facelifts in 1993), making 1994 a mid-cycle production year.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany (Dingolfing plant), with some assembly in South Africa and other locations.

M5:

The E34 M5, powered by the S38B36 or S38B38 engine, represents the pinnacle of the E34 performance.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The E34 5 Series was frequently recognized by publications like Car and Driver as one of the 10Best cars during its production run, lauded for its driving dynamics and engineering.

Reliability Reputation:

Generally considered reliable and well-built, though maintenance is key to preserving longevity. Issues are often age-related rather than design flaws.

Manual Accuracy:

This manual is derived from official BMW technical documentation, ensuring high accuracy and adherence to factory specifications.