Segment:
Executive Sedan / Luxury Mid-Size Sedan
Positioning Statement:
The BMW 5 Series (E34) represented BMW's commitment to sporty driving dynamics, build quality, and refined luxury in the executive sedan segment.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 Quattro, Jaguar XJ (XJ40), Volvo 960
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive platform, and engaging steering.
Build Quality:
Exceptional fit and finish, durable materials, and robust engineering.
Design Philosophy:
Evolved from the E28, featuring a more aerodynamic and modern design with BMW's signature kidney grille.
Target Audience:
BMW Owners, Independent Repair Shops, Automotive Enthusiasts, DIY Mechanics
Benefit To Owner:
Enables accurate diagnosis, efficient repair, and proper maintenance, saving time and money.
Powertrain:
Engine (M40), Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System, Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Management, Lighting, Instrumentation, Body Electronics, Audio System, Power Accessories
Body And Trim:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC System
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Codes, Component Testing
Repair And Rebuild:
Component Disassembly/Reassembly, Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Repair, Brake System Repair
Bodywork:
Panel Replacement, Dent Repair, Paint Specifications (general guidance)
Electrical Repairs:
Wiring Diagrams, Component Replacement, Fault Finding
Depth:
Comprehensive Factory Level (suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers)
Diagnostic Tools Mentioned:
BMW Specific Diagnostic Equipment (e.g., DIS - though actual software not included)
PDF Quality:
High-resolution scans, searchable text (where OCR is applied)
Printability:
Printable in sections or entirety
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Diagnostic Charts:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts for troubleshooting common issues.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete electrical wiring diagrams for various systems.
Special Tools:
Lists and descriptions of required BMW special tools for specific procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1796 cc)
Horsepower:
113 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
164 Nm (121 lb-ft) @ 3250 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Fuel Injection (e.g., Motronic ML4.1 or similar)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributor-based ignition system with knock sensor
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP22)
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent GL-4/GL-5 gear oil (refer to manual for exact spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF (refer to manual for exact spec)
Crash Test Information:
Limited official crash test data for this specific model year from common agencies, but E34 platform generally considered robust for its era.
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs; ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard on most models.
Traction Control:
ASC (Automatic Stability Control) available as an option on some models.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag became more common around this period, but may have been optional or not fitted on base models like the 518i.
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning front seatbelts
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise BMW recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-24,000 miles) for standard plugs, or longer for platinum/iridium (refer to manual).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km (24,000-36,000 miles).
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) or LL-01 compatible synthetic oil, typically SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for exact viscosity and API rating).
Coolant Type:
BMW Coolant/Antifreeze (blue or green ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine M40:
Camshaft wear (especially rocker arms), potential head gasket issues if overheated, idle control valve problems, coolant leaks from plastic components.
Electrical System:
Corroded grounds, failing window regulators, intermittent dashboard warning lights, ABS sensor issues.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, sagging rear springs, worn shock absorbers.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack, radiator leaks, water pump failure.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's long-standing reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine'.
E34 Introduction:
The E34 generation of the 5 Series was introduced in 1987, replacing the E28. The 518i was typically an entry-level model in many markets.
E34 Facelift:
The E34 received a facelift in 1993, but this manual covers the pre-facelift 1991 model.
Production Years:
E34 generation: 1987-1996
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing plant primarily)
E34 Generation Accolades:
The E34 generation, in its various forms, was consistently praised by automotive publications for its driving dynamics, build quality, and refinement. Specific awards for the 518i model itself are less common, as it was positioned as a more budget-conscious entry point.
