Positioning:
The BMW 5 Series (E34) was positioned as a mid-size luxury executive sedan, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced engineering, directly competing with rivals like the Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class and Audi V8 Quattro.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 Quattro, Jaguar XJ, Lexus LS 400 (later in the generation).
E34 Highlights:
Introduction of the multi-link rear suspension, improved aerodynamics, larger greenhouse for better visibility, sophisticated electronic management systems (e.g., ABS, optional traction control), and advanced engine technology for the era.
Engine Coverage:
M20B20 (1990cc, 2.0L) Inline-6, M20B25 (2494cc, 2.5L) Inline-6
Transmission Coverage:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual, ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic
Chassis Systems Coverage:
Suspension (front McPherson strut, rear multi-link), Steering (power assisted rack and pinion), Brakes (front vented discs, rear solid discs, ABS)
Electrical Systems Coverage:
Engine management, ignition, lighting, instrumentation, HVAC controls, power accessories, ABS control module
Body And Interior Coverage:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, HVAC ducting, sound deadening
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory manuals)
Type:
Factory Service and Repair Manual
All Major Systems:
Engine, drivetrain, chassis, electrical, body, HVAC, safety systems
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections and replacements
Engine Repair:
Complete engine overhauls, cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, timing chain/belt service, fuel injection system diagnosis and repair
Transmission Repair:
Manual and automatic transmission removal/installation, internal component repair and overhaul, clutch replacement, torque converter service
Brake System Repair:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake line replacement, ABS system troubleshooting and repair
Suspension Steering Repair:
Shock absorber and strut replacement, spring replacement, control arm bushing replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump and rack service
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting common electrical faults, starter and alternator service
Bodywork And Trim:
Door panel removal, window regulator repair, exterior trim replacement, bumper repair and replacement
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts, covering diagnostics, component replacement, and complete overhauls.
Format Details:
Digital PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing. Searchable text for quick information retrieval.
Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and illustrations.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF download)
Paper:
N/A (Digital PDF download)
Engine 518I:
M20B20, 2.0L (1990cc) Inline-6, SOHC, Bosch Motronic fuel injection.
Horsepower 518I:
Approx. 129 hp (96 kW) @ 6000 rpm
Torque 518I:
Approx. 174 Nm (128 lb-ft) @ 4300 rpm
Injection System:
Bosch Motronic M1.3 electronic fuel injection and ignition control
Other Engines In E34 Lineup:
M20B25 (2.5L), M30B35 (3.5L), M50B25 (2.5L DOHC - introduced later in the generation), M50B30 (3.0L DOHC - introduced later)
Transmission 518I Standard:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission
Transmission 518I Optional:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulic actuation
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic control, lock-up torque converter, sport mode (on some later models)
Crash Test Era:
While specific official crash test ratings like NHTSA or Euro NCAP were less standardized in 1989 compared to today, the E34 was engineered with a strong safety cage and advanced features for its time.
ABS:
Standard on most models, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) by Bosch
Traction Control:
Optional (ASC - Automatic Stability Control) on higher-spec models, available on some later 518i variants as an option or standard on M5.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag was optional and became more common later in the E34 production cycle. Passenger airbag was a rarer option.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners (front) and three-point seatbelts (rear).
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones (front and rear), integrated side-impact protection beams.
Radio Options:
BMW Bavaria C, Business Cassette, or Professional RDS cassette players with optional CD changers.
ABS Availability:
Standard feature on most 1989 models.
Cruise Control:
Optional on most models.
Cellular Integration:
N/A (No native cellular integration for the era).
HVAC System:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control) with recirculate function and cabin air filter (late E34 models).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first, with premium synthetic or semi-synthetic oil.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically at 40,000 - 60,000 km (25,000 - 37,000 miles) depending on plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 40,000 km (25,000 miles).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Inspect every 60,000 km (37,000 miles), change if necessary. Automatic: Every 80,000-100,000 km (50,000-60,000 miles) is recommended for longevity.
Engine Oil:
BMW High Performance SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (check owner's manual for specific approvals like BMW Longlife-98 or earlier specifications).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
CHF 11S (green) or an approved Dexron III automatic transmission fluid (check specific vehicle fill).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF Lifeguardfluid 4HP22 or equivalent ATF like Dexron II/III.
Engine M20:
Cooling system leaks (water pump, thermostat housing, hoses), head gasket issues if overheated, vacuum leaks causing idle problems, fuel injector seal leaks.
Electrical:
Corrosion in fuse box and connectors, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, ABS sensor failures, OBC (On-Board Computer) pixellation.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, worn shock absorbers, sagging rear springs, tie rod end wear.
Chassis:
Rust in common E34 areas (wheel wells, rocker panels, battery tray area), driveshaft center support bearing wear.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for building the 'Ultimate Driving Machine' with a focus on engineering excellence, performance, and driver engagement.
E34 Generation:
The E34 generation replaced the E28 and was produced from 1987 to 1996. It represented a significant leap forward in design, technology, and chassis dynamics for the BMW 5 Series.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany. Also produced in Rosslyn, South Africa and Spartanburg, USA (for the US market).
E34 Production Years:
1987-1996 (sedan), 1990-1996 (touring wagon)
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The E34 generation consistently received accolades, often being named to Car and Driver's '10 Best' list in the early years of its production run for its driving dynamics and build quality.
Industry Reviews:
Praised by automotive journalists for its excellent handling, sophisticated ride quality, powerful engines (especially the 6-cylinder variants), and luxurious yet driver-focused interior.
