Segment:
Executive Sedan, Luxury Mid-size Sedan.
Target Audience:
Discerning drivers seeking performance, comfort, and build quality characteristic of BMW.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200 (C3/C4), Jaguar XJ, Volvo 700 Series.
Design Philosophy:
Elegant styling, driver-focused cockpit, robust engineering, balanced handling.
Powertrain Emphasis:
Emphasis on smooth power delivery and efficient performance from the inline-six engine.
Handling Dynamics:
Renowned BMW handling characteristics, providing a connected driving experience.
Primary Coverage:
Repair, maintenance, diagnostics, and troubleshooting for BMW 518 and 518i (E34) models from 1990-1991.
Geographic Coverage:
Primarily North American and European specifications, with general applicability worldwide.
Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system (carburetor/injection), ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system.
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering rack, power steering system.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, front and rear brakes (disc/drum), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) if equipped, brake fluid specifications.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, power windows, central locking, wiring diagrams.
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, chassis components, body sealing, corrosion protection.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake inspections, drive belt checks.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for major component removal, installation, and overhaul (e.g., engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension repair).
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault diagnosis for electrical and mechanical issues.
Adjustments:
Valve adjustments, idle speed adjustments, brake adjustments, steering alignment procedures.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, including checks for engine codes, sensor readings, and system operation.
Repair Specificity:
Precise specifications for torque values, clearances, and assembly sequences for all major repair tasks.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for various systems, aiding in electrical diagnostics and repairs.
PDF Quality:
High-resolution, text-searchable PDF for easy navigation and printing.
Printable:
Yes, all pages are printable.
Binding:
Digital (PDF) - No physical binding.
Paper Type:
Not applicable (Digital PDF).
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, 4-stroke gasoline
Displacement Liters 518:
2.0 L
Displacement Liters 518I:
2.0 L
Bore Stroke Mm M20B20:
80.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio M20B20:
8.8:1 (typical)
Horsepower 518:
Approx. 115 hp @ 5800 rpm (carbureted)
Horsepower 518I:
Approx. 125 hp @ 5800 rpm (fuel injected)
Torque Nm 518:
Approx. 164 Nm @ 4500 rpm (carbureted)
Torque Nm 518I:
Approx. 174 Nm @ 4500 rpm (fuel injected)
Fuel Delivery 518:
Carburetor (e.g., Solex 32/36 DGVE or Zenith 35/40 INAT)
Fuel Delivery 518I:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91/95 recommended)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Manual (Getrag 260/5 or similar) or 5-speed Manual
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22 or similar)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (Automatic), Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) API GL-4 (Manual)
Crash Test Data:
Limited specific ratings for these early E34 models, but known for robust body structure and safety cage design typical of BMW.
ABS:
Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some models.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag became more common during the E34 production run, but may not be standard on all 1990-1991 518/518i variants.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts, often with pre-tensioners for front occupants.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, energy-absorbing crumple zones front and rear.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio and cassette player. Optional CD changer in trunk.
Climate Control:
Manual air conditioning with manual temperature and fan speed control. Optional automatic climate control (ECC) on some higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control system.
Parking Sensors:
Not typically available on these early models.
Connectivity Features:
Limited to factory-installed radio and telephone provisions (if optioned).
Oil Change Interval Km:
10,000 - 15,000 km (or as per Condition Based Service, if equipped)
Air Filter Replacement Km:
30,000 - 50,000 km
Spark Plug Replacement Km:
40,000 - 60,000 km (depending on plug type)
Coolant Flush Interval Years:
2-3 years
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check specific climate recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
4.0 - 4.5 L (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (BMW Blue or compatible)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; thermostat housing leaks; water pump failure.
Electrical System:
Check wiring harnesses for degradation, particularly in engine bay; instrument cluster failure (pixelation or total failure); fuel pump relay issues.
Fuel System:
Carburetor issues (gumming, adjustments); fuel injector seals on fuel-injected models; fuel pump reliability.
Suspension Components:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends; rear trailing arm bushings.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's long-standing reputation for building driver-oriented, performance-focused luxury vehicles.
E34 Introduction:
The E34 generation replaced the E28 and ran from 1987 to 1996, representing a significant step forward in design and technology.
518 518I Positioning:
The 518 and 518i served as the entry-level models within the 5 Series lineup, offering BMW quality and driving dynamics at a more accessible price point, particularly in European markets.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany.
Production Timeline E34:
1987-1996
E34 Awards:
The E34 generation was generally well-received for its driving dynamics, build quality, and styling, earning praise from automotive journalists and contributing to BMW's strong market position.
Reliability Reputation:
Known for solid engineering, though maintenance is crucial to maintain reliability, especially as vehicles age.
