🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

E-Code:

E28 / E34

Applicable Model Years:

1981-1991

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and professional mechanics working on BMW E28/E34 models.

Value Proposition:

Provides access to professional-level repair information, saving significant costs compared to dealership service.

Ease Of Use:

PDF format allows for easy searching, zooming, and printing of specific sections.

Completeness:

Covers all major repair and maintenance aspects of the specified BMW 5 Series generations.

Professional Standard:

Based on the same type of documentation used by BMW dealerships and certified technicians.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

All BMW 5 Series E28 and E34 variants

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typically 1000+ pages for full workshop manuals)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans of original documentation, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed procedures for all engine variants, including disassembly, inspection, reassembly, timing, and diagnostics.

Engine Management & Fuel System:

EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) systems, fuel pumps, injectors, sensors, ECU diagnostics, emission controls.

Transmission (Manual & Automatic):

Repair, overhaul, and adjustment procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions, including clutch service, torque converter, and transmission control.

Drivetrain & Axles:

Driveshafts, CV joints, differential, rear axle repair, and wheel bearing service.

Suspension System:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.

Braking System:

Hydraulic system, disc and drum brake service, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, parking brake.

Steering System:

Power steering system components, steering rack/box, tie rods, and steering column service.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams for all circuits, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, ignition system, instrument cluster, and power accessories.

Body & Chassis:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, seals, structural components, and corrosion prevention.

HVAC System:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system service, refrigerant handling, component replacement.

Interior & Upholstery:

Trim removal, seat repair, dashboard disassembly, and interior component service.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections.

Troubleshooting & Diagnostics:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (where applicable).

Component Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for rebuilding major components like engines, transmissions, and differentials.

Electrical Component Repair:

Diagnosis and repair of starters, alternators, ECUs, sensors, wiring harnesses, and power accessories.

Brake System Service:

Pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, brake bleeding, ABS component testing.

Suspension & Steering Repair:

Replacement of ball joints, control arms, bushings, tie rods, and power steering pump.

Bodywork & Panel Replacement:

Instructions for replacing fenders, hoods, doors, bumpers, and associated trim.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.

Diagnostic Tools:

References to specialized tools and diagnostic procedures used by professionals.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.

Clearances & Tolerances:

Detailed specifications for engine clearances, bearing tolerances, and other critical measurements.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

E28 Engine Options:

M30 Series (e.g., 3.2L/3.4L), M20 Series (e.g., 2.5L, 2.7L 'eta')

E34 Engine Options:

M30 Series (e.g., 3.5L), M20 Series (e.g., 2.5L), M50 Series (e.g., 2.0L, 2.5L, 3.0L, 3.5L - VANOS on later models)

Typical Horsepower Range:

125 hp (M20 eta) to 315 hp (M50B35/M88 E28 M5)

Typical Torque Range:

180 Nm (M20 eta) to 360 Nm (M50B35)

Fuel Delivery System:

Bosch L-Jetronic, Motronic EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) across various models and years.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

E28 Standard Transmission:

4-speed or 5-speed Manual

E34 Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual (Getrag 260/5, 265/5)

E28 Optional Transmission:

3-speed or 4-speed Automatic

E34 Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22, 4HP24), 5-speed Automatic (Steptronic on later models)

Transmission Fluid Specification:

Dexron III or equivalent for automatic transmissions, BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent for manual transmissions (refer to specific vehicle for exact spec).

📐 Dimensions

E28 Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,795 mm (110.0 in)

E34 Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,760 mm (108.7 in) (Standard), 2,893 mm (113.9 in) (Touring/LWB)

E28 Length:

Approx. 4,750 mm (187.0 in)

E34 Length:

Approx. 4,720 mm (185.8 in) (Saloon), 4,755 mm (187.2 in) (Touring)

E28 Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,400 - 1,600 kg (3,086 - 3,527 lb)

E34 Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,500 - 1,750 kg (3,307 - 3,858 lb)

E28 Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 480 liters (17.0 cu ft)

E34 Trunk Capacity (Saloon):

Approx. 520 liters (18.4 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards:

Designed to meet evolving safety standards of the 1980s and early 1990s.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System available on many models.

Traction Control:

ASC (Automatic Stability Control) became available on later E34 models.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag introduced on later E34 models.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts standard.

Crumple Zones:

Designed with front and rear crumple zones for impact absorption.

💡 Technology Features

E28 Infotainment:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional premium sound systems.

E34 Infotainment:

Upgraded radio/cassette systems, optional CD changers, early forms of digital climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control).

Cruise Control:

Available on most models.

On-Board Computer (Obc):

Available on many E34 models, providing basic trip data and diagnostics.

Connectivity:

Limited by era; primarily focused on audio systems and basic vehicle functions.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by engine and plug type, generally 30,000-60,000 km (18,000-36,000 miles).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km (24,000-36,000 miles).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-40, or 10W-30 synthetic or semi-synthetic, depending on climate and engine variant (refer to manual for exact BMW LL specification).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent.

E28/E34 Common Wear Items:

Vibrations from driveshaft flex discs, worn control arm bushings, heater control valve leaks, radiator support cracking (E34), fuel distributor issues (M30), valve stem seals (worn engines).

E34 Specific Issues:

Vanosi nterference (M50 VANOS units), ABS sensor failures, door seal degradation, idle control valve issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Brand:

Renowned for engineering excellence, sporty driving dynamics, and luxury.

E28 (1981-1988):

Successor to the E12, introduced BMW's second generation of the 5 Series. Known for its robust engineering and refined handling. The legendary M535i and E28 M5 variants debuted during this era.

E34 (1987-1996, Manual Covers Up To 1991):

Marked a significant design and technological leap. Featured sleeker styling, improved aerodynamics, and a wider range of engines, including the groundbreaking M50 straight-six. Introduced the 5 Series Touring (wagon).

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany.

Production Volume:

Significant global sales for both generations, cementing the 5 Series as a benchmark executive sports sedan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Acclaim:

Both E28 and E34 generations received widespread critical acclaim for their driving dynamics, build quality, and performance, often being praised as class leaders.

E28 M5 Recognition:

Widely regarded as one of the finest sports sedans of its time, setting benchmarks for performance.

E34 Design Award:

The E34's design was often lauded for its timeless elegance and aerodynamic efficiency.