Target Audience:
BMW E34 owners, independent mechanics, DIY enthusiasts
Uniqueness:
Make, model, and year specific, providing detailed technical information beyond generic manuals.
Ease Of Use:
Easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions and diagrams
Delivery:
Instant download for immediate access
Content Scope:
Comprehensive coverage for repair, maintenance, and diagnostics
General Information:
True
Inspection And Adjustment:
True
Engine Removal Installation:
True
Cylinder Head Valve:
True
Crankshaft Primary Shaft:
True
Front Wheel Suspension:
True
Rear Wheel Suspension:
True
Battery Charging System:
True
Electrical Diagrams:
True
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Exact count not specified, but coverage implies a comprehensive document)
Manual Type:
Service Repair Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Compatibility:
PC/MAC Compatible
Viewing Features:
Zoom In/Out
Engine Mechanical:
Complete rebuilds, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, crankcase
Engine Management:
Fuel system, ignition system, battery/charging system
Drivetrain:
Clutch, gearshift linkage, sub-transmission, transmission, crankshaft, primary shaft
Suspension Steering:
Front wheel and suspension, rear wheel and suspension
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system
Electrical:
Battery/charging system, ignition system, electric starter, switches, comprehensive electrical diagrams
Body And Chassis:
Implied through repair procedures and technical features
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, inspections, adjustments
Repair:
All workshop repair procedures, engine rebuilding, component overhauls
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting section
Wiring:
Re-wiring procedures, electrical diagrams
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical repairs
Diagnostic Approach:
Step-by-step diagrams and detailed instructions facilitate troubleshooting
Component Focus:
Detailed coverage of major mechanical and electrical components
Engine Variants Covered:
Likely covers all E34 variants including M20 (e.g., 520i, 525i), M30 (e.g., 530i, 535i), M50 (e.g., 525i, 530i), and potentially M60 (e.g., 540i) and S38 (M5) engines.
Typical Power Outputs:
Ranges from approximately 129 hp (M20B20) to 315 hp (S38B36/B38 M5).
Typical Torque Outputs:
Ranges from approximately 174 Nm (M20B20) to 370 Nm (S38B38 M5).
Fuel Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection systems (various iterations depending on engine and year)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating dependent on engine specifications)
Cylinder Block Material:
Typically cast iron for inline-six engines, aluminum alloy for V8 engines.
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum alloy
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed manual (Getrag 260/265 depending on engine)
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22/4HP24 depending on engine)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Manual: Typically MTF LT-1/LT-2. Automatic: ATF Dexron III (or equivalent).
Length:
Approx. 4710-4780 mm (185.4-188.2 in) depending on model
Width:
Approx. 1751 mm (68.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1410-1420 mm (55.5-55.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2797 mm (110.1 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1500-1750 kg (3307-3858 lb) depending on engine and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 2000-2200 kg
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 120 mm
Wheel Size:
Typically 15-inch or 16-inch alloy wheels
Crash Test Performance:
While specific official ratings for this era might be scarce by modern standards, the E34 was known for its robust chassis and structural integrity for its time.
Antilock Braking System:
Standard on most models
Traction Control:
Available as an option on some later models (ASC/ASC+T)
Airbags:
Driver's airbag became standard in later years; passenger airbag was optional.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear.
Chassis Design:
Reinforced safety cage and crumple zones.
Radio Options:
Factory premium sound systems, optional cassette decks, early CD players.
On Board Computer:
Optional On-Board Computer (OBC) providing fuel economy, range, and basic diagnostics.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Parking Sensors:
Not typically available on E34 models.
Bluetooth Integration:
Not available in original form; aftermarket solutions exist.
Auxiliary Input:
Not typically available in original form; aftermarket solutions exist for audio input.
Oil Change Interval:
Varies by model year and oil type; typically 7,500-10,000 miles or 1 year (synthetic oil recommended for modern use).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Dependent on engine and plug type; e.g., 30,000 miles for conventional, 60,000 miles for platinum.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable for most E34 engines which use timing chains.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic recommended for optimal performance and protection.
Coolant:
BMW Blue or equivalent G48 ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Water pump, thermostat, radiator hoses, front control arm bushings, sway bar links, various vacuum hoses, headliner fabric, OBC display pixels.
Electrical Gremlins:
Can occur due to age of wiring harness and modules; fuel pump relay issues, OBC malfunctions.
Engine Specific Issues:
M50 VANOS unit (if equipped), oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks.
Bmw Philosophy:
The E34 embodied BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy with a focus on performance, handling, and driver engagement.
Predecessor:
BMW E28 5 Series
Successor:
BMW E39 5 Series
Key Design Elements:
Iconic 'Hofmeister kink' rear window, progressive aerodynamic design for its era, double kidney grille.
Production Years:
1988-1996 (model years 1989-1996)
Manufacturing Locations:
Mainly Dingolfing, Germany; also Mexico, South Africa, and Austria.
Automotive Press Acclaim:
The E34 was widely praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and refined luxury.
Import Car Of The Year:
While specific 'Import Car of the Year' awards vary by publication and year, the E34 consistently ranked high in its segment.
Value Retention:
Known for its strong build quality contributing to good long-term value retention, especially well-maintained examples.
