🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M5

Model Code:

E34

Year:

1989

Chassis Code:

E34

Engine Code Identifier:

S38B36 (3.6L)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional technicians working on the E34 M5

Value Proposition:

Provides factory-level repair information, enabling independent servicing and maintenance, saving costs, and increasing vehicle knowledge.

Differentiation:

Vehicle-specific, not generic; equivalent to dealer technician manual; digital format offers convenience and pristine condition.

Instruction Style:

Complete step-by-step instructions

Information Density:

Everything needed on one easy-to-use PDF

Usability:

Print only needed pages, no greasy or torn pages

📋 Manual Details

Comprehensive Coverage:

All models and all repairs A-Z for the 1989 BMW M5 E34

Region Specific:

Vehicle-specific, not generic

Estimated Page Count:

Thousands (typical for factory service manuals)

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Control System, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition Starting Charging, Auto Transmission, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension

Chassis And Body:

Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering, Exterior & Interior, Engine Hood/ Door, Windshield/Glass Mirror

Electrical And Electronics:

Electrical, Multiplex/ CAN Communication, Meter Audio/Visual, Horn, Instrument Panel

Comfort And Convenience:

Air Condition, Suppl Restraint System, Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Seat

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation

Repair And Rebuild:

Complete step-by-step instructions for disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all vehicle components

Installation:

Instructions for installing replacement parts and accessories

Depth:

Factory-level, detailed, including advanced diagnostics and rebuild procedures

Illustrations:

Diagrams and illustrations for all procedures

Schematics:

Complete wiring schematics

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable within PDF

Printability:

All pages printable

Magnification:

Images can be blown up and printed enlarged

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

PDF Reader:

Adobe PDF Reader (free online)

Compression:

Winzip (free online) potentially for download package

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6

Engine Code:

S38B36

Displacement:

3.6 Liters (3535 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

94.4 mm x 85.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Horsepower:

315 hp @ 6,700 rpm (DIN)

Torque:

360 Nm (266 lb-ft) @ 4,800 rpm (DIN)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

Ignition System:

Distributorless ignition (dual ignition coils)

Cooling System Type:

Liquid-cooled, pressurized

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 7.0 liters (7.4 US quarts) with filter change

Oil Type Specification:

BMW Longlife-98 or equivalent, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for exact spec based on climate)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 290/5)

Type:

None offered for 1989 M5 E34

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

Gear Ratios:

Refer to manual for specific gear ratios (e.g., 3.03/1.77/1.23/1.00/0.81)

Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (refer to manual)

Capacity:

Approximately 1.5 liters

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4730 mm (186.2 in)

Width:

1750 mm (68.9 in)

Height:

1430 mm (56.3 in)

Wheelbase:

2830 mm (111.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1700 kg (3748 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Refer to manual

Front Axle Load Limit:

Refer to manual

Rear Axle Load Limit:

Refer to manual

Trunk Volume:

Approximately 450 liters (15.9 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited official crash test data for this era and model, but E34 chassis was engineered with advanced safety features for its time.

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard

Suspension:

Sport-tuned independent suspension for enhanced handling and stability

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag likely optional or not standard; refer to manual for confirmation.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Premium sound system (e.g., Nakamichi or BMW Bavaria C Professional) likely optional; analog radio and cassette player standard

Cruise Control:

Standard feature on M5 models

Traction Control:

ASC (Automatic Stability Control) may be optional or not present on early 1989 models; manual will detail if equipped.

Connectivity Features:

No modern connectivity features (e.g., Bluetooth, USB); analog systems only.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise recommendation)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles) for platinum plugs, more frequently for standard plugs (check manual)

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Central Hydraulic Fluid (CHF 11S or equivalent) or Pentosin 11S (refer to manual for exact type)

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4

Engine Mounts:

Can degrade over time, leading to vibrations

Cooling System:

Radiator, hoses, and water pump can be sources of leaks; thermostat can fail

Suspension:

Control arm bushings, ball joints, and rear shock mounts are common wear items

Electrical System:

Wiring harness issues, aging sensors, and fuel pump failures can occur

Idle Control Valve:

Can become sticky, causing rough idling

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW)

Reputation:

Renowned for performance, engineering, and luxury automobiles, particularly in the sports sedan segment.

Predecessor:

BMW M5 E28

Successor:

BMW M5 E39

Production Period:

1988-1992 (for E34 M5)

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

Production Volume:

Approximately 12,000 units worldwide

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Performance Accolades:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its blend of supercar performance and sedan practicality; considered a benchmark sports sedan of its era.

General Perception:

Highly regarded among automotive enthusiasts for its driving dynamics and understated performance.

Manual Certification:

Factory original service manual content, ensuring accuracy and completeness.