Segment:
Executive/Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
Car enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional workshops.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/A6, Jaguar XJ, Lexus LS 400 (though LS 400 is later).
Vehicle Philosophy:
Sporty handling, luxury refinement, robust engineering, driver-focused cockpit.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, accurate technical guidance for maintaining and repairing the E34 5 Series.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (Motronic), ignition system, sensors, actuators, emissions control.
Transmission Manual:
Manual gearbox repair, clutch, driveline.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission service, overhaul, hydraulic control.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering rack, power steering.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, hydraulic components, calipers, rotors, ABS (where applicable), parking brake.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, accessories.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, chassis components.
Heating And Ac:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair, climate control components.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common problems and solutions, fault code interpretation.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Testing electrical circuits, checking fuel pressure, verifying sensor operation.
Special Tools:
Identification and use of BMW specific tools required for certain repairs.
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds).
Engine Name 518:
BMW M20B20
Engine Type 518:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement 518:
1990 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore Stroke 518:
80.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio 518:
8.8:1 or 9.4:1 (depending on market/variant)
Fuel System 518:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection
Horsepower 518:
126-129 hp (DIN) @ 5800 rpm
Torque 518:
180-182 Nm (133-134 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm
Engine Name 518I:
BMW M20B20 (Fuel Injected)
Fuel System 518I:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection
Top Speed Approx:
200-205 km/h (124-127 mph)
Acceleration 0 60 Mph Approx:
10.5 - 11.5 seconds
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (Octane rating as per owner's manual, typically 91 RON/87 AKI)
Standard Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Manual Getrag 260/5
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
BMW LT-2 or equivalent ATF (Dexron II/III)
Transmission Fluid Capacity Auto Approx:
8-10 Liters (for full refill)
Clutch Type:
Dry single-plate (for manual transmission)
Crash Test Data:
Limited standardized testing for this era compared to modern vehicles; focus on inherent structural integrity of BMW.
ABS:
Available as optional equipment on some models, standard on later production or higher trims.
Traction Control:
Not commonly available or standard on these specific base models.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag was an optional extra and not standard on all E34 models, especially earlier ones or base variants.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts front and rear.
Body Construction:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.
Radio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with optional CD changer.
Display:
Basic dashboard display for warnings, fuel, temperature, and odometer.
Cruise Control:
Optional, but commonly found on many E34 models.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control).
Phone Integration:
Not available in the modern sense; may have provisions for early car phone installations.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, using synthetic oil.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km (24,000-36,000 miles).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 40,000-60,000 km (24,000-36,000 miles) depending on type.
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 Liters (with filter)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 (depending on climate).
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue coolant or equivalent (50% ethylene glycol and 50% distilled water).
Cooling System:
Water pump failure, thermostat issues, cracked expansion tanks, brittle hoses are common on older M20 engines.
Ignition System:
Coil packs, spark plug wires (if applicable) can degrade over time.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel filter, and injector issues can arise due to age and wear.
Suspension Bushings:
Control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, and subframe bushings can wear out, leading to clunks and poor handling.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion and degradation of electrical connectors and grounds can cause intermittent faults.
Bmw Philosophy:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) is renowned for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' emphasizing performance, luxury, and engineering.
E34 Introduction:
The E34 generation replaced the E28 and was produced from 1987 to 1996. It represented a significant modernization of BMW's mid-size executive sedan.
518 518I Positioning:
The 518 and 518i were the entry-level models in the E34 lineup, offering BMW's signature build quality and driving dynamics at a more accessible price point, primarily for European markets.
Production Period:
1987-1996 (E34 generation), with 518/518i variants appearing in the earlier to mid-production years.
