🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

518i

Year:

1989

Chassis Code:

E34

Engine Code Common:

M20B20 (Variant of)

Engine Code Specific:

Likely M20B20 variant, refer to manual for exact designation

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive/Luxury Sedan

Brand Image:

BMW's reputation for driving dynamics, build quality, and sophisticated engineering.

Competitors 1989:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8, Jaguar XJ6, Lexus LS 400 (introduced late 1989).

Vehicle Focus:

The 518i represented an entry-level model in the E34 5 Series lineup, offering BMW's signature driving experience at a more accessible price point.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential information for owners to maintain and repair this classic BMW, preserving its performance and value.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive Service and Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Rebuilding, Refurbishing, Restoration

Estimated Page Count:

500-800 (Typical for full service manuals of this era)

Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Likely PDF, possibility of print)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanicals, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, camshafts, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (Getrag 260 typically), Automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22 typically), clutch system, driveshafts, differentials.

Chassis Suspension:

Front and rear suspension, control arms, bushings, springs, shock absorbers, anti-roll bars, steering system (power steering rack and pump), wheel bearings.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (if equipped), brake calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake system.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, engine control unit (ECU), sensors, actuators, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, mirrors, central locking, instrument cluster, fuse box diagrams, wiring schematics.

Bodywork:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals, interior trim, upholstery, climate control system (HVAC), heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant system.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, belt inspections and replacement, tune-ups.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic procedures for engine performance issues, electrical faults, transmission issues, ABS faults. Likely includes diagnostic connector locations and basic OBD-I (if applicable for the year/model).

Repair Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair.

Restoration:

Detailed guidance for refurbishing and restoring various vehicle systems to original specifications.

Depth:

Extensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Designed for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Quality:

High-resolution scans, searchable text (if OCRed), printable pages.

Print Considerations:

Durable binding suitable for workshop use, clear diagrams and illustrations, high-quality paper for longevity.

Binding:

Spiral-bound or comb-bound for lay-flat use in a workshop environment (common for aftermarket manuals).

Paper Quality:

Matte finish, durable paper stock to withstand grease and oil.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-6 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1796 cc) - Note: US spec 518i was rare, typically 2.0L or higher. This manual likely pertains to a European market 518i or covers the engine base family.

Bore X Stroke:

Refer to manual for exact M20B20 variant specifications.

Compression Ratio:

Refer to manual for exact M20B20 variant specifications.

Horsepower Approx:

Approx. 100-115 PS (74-85 kW) for a 1.8L M20 variant. Refer to manual for exact figures.

Torque Approx:

Approx. 140-155 Nm (103-114 lb-ft) for a 1.8L M20 variant. Refer to manual for exact figures.

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection system.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline.

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 70 liters (18.5 US gallons). Refer to manual for exact capacity.

🔧 Transmission

Type Standard:

5-speed manual transmission (Likely Getrag 260).

Type Optional:

4-speed automatic transmission (Likely ZF 4HP22).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Refer to manual for specific fluid types (e.g., ATF Dexron III for automatic).

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4720 mm (185.8 in) for E34 sedan.

Width:

Approx. 1750 mm (68.9 in) for E34 sedan.

Height:

Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in) for E34 sedan.

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in) for E34 sedan.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1350-1450 kg (2976-3197 lbs). Refer to manual for exact specification.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to manual for exact GVWR.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards Era:

Designed to meet 1980s safety standards. ABS was an option on some E34 models.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option, particularly on higher-spec models.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag not standard in 1989 for most E34 models; became available later. Refer to manual for specific equipment.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia reel seatbelts for front occupants, two-point lap belts for rear passengers (three-point belts might be available for rear outboard seats). Refer to manual for exact configuration.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM cassette player, possibly with premium sound options (e.g., HiFi system). Upgrade options available.

Navigation:

Navigation systems were not standard and very rudimentary, if available at all, in 1989. Likely dealer-installed option at best.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option.

Parking Sensors:

Not available in 1989.

Bluetooth Usb:

Not available. Aftermarket integration is required.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles) or annually. Refer to manual for exact interval and oil type.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual; typically around 30,000 - 50,000 km depending on plug type.

Coolant Flush:

Refer to manual; typically every 2-3 years or specified mileage.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5-5.0 liters (4.8-5.3 US quarts) with filter. Refer to manual for exact capacity and API rating (e.g., API SG/SH).

Coolant Type:

BMW coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Refer to manual for exact BMW specification (e.g., G48).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Refer to manual for precise specification and change interval.

Common E34 Issues General:

Cooling system (cracked expansion tanks, failing water pumps), fuel pump failures, window regulator failures, door handle issues, rust (especially around wheel arches and sills), VANOS unit issues (on later M50 engines, not applicable to M20), ABS sensor failures.

M20 Engine Specific Issues:

Head gasket issues, timing belt maintenance (crucial), fuel injector issues, idle control valve problems.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's legacy of engineering excellence, performance, and driver engagement.

E34 Introduction:

The E34 generation replaced the E28 5 Series and was introduced in 1988 (as a 1989 model year in North America). It marked a significant step in design and technology for the 5 Series.

E34 Design:

Designed by Ercole Spada, the E34 featured a more aerodynamic and integrated design compared to its predecessor.

E34 Production Years:

1988-1996.

E34 Manufacturing Locations:

Mainly Dingolfing, Germany, with some assembly in other locations globally.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E34 Reputation:

The E34 generation was generally praised for its refined ride, handling, and build quality. It continued BMW's success in the mid-size luxury segment.

Car And Driver E34:

Car and Driver magazine often included E34 models in their annual '10Best' lists in the early 1990s.