Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually (dependent on driving conditions).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 30,000 miles (depending on spark plug type).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific recommendations).
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.2 US quarts (5.9 Liters)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent.
Known Issues
Common Problem 1:
Head gasket leaks (especially on higher mileage M30 engines)
Common Problem 2:
Fuel pump failure
Common Problem 3:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan
Common Problem 4:
E34 specific issues: cooling system components (hoses, expansion tank), sagging headliner
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
Automotive performance and luxury engineering since 1916.
Model Evolution
E34 Generation Years:
1987-1996 (North America: 1988-1993)
535I Placement:
Upper-tier model in the E34 lineup, known for its strong inline-six engine.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Dingolfing, Germany
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The E34 generation (including 535i variants) was frequently recognized on Car and Driver's 10Best lists in the late 1980s and early 1990s for its performance and handling.