Segment:
Executive Mid-size Sedan
Key Competitors 1993:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124), Audi 100, Lexus GS300, Volvo 940
Vehicle Attributes:
Renowned for its driving dynamics, build quality, and refined luxury. The E34 generation offered a balanced blend of performance and comfort.
Target Audience:
BMW enthusiasts, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics working on the E34 525i.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Electrical Systems, Mechanical Systems, Bodywork
Estimated Page Count:
1000+
Type:
Workshop Service Manual
Format:
Digital (Likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine (M50B25), Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Ignition System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Clutch, Driveshafts, Differential
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering System, Power Steering
Brakes:
Brake System, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Brake Discs, Brake Pads, Brake Lines
Electrical:
Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams, Engine Control Unit (ECU)
Bodywork Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC System
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flush, Brake Fluid Flush, Belt Inspections/Replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine Component Replacement (e.g., head gasket, water pump), Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Caliper Rebuild, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Fault Finding Procedures, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Electrical Schematics Interpretation
Engine Rebuilding:
Engine Disassembly and Reassembly, Piston Ring Installation, Valve Adjustment, Torque Specifications for Internal Components
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical troubleshooting.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 Valves (4 valves per cylinder), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) - introduced mid-E34 lifecycle, may be present on 1993 models.
Horsepower:
189 hp @ 5900 rpm (approximate)
Torque:
181 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Injection:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 compatible)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 Liters (8.9 US Quarts)
Spark Plugs:
Typically NGK BKR6EK or Bosch W7LTC (check manual for specific recommendations)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/5)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22 EH)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF Dexron III or equivalent (check manual for specific part numbers)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF Dexron III or equivalent (check manual for specific part numbers)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic actuation
Length:
4720 mm (185.8 inches)
Width:
1751 mm (68.9 inches)
Height:
1410 mm (55.5 inches)
Wheelbase:
2760 mm (108.7 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1560-1610 kg (3439-3549 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2030 kg (4475 lbs)
Standard Wheel Size:
15 x 7.0 inches
Optional Wheel Size:
16 x 7.5 inches (e.g., "Style 32")
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120mm
Standard Tire Size:
205/65VR15
NHTSA Impact Tests:
NHTSA ratings for this era are less detailed than modern standards. Generally considered a safe vehicle for its time.
ABS:
Standard (Bosch ABS III)
Traction Control:
Optional (ASC - Automatic Stability Control)
Airbags:
Driver's airbag standard; Passenger airbag optional on some models/markets.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12 months (refer to manual for specific condition-based service recommendations).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check manual for specific BMW LL-01 approval or equivalent).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (or Pentosin CHF 11S/202)
Common Problems Engine:
Head gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, VANOS unit issues (if equipped), coolant expansion tank cracks, oil separator valve (CCV) clogging leading to oil leaks.
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, worn shock absorbers, subframe mounts degradation.
Common Problems Electrical:
Water pump failure (electric pump on M50), alternator bearing failure, sensor failures (e.g., MAF, O2), OBC (On-Board Computer) pixelation.
Common Problems Body:
Rust in wheel arches, rocker panels, and rear subframe mounting points. Headliner sagging.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, emphasizing performance, handling, and driver engagement.
E34 Introduction:
The E34 generation of the 5 Series was introduced in 1987 (Europe) and 1989 (North America), succeeding the E28.
E34 Updates 1993:
By 1993, the E34 had received updates including revised interior ergonomics, more advanced electronics, and the introduction of the M50 engine (replacing the M20 in some models) which featured dual-overhead cams and four valves per cylinder.
Production Years E34:
1987-1996
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing)
