🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Year:

1990

Chassis Code:

E34

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive/Luxury Sedan

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8/100, Lexus LS 400, Cadillac DeVille.

Vehicle Attributes:

Renowned for driving dynamics, build quality, comfortable interior, and advanced engineering for its era.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Comprehensive repair, maintenance, rebuilding, refurbishing, and restoration of the 1990 BMW 5 Series.

Engine Variants:

Covers BMW 525i, 530i, and 535i models equipped with M20 and M30 inline-six engines. May include specific sub-models or packages if present in 1990.

Estimated Pages:

1000+

Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF implied, print quality typical of service manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed overhaul procedures, component specifications, timing adjustments, cylinder head repair, crankshaft and piston assembly, oil pump, oil cooler.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection systems (DME), ignition systems, sensors (MAF, O2, Crankshaft Position), ECU diagnostics, emission controls, troubleshooting fuel delivery and ignition faults.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch assembly, gearbox overhaul, shift linkage, torque specifications, internal component replacement, fluid specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Transmission identification, hydraulic system, torque converter, valve body overhaul, electronic control unit (EGS) diagnostics, fluid and filter replacement procedures, shifting issues troubleshooting.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension component replacement (control arms, ball joints, tie rods, shocks, struts, springs), wheel alignment specifications, bushing replacement, troubleshooting noise and handling issues.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnosis, hydraulic system components (master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders), brake pad and rotor replacement, ABS system troubleshooting, brake bleeding procedures, parking brake adjustments.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, fuse and relay box locations and functions, battery and charging system, starter motor, alternator, lighting circuits (headlights, taillights, interior), horn, wipers, power windows, power mirrors, central locking system.

Climate Control:

HVAC system operation, refrigerant charging procedures, A/C compressor, blower motor, heater core, evaporator, climate control module diagnostics, troubleshooting cooling and heating performance.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood and trunk latches, interior trim, sound deadening, chassis identification, corrosion prevention.

Instrument Cluster:

Diagnosis and repair of speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, and warning lights.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush and fill, transmission fluid and filter change, brake fluid flush, power steering fluid check.

Troubleshooting:

System-specific diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault identification for engine, transmission, brakes, electrical, and HVAC.

Component Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for overhauling engines, transmissions, steering racks, brake calipers, alternators, starter motors, and other major components.

Diagnostic Procedures:

On-board diagnostics (OBD-I related for the era), sensor testing, actuator testing, ECU readouts (where applicable), electrical testing using multimeters and oscilloscopes.

Fuel System Repair:

Fuel pump replacement, fuel injector cleaning and replacement, fuel pressure regulator testing, fuel filter replacement.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter replacement, muffler and exhaust pipe repair/replacement, exhaust manifold gasket replacement.

Steering System:

Power steering pump replacement, steering rack overhaul/replacement, tie rod end replacement, steering fluid flush.

Body Hardware:

Door handle adjustment and replacement, mirror replacement, sunroof mechanism service, trunk and hood strut replacement.

Lighting Repair:

Headlight bulb replacement, taillight assembly repair, fog light service, interior dome light replacement.

Interior Trim:

Removal and installation of dashboard components, door panels, center console, and seating for access to components.

Alternator Replacement:

Removal and installation of the alternator, belt tensioning, and basic electrical testing.

Starter Motor:

Removal and installation of the starter motor and solenoid.

Depth:

Expert-level, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers complete vehicle teardown and reassembly.

Diagnostic Tools:

Instructions on using basic diagnostic tools like multimeters, test lights, and pressure gauges. May include information for BMW-specific diagnostic tools of the era.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely PDF; ensures searchability and digital accessibility.

Image Resolution:

High resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

M20 2.5L Inline-6 (525i), M30 3.0L Inline-6 (530i), M30 3.5L Inline-6 (535i), M50 2.5L/2.0L Inline-6 (later 525i/520i models, may overlap with 1990 depending on market introduction).

525I Engine Code:

M20B25

535I Engine Code:

M30B35

535I Horsepower:

Approx. 208 hp @ 5700 rpm

535I Torque:

Approx. 224 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Injection Type:

Bosch Motronic fuel injection (specific version varies by engine)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission

Transmission Options:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission

Automatic Control:

Electronic control of shift points and transmission behavior (EGS on later models).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

111.7 inches (2837 mm)

Length:

189.4 inches (4811 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3500-3800 lbs (depending on engine and options)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Era:

Data from the era is not directly comparable to modern NHTSA/Euro NCAP. However, the E34 was designed with significant safety improvements over its predecessor.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag standard (introduced during the E34's lifecycle), optional passenger airbag.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones, energy-absorbing steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory cassette player with optional CD changer, AM/FM radio. Analog tuning, basic speaker systems.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control with digital readouts on some models.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Onboard Computer:

Check Control system for fluid levels, brake pad wear, and light bulb failures. Some models may have trip computers.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.

Spark Plugs:

Around 60,000 miles for standard plugs; iridium plugs offer longer life (consult manual for specific type).

Engine Oil:

SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 API SG or SH (check owner's manual/manual for specific viscosity and spec for given temperature range).

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Glysantin G48 or equivalent ethylene glycol based).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

SAE 75W-90 GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (check manual for specific type).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III or equivalent ATF (check manual for exact specification).

Cooling System:

Cracking plastic coolant expansion tanks, failing water pumps (often plastic impeller), thermostat housing leaks.

Engine Mounts:

Degradation of rubber engine mounts leading to vibration and noise.

Headliner:

Saggy headliner due to adhesive failure.

O2 Sensors:

Failure of oxygen sensors impacting fuel economy and emissions.

Window Regulators:

Failure of power window regulators and motors.

Fuel Pump:

Occasional fuel pump failures, particularly with age.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for building driver-focused, well-engineered vehicles with a focus on performance and luxury.

E34 Introduction:

The E34 generation replaced the E28 and introduced a more modern, aerodynamically refined design. It was produced from 1987 to 1996.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary manufacturing in Dingolfing, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver:

Car and Driver Ten Best lists for several years during the E34's production run, particularly for the 535i and later M5.

Overall Reputation:

Highly regarded for its balance of performance, luxury, and durability. Considered a benchmark in its class for driving feel.