Positioning:
Premium Executive Sedan, competing with Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6 of the era.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi C3/C4, Lexus LS400.
Features Of Vehicle:
Renowned for sophisticated engineering, refined driving dynamics, comfortable interior, and robust build quality.
Value For Owner:
Empowers owners with dealership-level knowledge for cost-effective maintenance and repair, enhancing DIY capabilities.
Manual Usefulness:
Essential resource for informed discussions with technicians, fostering better understanding and oversight of vehicle servicing.
Coverage Type:
Complete Service, Repair, and Troubleshooting
Estimated Page Count:
Comprehensive (Exact count not specified, but described as 'full' and covering 'all major topics')
Type:
Workshop Manual / Service Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed coverage of engine components, disassembly, assembly, and tuning.
Engine Electrical:
Wiring schematics, component testing, diagnostic procedures for engine electronics.
Emission Control:
Diagnosis and repair of emission control systems, including catalytic converters and sensors.
Fuel System:
In-depth information on fuel injection systems, pumps, injectors, and related components.
Clutch System:
Repair and replacement procedures for the clutch assembly.
Manual Transaxle:
Detailed repair and overhaul procedures for the manual transmission.
Automatic Transaxle:
Comprehensive repair and overhaul procedures for the automatic transmission.
Driveshaft Axle:
Service and repair of driveshafts, CV joints, and axles.
Suspension System:
Diagnosis, repair, and alignment procedures for front and rear suspension components.
Steering System:
Service and repair of the power steering system, steering rack, and linkages.
Restraint System:
Information on airbags, seatbelts, and related safety systems.
Brake System:
Detailed repair, bleeding, and adjustment procedures for the braking system, including ABS if applicable.
Body Interior Exterior:
Repair and maintenance of body panels, trim, doors, windows, and interior components.
Body Electrical:
Wiring diagrams and troubleshooting for lighting, power accessories, and body control modules.
HVAC:
Service and repair of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
Maintenance:
Regular maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic steps and flowcharts for identifying and resolving common and complex issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair.
Diagnostics:
Detailed procedures for diagnosing electrical and mechanical faults.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic owner-level maintenance to advanced dealer-level diagnostics and repairs.
Searchable:
Implied by PDF format, allowing for text searching.
Printability:
Yes, individual pages can be printed.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital PDF, but printable on any desired paper)
Engine Code:
M60B40 (for E34 540i, typically introduced later in E34 production, but this manual specifies 1990 for 540i, which might align with early V8 introductions or specific market variants; however, the M60B40 is the most common V8 for the E34 540i. The 1990 E34 was primarily V6 and inline-6 powered. This might indicate a specific variant or a slight inaccuracy in the product listing if the V8 was not standard for 1990 in all markets. Assuming the manual covers the V8 540i as stated.)
Engine Type:
4.0L V8 DOHC
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 282 hp @ 5800 rpm (for M60B40)
Torque Est:
Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (for M60B40)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 265/5, typically)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP-22, typically)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Sport mode or Steptronic (later models, but not standard on 1990).
NHTSA Ratings:
Not readily available for this specific model year and region for the 1990 model.
Active Safety:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard.
Passive Safety:
Crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell, airbags (driver's side standard, passenger optional or later standard).
Infotainment System Type:
Basic AM/FM/Cassette stereo, optional CD player. Analog climate controls.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control. ABS is a significant safety technology.
Connectivity Features:
Limited to external device integration for audio if the head unit supports it.
Oil Change Interval Est:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Refer to manual for specific recommendation.
Spark Plug Replacement Est:
Approx. 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type. Refer to manual for specific type and interval.
Engine Oil Type Est:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic recommended. Refer to manual for exact specification and viscosity.
Coolant Type Est:
BMW Blue or BMW G48 coolant (ethylene glycol-based) mixed with distilled water at 50/50 ratio. Refer to manual for specific type and capacity.
Brake Fluid Type Est:
DOT 4 (high-performance synthetic) recommended. Refer to manual for exact specification.
Transmission Fluid Manual Est:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil with appropriate viscosity (e.g., 75W-90). Refer to manual.
Transmission Fluid Automatic Est:
Dexron III (or equivalent). Refer to manual for exact specification and capacity.
Common Problems E34:
Head gasket leaks (especially on early M30s, less common on M60 V8), cooling system component failures (plastic expansion tanks, hoses), fuel injector seal leaks, ABS sensor failures, window regulator failures, VANOS system issues (on later M60/M62 V8s), subframe bushings, ignition coil failures.
Manual Utility For Issues:
The manual provides diagnostic procedures and repair steps to address these common issues.
Brand Philosophy:
BMW is known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', emphasizing performance, handling, and driver engagement.
E34 Generation Notes:
The E34 generation (1988-1996) was a significant step forward for the 5 Series, offering more refined styling, advanced technology, and the introduction of V8 engines.
540I Introduction Notes:
The 540i variant, featuring the M60 V8 engine, was introduced to offer a higher performance and more luxurious option within the E34 lineup.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
