🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

520i

Chassis Code:

E34

Generation Code:

E34

Generation Years:

1987-1996

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Executive Sedan / Mid-size Luxury Sedan

Competitive Landscape:

Competed against models like Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 Quattro, Lexus LS 400 (late E34 generation).

Design Philosophy:

BMW's signature driving dynamics, driver-focused interior, and robust build quality.

Performance Emphasis:

Balanced handling, smooth ride, and responsive inline-six engines.

📋 Manual Details

Applicable Model Years:

1988, 1989, 1990, 1991

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific edition, typically 500-1000+ pages for a comprehensive workshop manual.

Manual Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English (Standard for this market)

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection system (Motronic), ignition system, sensors, ECU diagnostics and troubleshooting.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox overhaul, shift linkage, lubrication.

Transmission Automatic:

ATF specifications, torque converter, transmission overhaul, electronic control.

Drivetrain And Axles:

Driveshafts, CV joints, differential, rear axle assembly.

Suspension System:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, anti-roll bars.

Steering System:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column.

Braking System:

Brake hydraulics, master cylinder, calipers, pads, rotors, ABS system, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting systems.

Climate Control:

HVAC system components, refrigerant handling, heater core, A/C compressor.

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, chassis lubrication.

Safety Systems:

Seat belts, airbags (if equipped on later models), ABS.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement.

Engine Repair:

Engine rebuild procedures, head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, valve adjustments.

Transmission Repair:

Transmission removal and installation, clutch replacement, automatic transmission servicing and overhaul.

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake fluid flush, caliper and master cylinder rebuilding, ABS component testing.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Component replacement (ball joints, tie rods, shocks), power steering system service, alignment procedures.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Diagnosis of electrical faults using wiring diagrams, component testing, relay and fuse identification.

Fuel System Servicing:

Fuel injector cleaning, fuel pump replacement, fuel filter replacement.

Cooling System Repair:

Radiator replacement, water pump replacement, thermostat replacement, coolant flush.

Body Work And Trim:

Door panel removal, interior trim installation, minor body panel alignment.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Detailed troubleshooting charts and diagnostic steps for common issues.

Torque Specifications:

Includes specific torque values for critical fasteners throughout the vehicle.

Special Tools:

Lists and descriptions of specialized tools required for certain procedures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed, high-quality electrical wiring diagrams for all systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Digital Resolution:

High-resolution, suitable for digital viewing and printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Searchable Text:

Typically includes searchable text for quick information retrieval.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Common:

M20B20 (for earlier E34 520i), M50B20 (introduced later in the E34 lifecycle, especially relevant for later 1988-1991 models).

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 Valves (M50 variant)

Displacement Cc:

1990 cc (for M50B20)

Horsepower Ps:

Approx. 150 PS (M50B20)

Torque Nm:

Approx. 190 Nm (M50B20)

Fuel Injection:

Bosch Motronic (e.g., Motronic M1.3 or M2.5 depending on exact model year)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (RON 95 or higher recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP22)

Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:

Dexron II or equivalent (check specific manual for exact type and capacity)

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm:

Approx. 4720 mm

Width Mm:

Approx. 1750 mm

Height Mm:

Approx. 1410 mm

Curb Weight Kg:

Approx. 1450-1550 kg (depending on transmission and options)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

While specific ratings for this era are limited by modern standards, the E34 was designed with a strong safety cage and impact-absorbing zones. Refer to the manual for specific passive safety system details.

Traction Control:

Optional ASC/ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control / with Traction) on some models

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag became standard on later models within this range; passenger airbags were often optional.

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners (front).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-fitted cassette player or CD player with AM/FM radio, often with premium sound options like Nakamichi.

Climate Control Type:

Manual or optional Automatic Climate Control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control).

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Onboard Computer:

Optional OBC (On-Board Computer) providing fuel consumption, range, and basic diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Km:

Typically 10,000-15,000 km or annually (refer to manual for exact BMW service indicator recommendations).

Spark Plug Replacement Km:

Approx. 30,000-40,000 km (depending on plug type, e.g., standard vs. platinum).

Engine Oil Spec:

BMW High Performance SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (API SH/SJ or ACEA A2/A3). Always verify with the specific manual.

Coolant Spec:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant. 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4

Common Wear Items:

Suspension bushings (control arms, sway bars), cooling system components (hoses, expansion tank, water pump), fuel pump, ABS sensors, valve cover gasket leaks.

Electrical Quirks:

Instrument cluster illumination issues, door lock actuators, window regulators.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused sports sedans with excellent engineering and performance.

E34 Introduction:

The E34 generation, launched in 1987 (for the 1988 model year), was a significant evolution from the E28, offering improved aerodynamics, chassis dynamics, and a more refined interior. It marked BMW's continued dominance in the executive sedan segment.

Production Years:

1987-1996

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (primarily Dingolfing)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

The E34 generation was widely praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and build quality, contributing to BMW's reputation as a leading luxury performance brand. Specific awards may vary but it consistently ranked high in its class.