🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

518 / 518i

Model Code:

E34

Product Name:

BMW 518 518i 1990 1991 Workshop Repair Service Manual

Generation Name:

E34

Generation Years:

1987-1996 (International), 1989-1995 (North America)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Sedan / Mid-size Luxury Sedan

Target Audience:

Owners seeking to maintain and repair their BMW E34 518/518i, automotive technicians, enthusiasts.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 Quattro, Volvo 740/940, Jaguar XJ.

Vehicle Philosophy:

BMW's characteristic blend of performance, luxury, and driver engagement, with the 518/518i representing a more accessible entry point into the executive segment.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential, manufacturer-level technical information to ensure proper servicing and longevity of the vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

1.8L M40B18 (518/518i)

Transmission Coverage:

Manual and Automatic Transmissions

Chassis Coverage:

All E34 variants (specifically focusing on 518/518i models)

Trim Level Coverage:

All available trim levels for 518/518i

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 800-1200+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (injection and pump), ignition system, exhaust system, engine electricals, engine management (DME), emissions control.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (clutch, gearbox, driveshafts) and automatic transmission (torque converter, hydraulic control, gearbox) service, repair, and troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

Differential, axles, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings, springs, shocks), alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system (pump, rack, hoses), steering column, tie rods.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system (master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders), ABS (if equipped), parking brake, brake pad/disc replacement, bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all circuits.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, dashboard, trim components, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning).

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter, EFI control module.

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, coolant specifications.

Maintenance:

Oil change intervals, fluid level checks, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common starting issues, engine performance problems, electrical faults, brake system issues, and HVAC system malfunctions. Symptom-based diagnostics.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for engine components (head gasket, timing belt), transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuild, electrical component repair, body panel replacement.

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (if applicable for the era), wiring diagrams for tracing electrical faults, component testing procedures.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for fasteners, engine data, component dimensions, alignment settings, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, diagnostics, repair, and component overhaul for all major systems.

Detail Level:

Detailed diagrams, exploded views, and step-by-step instructions suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Typically searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

Print Quality:

Designed for clear reproduction when printed, with legible text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M40B18

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1796 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84 mm x 81 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1 or 9.0:1 (depending on specific market/variant)

Horsepower:

Approx. 113-115 PS (83-85 kW) @ 5600 rpm

Torque:

Approx. 164-168 Nm (121-124 lb-ft) @ 4250 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic fuel injection (e.g., Motronic ML 4.1 or M 1.7)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91 or higher recommended)

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition with distributor

Emission Control:

Catalytic converter (standard for most markets), Lambda sensor (O2 sensor).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 240/260 variations)

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP22)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch

Transmission Fluid:

Manual: ATF DEXRON II or equivalent. Automatic: ATF DEXRON II/III.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2761 mm (108.7 in)

Length:

4734 mm (186.4 in)

Width:

1751 mm (68.9 in)

Height:

1412 mm (55.6 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1400-1500 kg (3086-3307 lbs) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by specific model and options

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 460 liters (16.2 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited specific official ratings available for this era and model variant; rely on general E34 chassis safety design principles. Not subject to modern NHTSA/Euro NCAP standards.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Driver airbag standard in most markets from 1990 onwards, passenger airbag optional or introduced later.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seatbelts, potentially with pre-tensioners for front seats.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM cassette stereo systems, often with multiple speaker options (e.g., 4, 6, or 10 speakers). Optional CD player may have been available.

Display:

Basic digital display for clock and radio information. No integrated navigation or multimedia screens.

Cruise Control:

Optional electronically controlled cruise control.

Phone Integration:

No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity. Aftermarket solutions exist.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-10,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific interval for your driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000-50,000 km (20,000-30,000 miles) or as needed based on environment.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Every 60,000-80,000 km (40,000-50,000 miles).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-40,000 miles) depending on plug type.

Timing Belt Replacement:

M40 engine uses a timing belt. Replacement interval is critical, typically every 60,000-80,000 km (40,000-50,000 miles) or 5 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage.

Engine Oil:

API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3, viscosity 15W-40, 10W-40, or 5W-40. Consult manual for exact recommendations.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (BMW blue or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter change

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 liters (7.9 US quarts)

Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 1.3 liters (1.4 US quarts)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 3.5-4.5 liters (3.7-4.8 US quarts) for a fluid change

M40 Engine:

Timing belt wear and potential failure, valve stem seal wear (leading to oil consumption), idle control valve issues, fuel injector clogging, VANOS unit (if applicable on later M40 variants).

Electrical:

Corrosion in fuse box, aging wiring harness insulation, intermittent issues with central locking, window regulators, and instrument cluster.

Suspension Steering:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, strut mount bearings, and steering rack leaks.

Rust:

Vulnerable areas include wheel arches, rocker panels, and door bottoms due to age and environmental exposure.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's reputation for engineering excellence, 'ultimate driving machine' ethos, and focus on rear-wheel drive dynamics.

E34 Introduction:

The E34 generation of the 5 Series was introduced in 1987 (Europe) and 1989 (North America), replacing the E28.

518 Market Placement:

The 518/518i represented BMW's entry-level offering in the E34 lineup, providing a more fuel-efficient and affordable option within the executive sedan segment.

Production Years Covered By Manual:

1990, 1991

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E34 Generation Awards:

The E34 generation as a whole received numerous accolades for its engineering, handling, and luxury during its production run. Specific awards for the 518i variant are less common due to its base-model positioning.

Reliability Perception:

Generally perceived as a well-built and durable vehicle, but requires diligent maintenance, especially regarding the M40 engine's timing belt and potential oil consumption issues. Classic BMW maintenance costs can be higher than mainstream brands.