🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Model Variant:

518 / 518i

Year:

1990

Chassis Code:

E34

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Mid-size Sedan

Target Audience:

Owners of BMW 5 Series (E34) models, independent repair shops, automotive technicians.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 Quattro, Jaguar XJ, Lexus LS 400.

Vehicle Strengths:

Renowned for its driving dynamics, build quality, advanced engineering for its time, comfortable ride, and understated luxury.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential technical information to maintain, diagnose, and repair the BMW 518/518i (E34) effectively, saving costs and ensuring longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Coverage Scope:

All Models, Engines, Trim, Transmission Types

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed overhaul, repair, and diagnostics for all engine variants including M20 variants, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing components, cooling system, lubrication system.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic variants), fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emissions control system.

Ignition System:

Ignition timing, spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor (if applicable), ignition control module, wiring diagrams.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox overhaul, internal components, shifting mechanisms, fluid specifications, repair procedures for 5-speed manual transmissions (e.g., Getrag).

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission overhaul, control systems, hydraulic circuits, torque converter, fluid specifications, repair procedures for available automatic transmissions (e.g., ZF 4HP22).

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings, repair and maintenance.

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms, anti-roll bar), rear suspension (multi-link or semi-trailing arm), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rods, power steering fluid specifications, troubleshooting.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), brake calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all circuits, diagnostic procedures.

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals, chassis structural components, corrosion protection, repair and replacement.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, blower motor, heater core, evaporator, refrigerant, compressor, climate control diagnostics.

Interior Trim:

Seats, dashboard, door panels, headliner, carpeting, removal and installation procedures.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid), drive belt inspection and replacement, battery maintenance.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults across all major vehicle systems, including symptoms, potential causes, and corrective actions.

Engine Repair:

Engine tune-up, cylinder head removal and reassembly, piston and ring replacement, crankshaft and bearing service, valve adjustment, timing belt/chain replacement, oil pump repair.

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement, manual gearbox overhaul, automatic transmission fluid and filter changes, internal transmission repairs.

Brake Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, brake fluid flush and replacement, ABS system bleeding (if applicable).

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Replacement of ball joints, tie rods, control arm bushings, shock absorbers, struts, power steering pump and rack service.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Testing of charging system components, starter motor, lighting circuits, diagnostic code retrieval (if applicable), wiring harness repair, fuse and relay testing.

Bodywork And Trim Replacement:

Removal and installation of body panels, interior trim components, glass replacement, weatherstripping.

HVAC Service:

Refrigerant charging, compressor replacement, evaporator and heater core replacement, diagnostic procedures for climate control issues.

Depth:

Comprehensive; covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, in-depth electrical diagnostics, and detailed body repair procedures. Includes torque specifications, tolerances, and diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Digital (PDF)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable, allowing quick access to specific information.

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 518:

Likely M20B20 or similar 2.0L inline-six (check specific chassis/market).

Engine Code 518I:

Likely M20B20 with fuel injection or potentially M20B25 variants depending on specific model designation within the 518i range.

Displacement 518:

Approximately 1990 cc (2.0 Liters)

Displacement 518I:

Approximately 1990 cc (2.0 Liters) or potentially 2494 cc (2.5 Liters) if specific 518i variants used larger engines.

Configuration:

Inline 6-cylinder

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder

Horsepower 518:

Approx. 129 hp (95 kW) at 5800 rpm (for M20B20)

Torque 518:

Approx. 174 Nm (128 lb-ft) at 4300 rpm (for M20B20)

Horsepower 518I:

Varies by specific engine; approx. 129 hp for 2.0L, up to approx. 170 hp for 2.5L variants if applicable to the '518i' designation in certain markets.

Torque 518I:

Varies by specific engine; approx. 174 Nm for 2.0L, up to approx. 222 Nm for 2.5L variants.

Injection Type:

Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI) for 518i, likely L-Jetronic or similar for some 518 variants.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Octane Rating:

Premium unleaded gasoline (e.g., 91 AKI or higher recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed manual transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP22)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90, check manual for exact spec)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III (or equivalent ATF specification, consult manual for exact spec)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4720 mm (185.8 inches)

Width:

Approx. 1751 mm (68.9 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 inches)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs), varies by specification

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Approx. 1900-2000 kg (4189-4409 lbs)

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 460 Liters (16.2 cubic feet)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Specific crash test data for 1990 models might be limited by modern standards. E34 generally offered good occupant protection for its era, with a reinforced safety cell.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) typically optional or standard on higher trims/later production.

Airbags:

Driver's airbag was an option, passenger airbag was rare or unavailable for this model year.

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners (driver and front passenger) standard.

Body Structure:

Designed with a reinforced chassis and crumple zones for occupant protection.

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

Factory fitted AM/FM stereo cassette player with basic tuning and volume controls. Optional CD players available on later models.

Speakers:

Typically 4-6 speakers, depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional cruise control system.

Onboard Computer:

Basic 'Check Control' system to monitor fluid levels, lights, and basic system status.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity. Original connectivity was limited to factory radio and power accessories.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-10,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Check owner's manual or manual for specific interval.

Engine Air Filter:

Replace every 30,000-40,000 km (20,000-25,000 miles) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Fuel Filter:

Replace every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles).

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles), depending on type.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-4 years or 40,000-60,000 km.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (consult manual for precise spec and viscosity based on climate).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 Liters (4.8 - 5.3 US Quarts) including filter, varies by engine.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (BMW Blue or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 or DOT 3 brake fluid (check manual for exact specification).

Engine M20 Quirks:

Potential oil leaks from front crankshaft seal, valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket. Head gasket failures can occur if overheated. Timing belt replacement is critical.

Cooling System Issues:

Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Water pump and thermostat failures are common maintenance items.

Electrical Gremlins:

Age-related issues with wiring harnesses, corrosion in connectors, failing relays (especially for fuel pump and HVAC), and intermittent issues with sensors.

Suspension Wear:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers are common due to mileage and age, affecting ride quality and handling.

Rust Prone Areas:

Wheel arches, rocker panels, rear valence, and trunk lid edges can be susceptible to rust if not properly maintained, especially in climates with road salt.

Fuel Pump Reliability:

The in-tank fuel pump can fail with age, leading to rough running or no-start conditions.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for engineering excellence, 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, and luxury sedans dating back decades.

E34 Introduction:

The E34 generation of the 5 Series replaced the E28 in 1988 (Europe) and 1989 (North America), offering significant advancements in chassis dynamics, aerodynamics, and technology.

E34 Features:

Introduced significant design changes by BMW chief designer Claus Luthe, featuring smoother lines, improved aerodynamics, and advanced suspension geometry for its time. The 518 and 518i represented the entry-level variants of the E34 range.

Production Years E34:

1987-1996 (globally)

Manufacturing Locations:

Mainly Dingolfing, Germany; assembly also occurred in other BMW facilities and licensed operations globally.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E34 Generation Accolades:

The E34 5 Series generation received numerous accolades from automotive publications for its blend of performance, comfort, and handling. While specific awards for the 518/518i variants are less documented, they benefited from the overall platform's positive reception.