Target Audience:
Owners and independent mechanics seeking in-depth repair and maintenance knowledge for the E34 520i.
Competitors 1989:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8, Jaguar XJ6.
Vehicle Philosophy:
BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, emphasizing performance, handling, and driver engagement.
Manual Advantage:
Provides factory-level accuracy and detail crucial for maintaining the complex systems of a BMW.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed information on engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, timing, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (likely Bosch Motronic), ignition system, sensor diagnostics, ECU troubleshooting.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, clutch service, driveshaft, differential.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake discs, pads, calipers, lines, master cylinder.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, linkages.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, battery, alternator, starter, fuses, relays, interior and exterior electrical components.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, chassis components, rust prevention.
Heating And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling (where applicable).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, belt replacements, fluid checks and changes.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement, adjustments, and major repairs.
Rebuilding:
Complete overhaul procedures for engine, transmission, and other major assemblies.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic information.
Quality:
High-quality PDF, allowing for clear viewing and printing. Searchable text for efficient information retrieval.
Print Readability:
Designed to be printable page by page or in its entirety, ensuring legibility for workshop use.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF format, user prints and binds as needed).
Paper Recommendation:
N/A (Digital PDF format, print on durable, grease-resistant paper for workshop use).
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, DOHC
Displacement:
1991 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
80.0 mm x 66.0 mm (Likely, verify with specific engine code)
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 9.7:1 (Verify with specific engine code)
Horsepower:
Approx. 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp) @ 5800 rpm (Verify with specific engine code)
Torque:
Approx. 19.1 kg⋅m (187 N⋅m; 138 lb⋅ft) @ 4300 rpm (Verify with specific engine code)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), likely Bosch Motronic M2.7 or M3.1
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 RON minimum)
Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy (likely for M50, cast iron for M20)
Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP22)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated
Rear Axle Ratio:
Typically around 3.46:1 (Varies by transmission and market, consult manual for specific ratios)
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data available for this specific year/model from modern agencies. Refer to contemporary road tests for insights.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option or standard on some trims.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (ASC) or ASC+T may be available on later models or as an option.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag may be standard or optional, passenger airbag not common for this year.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts front and rear.
Audio System:
Factory cassette or radio/cassette combination. Optional CD player integration was emerging.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control system.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control typically standard or optional.
Early Features:
Pre-dates modern smartphone integration and advanced connectivity features. Basic power accessories.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for specific intervals.
Spark Plugs:
Approximately every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs; platinum or iridium plugs can extend this. Consult manual for exact type and interval.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-40,000 miles (48,000-64,000 km). Use BMW-approved coolant.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended (check manual for exact viscosity based on climate).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 liters (4.8 - 5.3 US quarts) with filter (verify with manual).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (verify type and specification in manual).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent (consult manual for specific ZF fluid type).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW recommends specific coolant. (e.g., BMW Blue or Green coolant).
Common Problems:
Water pump failure, cooling fan clutch issues, coolant leaks (hose degradation), oil pan gasket leaks, fuel pump reliability, ABS sensor issues, wiring harness degradation (especially in engine bay), door seal wear.
E34 Specific Concerns:
Subframe mounting points can corrode; check for rust. Heater control valve failure. Rear spring perch rust.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing sporty, driver-focused luxury vehicles with advanced engineering.
E34 Introduction:
The E34 generation of the 5 Series debuted in 1987 (Europe) and 1988 (North America), replacing the E28. It represented a significant redesign with more aerodynamic styling and improved chassis dynamics.
E34 Distinction:
The E34 was the first 5 Series to offer all-wheel drive (525iX) and a V8 engine (530i/540i). The 520i was an entry-level model in many markets.
Production Years E34:
1987-1996
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany.
