Market Position:
The BMW 5 Series (E34) was positioned as a premium executive sedan and wagon, known for its driving dynamics, build quality, and technological advancements for its era. This manual caters to owners and technicians seeking in-depth knowledge to maintain and repair these sophisticated vehicles.
Competitive Analysis:
The E34 5 Series competed with established luxury marques such as Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi 100/A6, and Jaguar XJ. Its blend of performance, comfort, and advanced engineering made it a strong contender. This manual provides the critical technical data needed to keep these vehicles performing at their best.
Key Features Of E34:
Advanced independent suspension, potent inline-six and V8 engines, sophisticated electronics (for the time), excellent chassis balance, available xDrive all-wheel drive (later models), spacious and luxurious interior.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection (DME), ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust.
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (Getrag 260/5, 260/6), Automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22, 4HP24, 5HP18, 5HP30), clutch, differential, driveshafts.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (MacPherson struts, multi-link), steering system (rack and pinion, power steering).
Brake Systems:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, ECU, instrument cluster, power windows, mirrors, seats, central locking, sound system.
Body Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning).
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and replacements (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid), belt inspections and replacement, battery maintenance.
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head repair, fuel system troubleshooting and repair, ignition system diagnosis, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, bodywork repair.
Troubleshooting:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting charts.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and component-level repair.
File Format Details:
Typically PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing. Searchable text functionality is common for PDF manuals.
Print Quality Expectation:
High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and photographs. Professional layout and typography.
Binding Type For Printed Version:
Coil-bound or perfect-bound for durability and ease of use in a workshop environment.
Paper Type For Printed Version:
Durable, matte-finished paper resistant to grease and dirt commonly found in automotive repair settings.
Engine Families Covered:
M20 (2.0L, 2.5L inline-6), M30 (3.0L, 3.5L inline-6), M50 (2.0L, 2.5L, 2.8L inline-6 VANOS), M60 (3.0L, 4.0L V8), S38 (3.6L, 3.8L inline-6 M-tuned).
Typical Performance Range:
Horsepower: 129 hp (520i) to 310 hp (M5 3.8L). Torque: 180 Nm to 400 Nm. Specific figures vary significantly by engine and market.
Fuel System Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) via Bosch Motronic engine management systems (e.g., Motronic 1.1, 1.3, 1.5, 3.1, 3.3). Includes fuel pumps, injectors, fuel pressure regulators, and air flow meters/MAP sensors.
Ignition System Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on M50 engines and later, or traditional distributor with coil on older M20/M30 engines. Includes ignition coils, crank/cam sensors.
Cooling System Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with engine-driven fan or electric fan (thermo-viscous coupling or purely electric). Includes radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant expansion tank.
Lubrication System Type:
Wet sump lubrication with engine oil pump, oil filter, and oil cooler (on some high-performance variants).
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (e.g., Getrag 260/5, 260/6).
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22, 4HP24) and 5-speed automatic (ZF 5HP18, 5HP30) transmissions.
Transmission Features:
Limited-slip differential (LSD) available on M models and as an option. Self-adjusting clutch on manual transmissions.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90. Consult manual for specific model/transmission requirements.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II/III or equivalent. Specific ZF lifeguard fluids recommended for later models. Consult manual for precise specification.
Historical Safety Ratings:
While formal crash test ratings from organizations like NHTSA or IIHS were less standardized during the early part of this production run, the E34 was known for its robust construction and safety features for its time, including a strong safety cage.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models, Traction Control System (ASC/ASC+T) optional on some models.
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags (optional on early models, standard on later ones), front and rear crumple zones, side-impact protection beams, three-point seat belts with pretensioners.
Infotainment System:
Early E34 models featured basic AM/FM radios with cassette players. Later models offered improved radio/cassette or CD players, often with multi-speaker systems and onboard computer (BC) integration displaying fuel economy, range, and service reminders. Some offered premium sound systems by brands like Bavaria C.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards. Key features included ABS and optional ASC/ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control/Traction Control).
Connectivity Options:
No Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Early models had rudimentary remote keyless entry. Later models offered more advanced central locking and alarm systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 - 15,000 miles (12,000 - 24,000 km) or 12-24 months, depending on model year, engine, and driving conditions. Modern synthetic oils extend these intervals. Consult the manual for precise recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by spark plug type (copper, platinum, iridium). Platinum plugs typically 30,000-60,000 miles. Iridium or Long-life platinum plugs can extend to 100,000 miles. Check manual for specific engine/plug type.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles, using BMW-specified coolant (typically blue or green ethylene glycol based).
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage, due to hygroscopic nature of brake fluid.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3 rated synthetic or semi-synthetic oil. Viscosity grades typically SAE 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-40, 10W-50 depending on temperature and engine. BMW LL-98 specifications for later models.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) Dexron II/III compatible or BMW power steering fluid. Consult manual for specific model requirement.
Common Issues E34:
Headliner sagging, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid failure (on M50 engines), oil pan gasket leaks, coolant expansion tank cracking, ABS sensor failures, door seal degradation, OVP relay failure (on some models), fuel pump issues, ignition coil failure, idle control valve issues.
Common Issues E34 M50:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket are common. VANOS unit can rattle on startup or cause rough idle. Crankshaft position sensor failure can lead to no-start conditions.
Common Issues E34 M60 V8:
Timing chain guides (plastic) can degrade, leading to rattling and potential catastrophic failure. Head gasket issues can occur. Oil leaks are prevalent.
Valve Lash Adjustment Procedure:
Hydraulic lifters generally self-adjust. Valve lash check/adjustment procedures outlined for specific engines (e.g., M30 might have adjustable rocker arms requiring shims).
Brand Heritage Bmw:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, is a German luxury and performance vehicle manufacturer with a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, sporty handling, and driver-focused vehicles since its inception in 1916.
E34 Generation Evolution:
The E34 generation of the 5 Series, produced from 1987 to 1996 (marketed as 1988-1996 in North America), succeeded the E28 and was the first 5 Series to offer a V8 engine, all-wheel drive (xDrive), and a Touring (wagon) variant. It introduced significant aerodynamic improvements and electronic systems.
Production Years:
1981-1995 (This range in the product title is broader than the E34's actual production. The manual likely covers the E34 generation specifically, and perhaps some overlap with the end of the E28 or early E39 depending on precise publication scope. However, the core focus of '1981-1995' suggests it includes early E34 models and may even extend to cover some earlier 5 Series variants if it's a consolidated manual. Based on the 'E34' designation, the primary focus is 1987-1996. The manual's claim of '1981-1995' is a bit ambiguous; typically, a manual titled for a specific generation (like E34) would stick to its production years. For this analysis, we assume it covers the E34 generation primarily but acknowledges the broad claim.)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The BMW 5 Series (E34) was frequently honored by Car and Driver magazine, often appearing on their '10Best' list during its production run, particularly the 535i and M5 models, praised for their handling and performance.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While not the specific winner for Car of the Year during its entire run, the 5 Series generation consistently received high marks and comparisons in comparative tests with its rivals.
European Design Awards:
The E34's design, penned by Claus Luthe, was well-regarded and contributed to BMW's reputation for elegant and functional automotive styling.
