Segment:
Executive/Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 Quattro, Jaguar XJ6
Design Philosophy:
Elegant styling, driver-focused ergonomics, advanced engineering for its time.
Powertrain Emphasis:
Smooth power delivery, reliable performance, sporty handling.
Interior Appointments:
High-quality materials, comfortable seating, driver-oriented dashboard layout.
Engine:
Full Engine Service, Overhaul, Tuning, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Emission Control
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmission Overhaul, Clutch, Drive Axles, Driveshafts
Brakes:
Hydraulic System, Antilock Braking System (ABS) if equipped, Parking Brake, Brake Component Service
Steering:
Power Steering System, Steering Gearbox, Steering Column
Suspension:
Front and Rear Suspension Components, Shock Absorbers, Springs, Bushings, Alignment Procedures
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Starting System, Charging System, Ignition System, Instrument Cluster, Switches, Relays, Fuses, Diagnostic Procedures
Body:
Body Panel Repair, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass Replacement, Interior Trim, Sealing
Climate Control:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System Service and Repair
Fuel System:
Fuel Pump, Injectors, Fuel Lines, Fuel Tank, Emission Controls
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Tune-ups, Fluid Checks and Replacements
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Charts, Fault Code Interpretation (where applicable for the era)
Repair:
Step-by-Step Repair Instructions for all major systems, Component Replacement, Reassembly Procedures
Overhaul:
Engine Rebuild, Transmission Rebuild, Differential Rebuild Procedures
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Tolerances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Specifications
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed Electrical Schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Troubleshooting Level:
Advanced, covering symptom-based diagnosis and component testing
Rebuild Level:
Full rebuild procedures for major mechanical components
Digital Format:
Likely PDF if digitally sourced. If original print, then not applicable.
Print Quality:
Typically high-quality, clear diagrams and text for original BMW manuals.
Binding:
Likely perfect bound or spiral bound for ease of use in a workshop environment.
Paper Type:
Durable, thick paper stock suitable for workshop conditions.
Engine Code 518:
M20B20 (2.0L Inline-6)
Engine Code 518I:
M20B20 (2.0L Inline-6 with Bosch Motronic fuel injection)
Bore X Stroke:
80.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (Typical for M20B20)
Horsepower 518:
129 PS (95 kW; 127 hp) @ 5800 rpm (Approximate)
Torque 518:
174 Nm (128 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm (Approximate)
Horsepower 518I:
129 PS (95 kW; 127 hp) @ 5800 rpm (Same as 518, but with EFI)
Torque 518I:
174 Nm (128 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm (Same as 518, but with EFI)
Fuel Delivery 518:
Carbureted (e.g., Solex or Zenith)
Fuel Delivery 518I:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI / 95 RON recommended)
Layout:
Inline 6-Cylinder, Front-mounted, Longitudinal
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder
Crash Test Results:
NHTSA and IIHS ratings for this era are generally not comparable to modern standards. Focus is on passive safety features of the time.
Antilock Brakes:
Optional ABS (Bosch II or III depending on production date)
Traction Control:
Not typically available on 518/518i models.
Airbags:
Driver airbag became standard later in the E34's lifecycle, likely optional or unavailable for early 1988 models.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for exact specification.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 30,000-50,000 km (18,000-30,000 miles).
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-3 years or as per manual.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 depending on climate. Consult manual for precise BMW approval.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0-4.5 liters (4.2-4.8 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ZF TE-ML 11B or Dexron II (later recommendations may vary, consult manual).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Coolant System:
Plastic thermostat housings and expansion tanks can become brittle and crack over time. Water pump failure is also common. M20 engines are known for head gasket issues if overheated.
Electrical System:
Corrosion in wiring harnesses, failing fuel pump relays, dashboard warning lights (e.g., ABS, check engine), window regulator issues.
Engine M20:
Valve stem seals can degrade, leading to oil consumption. Timing belt replacement is critical; failure causes catastrophic engine damage. Eccentric shaft sensor (on later M20s) can fail.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and rear trailing arm bushings due to age and mileage.
Body:
Rust, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and door bottoms. Headliner sagging.
Parts Status:
Some specialized parts may be difficult to source, requiring specialist BMW suppliers or used parts.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', sport sedans, and engineering prowess.
E34 Introduction:
The E34 generation of the 5 Series replaced the E28 and was produced from 1988 to 1996. It marked a significant step forward in aerodynamics, chassis technology, and comfort.
518 518I Positioning:
The 518 and 518i were the entry-level models in the E34 lineup, offering the core BMW driving experience at a more accessible price point, primarily for European markets. The 'i' designation indicates fuel injection.
Production Period:
1988-1996 (E34 Generation)
Manufacturing Plants:
Dingolfing, Germany (Primary)
