Class:
Executive Sedan / Luxury Sports Sedan
Target Audience:
Affluent buyers seeking performance, luxury, and advanced engineering
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 Quattro, Lexus LS 400
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for excellent handling, ride comfort, and driver engagement
Build Quality:
Exceptional build quality and German engineering
Powertrain Options:
Smooth inline-six engines, powerful V8 options (later in the generation)
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, repair, tuning
Fuel System:
Fuel injection systems (Motronic), fuel pumps, injectors, lines, tank
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan, coolant specifications
Exhaust System:
Manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, pipes, emissions controls
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, fluid changes, clutch service, driveshafts
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), disc and drum brake overhaul, fluid specifications
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, linkage, fluid specifications
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, ignition system, lighting, accessories, fuses, relays
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant, components
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, locks, hinges, chassis lubrication
Interior:
Seats, dashboard, trim panels, sound deadening
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based repairs
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, brake checks, tune-ups
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems
Rebuilds:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Installation:
Component installation and removal procedures
Troubleshooting:
Extensive troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, measurements, tolerances
Depth:
Dealer-level technical information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually, check owner's manual or service intervals specific to oil type
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific engine and plug type (e.g., 30,000-60,000 miles)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Typically every 50,000-100,000 miles, often considered 'lifetime' by BMW but periodic changes recommended for longevity
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-40 depending on climate and specific engine (check manual for precise recommendation, synthetic recommended)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) or equivalent
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue antifreeze (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, 75W-90 or 80W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II (or III, check specific transmission)
Cooling System:
Water pump failure, radiator leaks, plastic expansion tank cracking
Engine Gaskets:
Valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks
Suspension:
Control arm bushings wear, rear subframe mounting point cracking, shock absorber wear
Electrical:
Ignition coil failure, ABS sensor issues, power window regulators failing, climate control blower resistor failure
Fuel System:
Fuel pump failure, injector seal leaks
Interior:
Headliner sagging, dashboard cracks, door panel delamination
Bmw Philosophy:
The Ultimate Driving Machine, focus on performance and engineering excellence
E34 Introduction:
Introduced in 1987 (Europe) / 1988 (North America), replaced the E28 5-Series
E34 Facelift:
Received a facelift in 1994 (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse) with updated aerodynamics, interior, and engine options
E34 Variants:
Includes Sedan (4-door), Touring (5-door wagon), M5 performance variant
Production Years:
1987-1996
Production Locations:
Germany, South Africa