Positioning:
Premium executive sedan, known for its driving dynamics and build quality.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124), Audi V8 (Type 44), Lexus LS 400 (from 1989)
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for balanced chassis, precise steering, and comfortable ride.
Engine Performance:
Smooth and powerful M30 inline-six engine.
Build Quality:
Exceptional German engineering and material quality.
Value Proposition:
Essential resource for preserving the performance and longevity of a classic BMW.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Maintenance, and Repair
Scope:
Comprehensive for 535i (E34) models
Estimated Pages:
High (specific count not provided, but described as comprehensive)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Likely Digital (PDF) or Printed Book
Engine:
M30B35 Engine (3.5L Inline-6), including fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmission servicing, repair, and diagnostics
Drivetrain:
Rear Wheel Drive, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles
Suspension:
Front and Rear Suspension, Steering System (including power steering)
Brakes:
Brake System (Disc Brakes front and rear), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) if equipped
Electrical:
Complete Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instrumentation, ECU (DME), Battery, Alternator, Starter
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seals, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Body Repair
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning System
Fuel System:
Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump, Fuel Lines, Fuel Injectors, Fuel Pressure Regulator
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault finding, error code interpretation
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems
Rebuilding:
Engine, transmission, and major component rebuilding procedures
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for engine management and other systems
Exploratory:
Exploded views for component identification and assembly
Depth:
Highly detailed, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complex component overhaul.
Target Audience:
Professional Technicians and Enthusiast DIYers
Digital Format:
Likely PDF (Searchable text is a common feature of quality digital manuals)
Print Quality:
Assumed High Quality (if printed), clear diagrams and text
Binding:
Likely Perfect Bound or Spiral Bound (for durability in workshop environments)
Paper Quality:
Durable paper stock, resistant to grease and shop fluids (if printed)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 (SOHC)
Displacement:
3.430 cc (3.4 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Horsepower Output:
Approximately 208-211 hp @ 5700 rpm (depending on market specification)
Torque Output:
Approximately 224-228 lb-ft (304-309 Nm) @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Fuel Injection (MFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Glysantin G48 equivalent) or compatible silicate-free ethylene glycol coolant
Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30, 10W-40, or 15W-50 depending on climate. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
ECU System:
Motronic (Digital Motor Electronics)
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 265)
Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP-22 EH)
Manual Gearing:
Close-ratio options available; features 'dog-leg' first gear on some models.
Automatic Features:
Electronic control (EH), Sport mode
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 Gear Oil (e.g., Castrol TAF-X, Pentosin MTF 2)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF
Length:
Approximately 4,720 mm (185.8 in)
Width:
Approximately 1,751 mm (68.9 in)
Height:
Approximately 1,412 mm (55.6 in)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2,761 mm (108.7 in)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1,500 - 1,650 kg (3,300 - 3,600 lbs), depending on equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by specification, consult manual for exact figure
Crash Test Results:
No specific modern crash test ratings available as it predates rigorous testing standards. Known for robust body structure.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models
Traction Control:
Optional ASC (Automatic Stability Control) on later models
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard from late 1990/early 1991 model year onwards; optional on earlier versions.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear
Chassis Design:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory BMW sound systems (e.g., Bavaria C, Professional RDS), optional CD changers.
Climate Control:
Optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control)
Cruise Control:
Standard on most 535i models.
Onboard Computer:
Optional Check Control system for monitoring vehicle status.
Early Features:
Basic telecommunications systems were not standard; aftermarket integration is common.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500-10,000 miles or 12-15,000 km (consult manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; often around 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years (moisture absorption).
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Cooling System Leaks:
Cracked plastic coolant reservoir, hose failures, water pump issues are common due to age.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, front and rear main seals.
Fuel System Components:
Fuel pump, fuel accumulator, and injector seals can degrade over time.
Suspension Wear:
Control arm bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers commonly wear out.
Electrical Gremlins:
Wire harness degradation, sensor failures, and intermittent electrical issues are not uncommon in older vehicles.
Dashboard Pixels:
Instrument cluster LCD pixel degradation is a known E34 issue.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.
E34 Development:
Successor to the E28 5-Series, introduced in 1987 (1988 model year in North America). Known for improved aerodynamics, handling, and technology.
E34 Facelift:
Facelifted in 1994, introducing redesigned bumpers, mirrors, and updated electronics (not relevant to this manual's coverage).
Production Period:
1988-1996 (for E34 generation worldwide)
Manufacturing Locations:
Mainly Dingolfing, Germany; also South Africa, Egypt, Mexico, Thailand.
Contemporary Reviews:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and sophisticated design.
Automotive Lists:
Frequently featured on 'best cars of the 80s/90s' lists for its enduring appeal and performance.
Engine Durability:
M30 engine is renowned for its robustness and longevity when properly maintained.
