Positioning:
The definitive digital resource for owners and independent mechanics of the E34 M5, providing factory-level repair and maintenance data.
Advantage:
Offers convenience, cost-effectiveness, and greater detail compared to older printed manuals, with instant online access.
Licensing:
Officially Licensed Information derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials.
Convenience:
Instant access from any internet-connected device.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (Digital Format)
Type:
Official Service & Repair Manual Software
Format:
Digital Software (Online Access)
Engine:
3.6L Inline-6 (S38B36), Fuel Injection, Ignition, Cooling, Lubrication, Exhaust
Drivetrain:
Manual Transmission (Getrag 5-speed), Clutch, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles
Suspension:
Front McPherson Struts, Rear Independent Multi-link, Springs, Dampers, Bushings, Ball Joints
Steering:
Power Steering System, Steering Rack, Tie Rods, Steering Column
Brakes:
Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Brake Lines, Master Cylinder, Calipers
Electrical:
Battery, Alternator, Starter, Lighting System, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams, ECU (Engine Control Unit)
Body And Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Chassis Components
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning System, Components, Refrigerant Handling
Fuel System:
Fuel Pump, Fuel Injectors, Fuel Filter, Fuel Tank, Fuel Lines
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Coolant Flush, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Codes, Symptom-based Diagnosis, Component Testing
Repair:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Swaps
Diagnostics:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics I) Procedures, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain rebuilds, detailed diagnostic procedures, and electrical system schematics.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement:
3.6 Liters (3535 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
94.4 mm x 85.0 mm
Horsepower:
310 hp @ 6,100 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
266 lb-ft @ 4,750 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M3.3 Fuel Injection
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 10.5 Liters (11.1 US Quarts)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter
Audio System:
Premium sound system (e.g., Nakamichi or Harman Kardon options available), cassette player.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with A/C.
Seats:
Sport seats with power adjustment and driver's memory function.
OBD Standard:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics I), requiring specialized tools for full diagnostics.
Oil Change Interval:
10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 10,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000 - 40,000 km (20,000 - 25,000 miles)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-50 or 10W-40 recommended (consult manual for exact specification)
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW ATF DII or Pentosin CHF 11S
Engine Moul:
Potential for oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front crank seal. Timing chain guides can wear over time.
Suspected Weaknesses:
Eccentric shaft (or Servotronic) unit failure in the steering system, heater control valve failures, increasingly brittle plastic components in the HVAC system.
Service Importance:
Regular maintenance is critical for the longevity and performance of the high-strung S38 engine.
Bmw Motorsport:
Continued BMW's legacy of high-performance, driver-focused vehicles born from motorsport expertise.
E34 M5 Introduction:
The E34 M5 was the third generation of the M5, introduced in 1988, with the S38B36 engine variant arriving for the 1990 model year in North America.
Production Years:
1988–1995 (E34 M5)
S38B36 Production Period:
1989-1992 (Europe), 1990-1993 (North America)
Manufacturing Location:
Garching, Germany
