🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Model Generation:

E34

Model Years Covered:

1989-1995

Chassis Code:

E34

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Sedan

Target Audience:

Premium car buyers seeking performance, luxury, and advanced engineering

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8/A8, Lexus LS400, Jaguar XJ

Design Philosophy:

Iconic Bavarian Motor Works styling, driver-focused cockpit, robust engineering

Powertrain Options:

Renowned inline-six and V8 engines, rear-wheel drive bias, optional all-wheel drive (xDrive) on select models

Chassis Dynamics:

Exceptional ride and handling balance, advanced suspension technology

📋 Manual Details

Engine Overhaul:

Complete

Transmission Repair:

Complete

Electrical System Diagnostics:

Comprehensive

Suspension And Steering:

Complete

Brake System:

Complete

Body And Chassis:

Complete

HVAC System:

Complete

Fuel System:

Complete

Exhaust System:

Complete

Cooling System:

Complete

Interior Trim And Accessories:

Complete

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed

Troubleshooting Guides:

Extensive

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Classification:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Types:

M20, M30, M40, M43, M50, M60, S38

Engine Management System:

DME (Digital Motor Electronics), EML (Electronic Throttle Control)

Transmission Types:

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

Suspension Features:

MacPherson struts (front), Multi-link independent suspension (rear), Self-leveling suspension (optional)

Steering System:

Recirculating ball with power assist, Servotronic (variable assist) optional

Brake System Type:

Front ventilated discs, Rear solid discs (all models), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard on most models

Electrical Components:

Starter, Alternator, Battery, Ignition system, Lighting, Wiper system, Power accessories (windows, mirrors, seats), Central locking, OBC (On-Board Computer)

Climate Control:

Manual HVAC, Automatic Climate Control (ACC)

Body Control Module:

Included in electrical diagnostics

Airbag System:

Diagnosis and replacement procedures for early airbag systems

Maintenance Tasks:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, belt replacements, chassis lubrication

Engine Repair:

Cylinder head removal/installation, piston and ring replacement, crankshaft and bearing service, valve adjustments, timing chain/belt replacement

Transmission Overhaul:

Manual and automatic transmission disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Shock absorber/strut replacement, control arm bushing replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump and rack repair

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake line replacement, ABS component testing and replacement

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures for common electrical faults, component testing

Fuel System Diagnosis:

Fuel pump testing, injector cleaning and replacement, fuel pressure regulation

Cooling System Service:

Radiator replacement, water pump service, thermostat replacement, coolant leak diagnosis

HVAC System Repair:

Component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), refrigerant handling, leak detection

Bodywork Repair:

Panel removal/installation, door and window adjustments, trim component replacement

Diagnostic Procedures:

Fault code reading (where applicable), component testing, systematic troubleshooting

Depth Level:

Factory-level repair and diagnostic information

Diagnostic Tools Reference:

Information on required specialized tools and diagnostic equipment

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners

Schematics:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams, vacuum diagrams

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content

Printable:

Printable pages

Image Resolution:

High-resolution illustrations and diagrams

Physical Binding Style:

N/A (Digital Download)

Physical Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Range:

M20, M30, M40, M43, M50, M60, S38

Displacement Range:

2.0L to 4.0L

Horsepower Range:

115 hp (4-cyl) to 315 hp (M50)

Torque Range:

130 lb-ft to 317 lb-ft

Fuel Injection Type:

Bosch Motronic EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline

Engine Control Unit:

DME (Digital Motor Electronics)

Emission Controls:

Catalytic converter, Lambda sensor (Oxygen sensor)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Getrag 260 5-speed Manual

Optional Transmission:

ZF 4HP22/4HP24 Automatic, ZF 5HP18/5HP30 Automatic

Automatic Transmission Modes:

Standard, Sport (on some models)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF Dexron III equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF Dexron III equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1)

📐 Dimensions

Length Range:

185.0 - 191.0 inches

Width Range:

69.5 - 70.5 inches

Height Range:

55.0 - 56.5 inches

Wheelbase:

111.4 inches

Curb Weight Range:

3400 - 4000 lbs

Trunk Volume:

Approximately 16.0 - 18.0 cubic feet

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Not comprehensively rated by modern NHTSA standards, but generally considered safe for its era.

ABS:

Standard on most models post-1990

Traction Control:

ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) available on later models

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag standard from 1990 onwards, optional passenger airbag

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear

Body Structure:

Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit Options:

Factory BMW cassette/radio systems, premium Hi-Fi options, early CD changers

Speaker Systems:

Standard 6-speaker, Hi-Fi system with amplifier and more speakers

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models

On Board Computer:

OBC providing fuel economy, range, and basic diagnostics

Phone Integration:

Optional dealer-installed cellular phone kits available

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (BMW Condition Based Service or manual recommendation)

Spark Plug Replacement:

60,000 miles (standard ignition), 100,000 miles (platinum/long-life)

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) or API SJ/SL, ACEA A3/B3 rated synthetic oil, viscosity typically 0W-40, 5W-30, or 5W-40 depending on climate and specific engine.

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent silicate-free antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW CHF 11S or Pentosin SSF (Synthetic Steering Fluid)

Common Engine Problems:

Head gasket leaks (M30), oil pan gasket leaks, VANOS issues (M50/M52 - though less common on early M50s), cooling system component failures (thermostat housing, water pump, hoses), idle control valve issues.

Common Transmission Problems:

Automatic transmission valve body issues, manual transmission clutch wear, driveshaft flex disc failure.

Common Suspension Problems:

Worn control arm bushings, shock absorber failure, self-leveling suspension accumulator failure (if equipped).

Common Electrical Problems:

Corrosion in wiring harnesses, ABS sensor failures, OBC pixilation issues, window regulator failures, headlamp leveling system issues.

Common Body Issues:

Rust in fender wells, rocker panels, and rear subframe mounting points. Headliner sagging.

📚 Vehicle History

Founding Principles:

Engineering excellence, performance, and luxury

E34 Introduction:

Launched in 1987 in Europe, 1989 in North America

E34 Facelift:

Significant cosmetic and mechanical updates in 1994 (e.g., revised bumpers, M50 engine for 525i, updated interiors)

Notable Variants:

525i, 530i, 535i, 540i, M5 (S38B36 and S38B38 engines)

Body Styles:

4-door Sedan, 5-door Touring (Wagon)

Production Period:

1987-1996 (globally), 1989-1995 (North America focus of manual)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing, Munich)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Ten Best:

BMW 5 Series models frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10 Best lists during this generation for their blend of performance and luxury.

Owner Satisfaction:

Generally high owner satisfaction for driving dynamics and build quality, though maintenance costs can be higher.

Emissions Standards:

Compliant with US EPA emissions standards for the model years covered.