Vehicle Segment:
Executive Sedan, mid-size luxury
Target Audience:
Owners, DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, BMW specialists
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/A6 (C3/C4), Lexus ES250/LS400
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables DIY servicing, comprehensive repair guidance, cost savings on maintenance and repairs
Vehicle Appeal:
Reputation for build quality, driving dynamics, refinement, and technological innovation for its era
Engine:
Complete engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, and emissions systems
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and diagnostics
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differentials, axle shafts, clutch system
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Brakes:
Brake system components, hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), rotor and pad replacement, bleeding
Electrical:
Complete vehicle electrical system, wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, accessories
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, bumpers, chassis structure
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service and repair
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures and fault finding for all major systems
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all components
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Adjustment:
Precise adjustments for engine timing, valves, brakes, etc.
Disassembly Assembly:
Comprehensive instructions for component removal and reinstallation
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics
Visuals:
Includes exploded views, detailed diagrams, and illustrations
Data Provided:
Specifications, procedures, diagrams, troubleshooting guides, torque values, fluid capacities, part numbers
Compatibility:
PC & Mac Compatible (Windows 95, 98, 2000, NT, XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10, macOS)
PDF Quality:
High-resolution, searchable PDF for clear viewing and printing
Delivery Method:
Instant Digital Download
Physical Format Note:
Not applicable for digital download, but designed for clear on-screen viewing and home printing
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1796 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84 mm x 81 mm
Horsepower Output:
Approx. 115 PS (113 hp) at 5500 rpm
Torque Output:
Approx. 165 Nm (122 lb-ft) at 4250 rpm
0 60 Mph Approx:
11.5 - 12.5 seconds
Top Speed Approx:
195 km/h (121 mph)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating typically 95 RON / 91 AKI)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific temperature ranges)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based)
Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 quarts (4.2 - 4.7 liters) with filter
Type:
5-speed manual transmission
Type:
4-speed automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-2 (or equivalent DEXRON-II)
Crash Test Data Note:
Specific official crash test ratings for the E34 generation may vary by region and testing agency. Known for robust chassis construction.
Antilock Brakes:
Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on many models
Airbags:
Driver airbag typically standard on later models, passenger airbag optional
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear
Chassis Construction:
Reinforced safety cell, impact-absorbing zones
Audio System:
Factory installed AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player. Multiple speaker configurations.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control)
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control
Parking Sensors:
Rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC) were an option on later models.
Onboard Computer:
Optional Check Control system providing basic vehicle status and fault monitoring.
Windows Mirrors:
Power windows and power-adjustable mirrors were standard or optional.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on spark plug type (standard vs. long-life).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (or DOT 3 if specified, check manual)
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid or Pentosin CHF 11S (check manual for exact type)
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (for standard differentials, LSD variants may require specific fluid)
Common Wear Items:
Cooling system components (hoses, water pump, thermostat, expansion tank), suspension bushings, blower motor resistor, VANOS seals (on later 6-cylinder engines, less common on M40).
Electrical Gremlins:
Can occur due to age of wiring harnesses and connectors, particularly in the engine bay and door seals.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, rear window seal area, jacking points.
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, engineering excellence, performance and luxury
E34 Introduction:
Introduced in 1987 (Europe) and 1988 (North America) as the successor to the E28 5 Series.
E34 Key Design Elements:
Sharper lines, aerodynamic improvements, more spacious interior, integrated bumpers, advanced multi-link rear suspension.
Production Period:
1987–1996
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing), South Africa, Austria, Thailand, Mexico
