Vehicle Segment:
Executive/Luxury Mid-size Sedan
Key Competitors Era:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 Quattro (D1), Jaguar XJ40, Volvo 740/760
E34 Platform Highlights:
Renowned for its solid build quality, refined driving dynamics, and sophisticated design, representing a peak in BMW's engineering for the era.
Target Audience:
BMW E34 owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops specializing in European vehicles.
Engine Systems:
Engine Mechanical, Fuel System (EFI), Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, Manual Transmission, Driveshafts, Rear Axle Differential
Chassis Systems:
Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering System, Hydraulic Brake System, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical Systems:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Ignition Switch, Wiring Diagrams, Fuses and Relays, Instrument Cluster, Warning Lights
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flush, Brake Fluid Flush, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine Overhaul (Rebuild), Cylinder Head Removal/Installation, Piston/Cylinder Work, Transmission Removal/Installation, Clutch Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis/Repair
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Electrical Circuit Tracing, Engine Performance Diagnostics
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Documentation Style:
Step-by-step instructions with detailed diagrams and illustrations
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder
Engine Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1796 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 113 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 164 Nm (121 lb-ft) @ 4250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per market)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor (depending on exact build date/market)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.25 Liters (4.5 US Quarts) with filter
Recommended Oil Grade:
API SG or ACEA A2/B2, Viscosity 10W-40 or 5W-40 (refer to manual for precise BMW specifications)
Transmission Type:
Getrag 260 5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
ZF 4HP22 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (BMW Part No. 81 32 1 468 418 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Dexron III/Mercon Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Length:
Approx. 4720 mm (185.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 1751 mm (68.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in)
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 1400 kg (3086 lbs)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
Tire Sizes Standard:
195/65R15
Safety Structure Design:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Braking System:
Hydraulic, front vented discs, rear solid discs. ABS optional/standard depending on market.
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard from late 1990 onwards; passenger airbag optional.
Audio System:
Factory fitted cassette/radio systems, often with optional CD changer integration.
ABS Availability:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional extra during these model years, becoming more common on later E34s.
Cruise Control:
Optional feature on some models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-15,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approx. 30,000-60,000 miles (50,000-100,000 km) for standard plugs; consult manual for specific type.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (50,000 km).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (BMW High Performance Brake Fluid)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
CHF 11S or Pentosin PSF (refer to manual for exact BMW specification)
Common E34 Issues:
Cooling system (hose leaks, water pump failure), OBC (On-Board Computer) pixelation, VANOS unit issues (on later 6-cylinder models, less relevant for M40), rust (wheel arches, rocker panels), fuel pump failure, transmission mount wear.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, has a long history of producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles, emphasizing driving pleasure ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').
E34 Introduction:
The E34 generation of the 5 Series was introduced in 1987 (as a 1988 model in North America) and ran until 1995. It succeeded the E28 and was known for its sleek design and improved aerodynamics.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary production in Dingolfing, Germany. Assembly also occurred in other BMW plants globally.
