Positioning:
Executive sedan segment, known for luxury, performance, and engineering
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8, Lexus LS 400
Design:
Iconic Chris Bangle design, aerodynamic and muscular presence
Powertrain:
Introduction of the smooth M60 V8 engine, advanced suspension and chassis
Interior Quality:
Premium materials, driver-focused cockpit, exceptional build quality
Engine Mechanical:
Full overhaul, timing chain, VANOS, oil pump, lubrication system
Engine Management:
DME, fuel injection, ignition, sensors, actuators, emissions control
Transmission:
Manual (Getrag 260/5, 260/6) and Automatic (ZF 4HP22 EH) overhaul and diagnostics
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, CV joints, axle shafts
Suspension:
Front struts, rear multi-link, bushings, springs, dampers, alignment
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, linkages, steering column
Brakes:
ABS, front/rear disc brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component locations, battery, charging system, starter, lighting
HVAC:
Climate control system, A/C refrigerant, blower motor, heater core
Bodywork:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals
Interior:
Seats, dashboard, trim panels, headliner
Safety Systems:
SRS airbag system diagnostics and replacement
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks
Diagnostics:
Fault code reading, system analysis, troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Component removal, installation, adjustment, and replacement
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for complete engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step guides for common and uncommon issues
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic fluid changes to complete engine rebuilds and advanced diagnostics
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2997 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Double VANOS (variable camshaft timing)
Horsepower:
215 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic DME)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled, pressurized system
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 260/5)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22 EH)
Automatic Modes:
Sport and Economy (S/E) modes
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF 2)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF Lifeguardfluid 4 HP 22 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF 4 HP)
NHTSA Rating:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA in modern formats for this era, but generally considered safe for its time.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard, passenger airbag optional on early models, standard on later 1991 models.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear
Head Unit:
Factory BMW Business or Professional CD/Cassette players, optional CD changer.
Speakers:
Factory speaker system, often with separate tweeters.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Traction Control:
Optional ASC (Automatic Stability Control) on later models.
Onboard Computer:
Optional On-Board Computer (OBC) for trip data, fuel consumption, and system checks.
Oil Change Interval:
Approximately 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or 12 months, depending on driving conditions. Check CBS (Condition Based Service) system if equipped.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for standard plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (50,000 km).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: inspect for wear, often lifetime fill but drain/fill recommended at 100k miles. Automatic: Inspect, drain/fill recommended around 60,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (API SJ/SL or BMW LL-01 approved)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 liters (7.9 US quarts)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Common Problems Engine:
Head gasket leaks (though less common on M60 than earlier engines), VANOS system issues, oil pan gasket leaks, cooling system component degradation (hoses, water pump).
Common Problems Electrical:
Corroded ground points, ABS sensor failures, instrument cluster issues, blower motor resistor failure.
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, front strut mount failure, rear trailing arm bushings.
Common Problems HVAC:
Leaking evaporator core, heater control valve failure, weak blower motor.
Bmw Philosophy:
Ultimate Driving Machine, focus on performance, handling, and driver engagement.
E34 Introduction:
Introduced in 1988 (Europe) / 1989 (North America) as successor to the E28 5-Series.
E34 Features:
Significant technological advancements including aerodynamically optimized styling, improved chassis dynamics, and introduction of V8 engines.
530I Introduction:
The 530i, powered by the new M60 V8, debuted for the 1993 model year in North America, but the E34 chassis was produced with V8s earlier in Europe. This manual covers the early application of the 3.0L V8.
Production Period E34:
1987–1996
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (Dingolfing Plant)
