Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, independent repair shops, BMW owners seeking DIY repair and maintenance
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 Quattro, Lexus LS 400
Vehicle Appeal:
Blend of luxury, sportiness, and build quality characteristic of BMW sedans of this era
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential technical data for maintaining and repairing a classic BMW, saving significant costs compared to dealership service
Geographical Coverage:
Global (primarily European and North American specifications)
Vehicle Variants Covered:
All models, engines, trim levels, and transmission types for the 1990 BMW 525i
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 1500-2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Engine:
Engine mechanicals, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (EFI), ignition system, emission control systems
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Getrag 260), Automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22), clutch, driveline, differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (front McPherson strut, rear multi-link), steering system, braking system (ABS standard), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, warning indicators, basic comfort electronics, wiring diagrams
Body:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, windows, bumpers, interior trim, HVAC system (climate control)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections
Repair:
Component removal and installation, overhauls, adjustments, component-level repairs
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault finding charts, common problems and solutions
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable to the era, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, in-depth electrical troubleshooting
PDF Features:
Searchable text, bookmarked chapters, high-resolution diagrams and illustrations
Illustration Quality:
High-resolution, clear line drawings and photographic illustrations
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Engine Type:
Inline-6 Cylinder
Engine Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
168 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
164 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 equivalent), or equivalent 50/50 mix with distilled water
Oil Type:
SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check specific manual for exact BMW specification)
Oil Capacity:
5.7 Liters (6.0 US Quarts) with filter change
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260)
Type:
4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic Dry Single Plate
Manual Fluid Type:
BMW Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) LT-3 or equivalent, or Dexron II/III for some applications (verify in manual)
Automatic Fluid Type:
Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Rear Differential Type:
Limited Slip Differential (optional on some models, standard on others)
Rear Differential Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (API GL-5) or specific BMW fluid
Crash Test Data:
No official NHTSA/IIHS ratings from this era; general reputation for robust build quality
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Not commonly available on base 525i models of this year
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard; passenger airbag optional or unavailable depending on market
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts front and rear
Chassis Design:
Unitized steel body construction with crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM Cassette player with optional CD changer. Basic amplifier systems.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional Automatic Climate Control (ACC) with electronic sensors for cabin temperature.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Connectivity Features:
Limited to wired systems; no Bluetooth or USB connectivity
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact recommendation)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., copper vs. platinum)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II/III or CHF 11S depending on system type (verify in manual)
Common Problems:
Head gasket leaks (especially M20), cooling system component failure (water pump, thermostat, hoses), fuel pump and injector issues, ABS sensor failures, door seal degradation, suspension bushing wear, idle control valve issues
Typical Repairs:
Replacement of cooling system components, fuel injectors, fuel pump, ignition components (distributor, coil), control arms and bushings, master cylinder, water pump seal
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics ('The Ultimate Driving Machine')
E34 Introduction:
The E34 generation replaced the E28 5 Series and was produced from 1987 to 1996. It represented a significant advancement in aerodynamics, technology, and chassis design.
525I Positioning:
The 525i served as a core model in the E34 lineup, offering a balance of performance and efficiency powered by the M20 inline-six engine.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (primarily Dingolfing)
Automotive Journal Awards:
The E34 generation was highly acclaimed by automotive journalists upon release for its driving dynamics, refinement, and advanced engineering. Specific awards vary by publication and market.
Reliability Reputation:
Generally good reliability for the era, but requires diligent maintenance. Known common failure points require proactive attention.
