🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Chassis Code:

E34

Model Variant:

518i

Product Name:

BMW 5 Series (E34) 518i 1990-1991 Service Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Entry-level model in the E34 5 Series lineup, offering BMW's renowned driving dynamics and build quality at a more accessible price point.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Volvo 240/740 series, Jaguar XJ6 (XJ40).

Distinctive Features:

Excellent chassis balance, driver-focused interior, strong build quality, reliable M40 engine, rear-wheel drive dynamics.

Audience:

Enthusiasts seeking a reliable, comfortable, and engaging executive sedan with the characteristic BMW driving experience.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

M40B18 engine (1.8L inline-4)

Transmission Coverage:

Manual (Getrag 260) and Automatic (ZF 4HP22 EH) transmissions

Chassis Systems Coverage:

Suspension, steering, brakes, exhaust

Electrical Systems Coverage:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, starter, charging system, ECUs (DME)

Body And Interior Coverage:

Body panels, doors, windows, seats, HVAC, fuel system, cooling system

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 500-800+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF (Instant Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, lubrication, cooling

Engine Management:

DME (Digital Motor Electronics) control, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition timing, sensors, actuators

Transmission Mechanical:

Clutch, gearbox components, differential, driveshafts

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic gearbox operation, hydraulic control, torque converter, shift solenoids

Brake System:

Front and rear brake calipers, rotors, pads, hydraulic lines, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) if equipped

Steering System:

Steering rack, power steering pump, tie rods, steering column

Suspension System:

Front and rear struts, springs, control arms, bushings, sway bars

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel injectors

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan

HVAC System:

Heater core, blower motor, climate control unit, refrigerant system (if applicable)

Body And Trim:

Door mechanisms, window regulators, exterior trim, interior panels

Lighting System:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, fog lights

Ignition System:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor (early models), ignition control modules

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, belt inspection/replacement

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues

Repair Procedures:

Engine component removal/installation (e.g., cylinder head, oil pan), transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement

Adjustment Procedures:

Valve clearance adjustment, idle speed adjustment, brake pad adjustment

Wiring Diagram Interpretation:

Detailed schematics for all electrical circuits

Depth:

Comprehensive; covers routine maintenance to major component overhaul and diagnostics.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Detailed procedures for using diagnostic tools (e.g., scan tools for DME) and interpreting sensor data.

Torque Specifications:

Specific torque values for all critical fasteners.

Clearances And Tolerances:

Engine internal clearances, brake shoe adjustments, etc.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable due to digital nature.

Quality:

High resolution scans suitable for printing.

Binding:

Not applicable (Digital PDF)

Paper:

Not applicable (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M40B18

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, 8-valve SOHC

Displacement:

1796 cc (1.8 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84 mm x 81 mm

Horsepower Hp:

113 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque Lb-Ft:

164 Nm (121 lb-ft) @ 4300 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic M1.3 Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (95 RON recommended)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless ignition (DIS) or Distributor-based ignition system depending on exact build date/market

Cooling Type:

Water-cooled

Oil Capacity Liters:

4.0 liters (with filter)

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (API SG or higher)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed Manual

Transmission Type:

ZF 4HP22 EH 4-speed Automatic

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

Automatic Features:

Electronic control (EH), sport/economy modes (on some variants)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF Dexron III

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm:

4734 mm (186.4 in)

Width Mm:

1751 mm (68.9 in)

Height Mm:

1413 mm (55.6 in)

Wheelbase Mm:

2760 mm (108.7 in)

Curb Weight Kg:

~1450 kg (3197 lbs) - varies by equipment

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:

Approx. 1900-2000 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Not specifically rated by NHTSA for this model year, but E34 chassis generally considered robust.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some models.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag available as an option; passenger airbag generally not available for early E34 models.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD changer.

Display:

Basic LED/LCD displays for climate control and radio, instrument cluster.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional cruise control system.

Telephony:

No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity. Optional older car phone systems may have been fitted.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Km:

Every 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months (depending on driving conditions).

Spark Plug Replacement Km:

Every 40,000-60,000 km (depending on plug type).

Air Filter Replacement Km:

Every 20,000-30,000 km or annually.

Fuel Filter Replacement Km:

Every 40,000-60,000 km.

Coolant Flush Interval Km:

Every 2 years or 40,000 km.

Brake Fluid Change Interval Years:

Every 2 years.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, BMW recommended or equivalent (e.g., G48).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II or III (check specific manual recommendation)

Common Engine Problems:

Head gasket leaks, oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan, thermostat housing leaks, idle control valve issues, vacuum leaks.

Common Electrical Problems:

Corroded wiring harness connectors, failing fuel pump relays, dashboard warning light malfunctions, ABS sensor issues.

Common Chassis Problems:

Worn suspension bushings (control arms, sway bar), worn ball joints, rear subframe mounting points, HVAC blower motor resistor failure.

Rust Prone Areas:

Wheel arches, rocker panels, rear strut towers, battery tray area.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's long-standing commitment to 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, emphasizing performance, handling, and driver engagement.

E34 Introduction:

The E34 generation of the 5 Series replaced the E28 and was produced from 1987 to 1996. It was a significant evolution in design, technology, and chassis dynamics.

518I Positioning:

The 518i was positioned as the most affordable variant, often targeted at markets where engine size taxation was a factor, while still offering the core E34 experience.

Production Period:

1990-1991 for the 518i model within the E34 lifecycle.

Manufacturing:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E34 Reputation:

The E34 generation was widely praised by automotive press for its handling, build quality, and refined driving experience, solidifying BMW's reputation in the executive sedan segment.

Reliability:

Generally considered reliable and durable with proper maintenance, though certain electrical components and specific E34 weaknesses are known.

Oem Status:

OEM equivalent repair information for BMW servicing.