Positioning:
The BMW 520i (E34) was positioned as a premium mid-size luxury sedan, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and sophisticated engineering.
Competitors:
Competed with other luxury sedans of its era, such as the Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, and Jaguar XJ.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos with a focus on handling, driver engagement, and build quality.
Technology Intro:
Introduced advanced features for its time, including optional ABS, onboard computer, and improved aerodynamics.
Engine:
M20B20 2.0L inline-6, Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Engine Management (DME)
Transmission:
Getrag 260 5-speed Manual, ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission
Drivetrain:
Rear Wheel Drive (RWD), Driveshafts, Differential, Axles
Suspension:
Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Multi-link Suspension, Springs, Dampers, Bushings
Steering:
Hydraulic Power Steering System, Steering Rack, Column
Brakes:
Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) System, Brake Hydraulics, Parking Brake
Electrical:
Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Lighting System, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams, Instrument Cluster, Wiper/Washer System, Horn
Body And Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Interior Trim, Underbody Coatings
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (Manual Climate Control)
Fuel System:
Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump, Fuel Injectors, Fuel Lines, Fuel Filter
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Coolant Hoses, Expansion Tank
Maintenance:
Routine Maintenance Checks, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Adjustments
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Code Interpretation, Common Problems and Solutions
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Reassembly Procedures, Torque Specifications
Diagnostics:
Engine Diagnostics, Electrical System Diagnostics, ABS Diagnostics
Overhaul Rebuild:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild (detailed steps)
Adjustments:
Valve Clearance Adjustments (if applicable), Idle Speed Adjustments, Clutch Adjustment
Specifications:
Torque Values, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Resistances
Body Repair:
Panel alignment, rust repair techniques, door mechanisms, glass replacement.
HVAC Repair:
Blower motor replacement, heater core service, AC system service (refrigerant, compressor).
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and wiring diagrams.
Crash Test Era:
Older models often lack standardized ratings like NHTSA/Euro NCAP, but were built to robust European standards of the time.
ABS:
Optional Bosch ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Not typically available on the 520i model.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag was an option and became more common in later E34 models, but not standard on early 520i.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger safety cell, energy-absorbing crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, depending on usage and oil quality.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000-50,000 km (18,000-30,000 miles) or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 50,000-100,000 km (30,000-60,000 miles) depending on plug type (standard vs. long-life).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or 40,000-60,000 km (24,000-36,000 miles).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 depending on climate. Synthetic recommended.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.25 Liters (4.5 US Quarts) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Wear Items:
Coolant hoses (especially lower radiator hose), vacuum lines, fuel pump, front control arm bushings, eccentric shaft sensor (later models).
Electrical Quirks:
Corrosion in fuse box, faulty climate control panels, deteriorating wiring insulation over time.
Engine Specific:
M20 engines are generally robust but can suffer from head gasket issues if overheated, and oil leaks from seals.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long history of producing performance-oriented luxury sedans, known for engineering prowess and driver involvement.
E34 Introduction:
The E34 generation of the 5 Series was introduced in 1987 (Europe) / 1988 (North America) as a successor to the E28.
E34 Design:
Characterized by a cleaner, more aerodynamic design penned by Ercole Spada and BMW's design team, featuring a lower drag coefficient than its predecessor.
Production Period:
E34 production spanned from 1987 to 1996.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany (Dingolfing Plant) and also assembled in other locations worldwide.
