Target Audience:
BMW enthusiasts, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124, Audi V8 Quattro, Lexus LS 400 (later models)
Vehicle Highlights:
Renowned for its driving dynamics, build quality, and sophisticated engineering typical of BMW.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical knowledge to maintain and repair a classic BMW, saving on dealership service costs.
Engine:
Complete engine mechanicals, diagnostics, tuning, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust, emissions
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, overhaul, diagnosis, fluid changes
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differentials, axle repairs
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, steering system, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), disc and drum brake service, components
Electrical:
Full wiring diagrams, component testing, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, ignition, instrumentation
Body:
Body and chassis repairs, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC, exterior panels
Heating And Air Conditioning:
Component diagnosis, refrigerant service, system repair
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting guides and flowcharts
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems
Overhaul:
Complete engine, transmission, and differential overhaul instructions
Diagnostics:
Fault code identification, sensor testing, wiring harness checks
Specifications Data:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, pressures, electrical data
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Inline-6 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2.986 Liters (3.0 L)
Horsepower Net:
189 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)
Torque Net:
214 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol based)
Oil Type:
SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific climate/use recommendations)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Type:
Getrag 260 5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Manual Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II (or compatible, consult manual for exact spec)
Automatic Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II (or compatible, consult manual for exact spec)
Differential Fluid Type:
Hypoid Gear Oil SAE 75W-90 GL-5
Length:
Approx. 4720 mm (185.8 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1750 mm (68.9 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 inches)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1550-1650 kg (3417-3638 lbs), depending on transmission and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2000 kg (4409 lbs)
Crash Test Data:
No standardized crash test data (like NHTSA/IIHS) available for this era, but known for robust construction.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Automatic Stability Control (ASC) on some later models or export markets.
Airbags:
Driver airbag became standard later in the E34 lifecycle, check specific vehicle build.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months (check manual for specific driving conditions)
Spark Plugs:
Replace approx. every 30,000 miles (check manual for specific type)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (or DOT 3 if specified for certain ABS systems)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II (or compatible)
Common Problems:
Cooling system (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel pump, vacuum leaks, idle control valve issues, door seal degradation, wiring harness insulation breakdown (especially in engine bay).
Dashboard Pixel Failure:
Common on E34 models, affecting the instrument cluster display.
Wheel Lug Bolt Torque:
120 Nm (88.5 ft-lbs) (typical for BMW wheel bolts)
Bmw Philosophy:
The 'Ultimate Driving Machine' – focus on performance, handling, and engineering excellence.
E34 Introduction:
The E34 chassis, launched in 1987 (for 1988 model year in North America), represented a significant evolution in BMW's mid-size sedan lineup, building on the success of the E28.
530I Positioning:
The 530i, featuring the robust M30 inline-six, offered a strong blend of performance and refinement, slotting below the more powerful 535i.
Production Years E34:
1987-1996 (Globally)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing Plant), Austria (Steyr), South Africa, Thailand
