Vehicle Class:
Executive Sedan / Mid-size Luxury Car
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124), Audi 100/A6 (C3/C4), Lexus LS 400 (UCF10), Jaguar XJ6.
Platform Significance:
The E34 chassis represented a significant evolution in BMW's design and engineering, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and advanced technology for its era.
Target Audience:
Affluent buyers seeking a refined, powerful, and driver-focused luxury sedan with a strong sporting pedigree.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, rebuild procedures, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing components.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection (DME), ignition system, sensors (MAF, O2, Crank/Cam), actuators, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Transmission Manual:
Service, repair, and overhaul of the Getrag 260/5 manual transmission.
Transmission Automatic:
Service, repair, and overhaul of the ZF 4HP22 automatic transmission, including hydraulic control and electronic management.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, CV joints, differential, axle shafts, universal joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, anti-roll bars, alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake systems (ABS included), caliper rebuilds, rotor replacement, brake fluid bleeding, parking brake.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, steering angle sensor (if applicable).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, fuses, relays, lighting, horn, power windows, seats, mirrors.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, hood, trunk, glass replacement, interior trim removal, structural components.
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling, blower motor, climate control unit, evaporator, condenser.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common drivability, electrical, and mechanical issues.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step guides for replacing major components like water pump, alternator, starter, fuel pump, radiators, etc.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilding, transmission overhauls, head gasket replacement, timing chain/belt replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Interpreting diagnostic codes, using specialized tools, testing sensors and actuators.
Specification Settings:
Torque specifications, alignment angles, component clearances, electrical resistance values.
Depth:
Expert Level (Mechanic's Standard)
Detail Level:
Detailed diagrams, exploded views, torque specifications, and step-by-step instructions.
Transmission Type:
Getrag 260/5 5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-Speed Automatic
Automatic Shift Modes:
Standard, Sport (for more aggressive shifting)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF 2.0) - 1.7 Liters
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT 71141 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1) - 7.5 Liters (dry fill)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (typical recommendation).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) (NGK BKR6EK or equivalent).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) or API SJ/SL certified 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil. Capacity: 6.5 Liters (approx. 6.9 US Quarts).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid.
Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:
Common due to age and material degradation.
Cooling System Failures:
Plastic radiator end tanks, water pump impeller, and hoses can degrade and fail.
Head Gasket Issues:
While robust, can fail under severe overheating conditions.
ABS Sensor Failures:
Wheel speed sensors can fail, leading to ABS warning lights.
Window Regulator Failure:
Plastic components can break over time.
Oil Filter:
Mann-Filter HU 816 x, Mahle KL 144, Bosch 0 451 104 002 (Note: Always verify with VIN).
Air Filter:
Mann-Filter C 37 162, Mahle LX 38, Bosch 1 457 433 713.
Standard Tire Size:
205/65 R15, 225/55 R15 (optional/sport wheels)
Standard Wheel Size:
15 x 7.0 inches