Segment:
Luxury Executive Sedan.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 Quattro, Jaguar XJ.
Strengths:
Sporting dynamics, advanced engineering, build quality, and premium interior for its time.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for BMW's characteristic 'Ultimate Driving Machine' feel, precise steering, and balanced chassis.
Engine Performance:
Smooth and powerful inline-six engine, offering a good blend of performance and refinement.
Build Quality:
Exceptional build quality and durability, characteristic of German engineering.
Engine:
M20B25 inline-6 engine, including all mechanical, lubrication, cooling, and fuel/emission control systems.
Transmission:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission and ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission, including operation, diagnostics, and repair.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive system, including driveshaft, differential, and axles.
Suspension:
Front McPherson strut and rear independent suspension, including components, alignment, and adjustments.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake systems (likely vented front), including hydraulic, ABS (if equipped), and parking brake components.
Steering:
Power-assisted rack and pinion steering system.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive coverage of the entire electrical system, including battery, charging system, ignition, lighting, starting, and accessories.
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, exterior trim, doors, windows, and interior components.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, including air conditioning, heating, and ventilation components and troubleshooting.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, and fault code interpretation (for the era).
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, and brake pad service.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, and electrical component repair.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and fault finding for common and uncommon issues.
Diagnostics:
Methods for identifying and rectifying mechanical and electrical problems.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of BMW-specific special tools required for certain procedures.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for critical fasteners and components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic routines.
Engine Type:
Inline-6 Cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
2494 cc (2.5 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84 mm x 75 mm
Power Output:
171 PS (169 hp / 126 kW) at 5800 rpm (approx.)
Torque Output:
226 Nm (167 lb-ft) at 4300 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled
Type:
Getrag 260 5-Speed Manual
Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-Speed Automatic
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch (manual)
Final Drive Ratio:
Typically 3.46:1 for manual, 3.15:1 for automatic (varies by market and specific configuration).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW Synchromesh Fluid (e.g., ATF Dexron II/III equivalent for some applications, consult specific manual for exact PN/spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF Fluid (e.g., Dexron II/III equivalent)
Crash Test Era:
ERA: Safety standards were less stringent than today; focus on crumple zones and structural integrity.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often an optional or standard feature on higher trims.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag became available/standard later in the E34 generation, unlikely to be standard on all 1989 models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts.
Crumple Zones:
Designed with front and rear crumple zones for impact energy absorption.
Audio System:
Factory radio/cassette player, often with optional CD changer integration. Basic analog controls.
Display:
Minimal digital displays, primarily for clock and trip computer (if equipped). Analog gauges.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control was commonly available.
Parking Assistance:
N/A (No factory parking sensors or cameras).
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration from the factory).
Oil Change:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific BMW recommendations for the era.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000-50,000 km (18,000-30,000 miles), depending on plug type.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 40,000 km (24,000 miles).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Inspect, change as needed (e.g., 100,000 km / 60,000 miles). Automatic: Typically every 60,000-100,000 km (36,000-60,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting BMW Longlife-98 specifications (or equivalent API SG/SH).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol based) mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Water pump failure.
Electrical:
Wiring harness degradation, particularly in the engine bay. Fuel pump relay failure. Headlight switch issues.
Engine:
Oil pan gasket leaks. Valve stem seal wear causing blue smoke on startup (M20). Idle control valve issues.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings and ball joints. Sagging rear springs.
Interior:
Cracked dashboard (especially E34 specific 'leatherette'), worn seat bolsters, headliner sagging.
Legacy:
BMW, a brand renowned for performance, engineering, and luxury, with a long history of producing executive sedans and sports cars.
Generation:
E34 generation, succeeding the E28 5 Series and preceding the E39 5 Series.
Introduction Year:
The E34 generation was introduced in 1987 (Europe) and 1988 (North America).
Production Period:
E34 production ran from 1987 to 1996.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany.
Automotive Press Awards:
While specific awards for the 1989 525i are not widely documented as distinct entities, the E34 generation as a whole was highly praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and sophisticated design, consistently ranking among the best executive sedans of its era.
Consumer Reports Era:
Generally rated highly for performance and handling, with typical German car concerns regarding maintenance costs.
