🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

518i

Year:

1991

Chassis Code:

E34

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW 518i (E34) represented BMW's entry-level offering in the executive sedan segment for 1991, competing with models like the Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100, and Lexus ES 250.

Competitive Analysis:

Positioned for buyers valuing BMW's renowned driving dynamics and build quality at a more accessible price point than its 6-cylinder siblings. Focused on refinement and sporty handling.

Key Features:

Iconic E34 'Bangle-less' design, rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, and the characteristic BMW driver-focused cockpit. The 518i offered a more economical entry into the executive sedan class.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Full Service Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Rebuilding, Refurbishing, Restoration

Page Count:

Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive BMW E34 service manuals)

Manual Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine disassembly, assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing chain/belt, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (injection).

Engine Management:

Motronic engine management system (M1.3/M1.7), fuel injection, ignition system, sensor diagnostics, actuator testing, emissions control systems (EGR, catalytic converter).

Transmission Manual:

Manual gearbox (Getrag 260/5), clutch system, driveshafts, differential, gearbox oil specifications and replacement.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic gearbox (ZF 4HP22), torque converter, hydraulic control, valve body, transmission fluid specifications and replacement, shift control systems.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes (vented front, solid rear), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, caliper overhaul, master cylinder.

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, rear independent multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, anti-roll bars, wheel alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, pump, hoses, fluid specifications, steering column, wheel alignment.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, common electrical faults.

Comfort Systems:

HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), blower motor, climate control panel, refrigerant R12 specifications, body seals, power windows, central locking, power mirrors.

Bodywork And Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, bumper systems, interior trim, seat removal, soundproofing, rust prevention and repair techniques.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fuel filter replacement, coolant flush and replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts, fault code interpretation (where applicable via OBD-I), symptom-based troubleshooting, testing procedures for individual components.

Rebuild And Overhaul:

Complete engine rebuild procedures, gearbox overhaul, brake caliper and master cylinder rebuilding, power steering pump replacement.

Restoration Tips:

Advice on refurbishing classic components, bodywork restoration, interior rejuvenation, sourcing replacement parts.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans for clear text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

Searchable Text:

Yes, fully text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval.

Illustrations Type:

Includes detailed diagrams, exploded views, and photographic illustrations.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

M40B18 inline-4 cylinder

Horsepower:

Approx. 113 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

Approx. 165 Nm (122 lb-ft) @ 4300 rpm

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1796 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 81.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic M1.7 fuel injection with electronic ignition.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (91 RON/87 AKI recommended)

Engine Code Decoder:

M40: M=BMW Engine, 4=4-cylinder, 0=OHC (single overhead camshaft)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Getrag 260/5 5-speed manual transmission

Optional Transmission:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate diaphragm spring clutch

Gear Ratios Manual:

1st: 4.235, 2nd: 2.525, 3rd: 1.778, 4th: 1.256, 5th: 1.000, Reverse: 3.743

Gear Ratios Automatic:

1st: 2.47, 2nd: 1.48, 3rd: 1.00, 4th: 0.71

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW approved SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (e.g., Castrol SAF-XJ or equivalent)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

ZF TE-ML 11A/B or Dexron II/III (check specific vehicle VIN)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4734 mm (186.4 in)

Width:

Approx. 1751 mm (68.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2799 mm (110.2 in)

Curb Weight Manual:

Approx. 1450 kg (3197 lbs)

Curb Weight Automatic:

Approx. 1480 kg (3263 lbs)

Standard Tire Size:

195/65 R15

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120mm

Wheel Offset:

ET 20 (typical for 7x15 wheels)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

No official US NHTSA or Euro NCAP ratings available for this specific model year, but the E34 chassis was known for robust construction.

Active Safety:

Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), power-assisted disc brakes.

Passive Safety:

Reinforced safety cage, energy-absorbing crumple zones, driver's airbag (optional on some early models), three-point seat belts, side-impact protection beams.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Original systems typically included analog radio, cassette player, and basic equalizer. Upgrade options exist.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS (optional), power steering. Limited by era.

Connectivity Features:

None from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, using synthetic oil.

Air Filter Interval:

Every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-24,000 miles) or as needed based on conditions.

Spark Plug Interval:

Every 40,000-60,000 km (24,000-36,000 miles) depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-3 years or 50,000 km (30,000 miles).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.25 Liters (4.5 US Quarts) with filter change.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40 synthetic oil meeting BMW Longlife-98 or similar specifications.

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 brake fluid (e.g., Ate Typ 200).

Common Issues:

Coolant expansion tank cracking, radiator leaks, heater control valve failure, Vanos issues (on later M43 engines, not M40), fuel pump and injector issues, oil seal leaks (crankshaft, valve cover), ABS sensor failures, window regulator failures, door handle microswitch failures.

Parts Lookup Method:

Manual includes diagrams and part numbers to aid in sourcing components.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW, founded in 1916, has a long-standing reputation for building sporty luxury vehicles with a focus on performance and engineering excellence.

Model Evolution E34:

The E34 generation, introduced in 1987 (as a 1988 model in some markets), replaced the E28. It was known for its advanced aerodynamics, improved safety, and refined chassis. The 518i was an economical offering within the E34 lineup, later succeeded by the M43-engined 518i in subsequent years.

Production Years:

E34 production: 1987-1996. Specific 518i (E34) production: 1989-1994 (with engine updates).

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Recognitions:

The E34 generation was highly acclaimed for its driving dynamics and build quality, often cited in contemporary reviews as a benchmark in the executive sedan class.

Reliability Ratings:

While specific ratings for the 518i are scarce, BMWs of this era are generally considered robust if well-maintained. Common issues are often age-related wear and tear.