🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

518i

Chassis Code:

E34

Production Years Covered:

1990-1991

Engine Code Group:

M20

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size executive sedan

Brand Perception:

Premium, performance-oriented, engineering excellence

Competitors 1990-1991:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100 (C3/C4), Lexus LS 400, Volvo 960

E34 Era Focus:

Refined handling, robust build quality, driver-focused interior, evolutionary design over the E28

Manual Benefit:

Empowers owners and independent mechanics with factory-level repair knowledge, facilitating cost-effective maintenance and repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Type:

Comprehensive Service & Repair

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (Specific count not provided, typical for factory manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch, driveshaft, differential

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), pads, rotors, calipers, lines, parking brake

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, wheel alignment

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, linkages

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, fuses, relays, ECUs, diagnostic connectors (OBD I)

Bodywork:

Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, body repair specifications

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service and repair

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks, belt replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom analysis, fault code interpretation (OBD I)

Repair:

Component replacement, major overhauls, specific repair instructions for all systems

Installation:

Installation of genuine BMW parts and accessories

Depth:

Factory-level diagnostic procedures, detailed component removal/installation, torque specifications, electrical schematics, service bulletins (likely included)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable for quick information retrieval

Quality:

Professional digital reproduction, equivalent to original factory printing

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-6 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated

Engine Code:

M20B20 (for 518i, although E34 primarily used M50/M52 for later models, 518i designation often refers to 2.0L variants, need confirmation within manual for exact M20 spec)

Displacement:

1,990 cc (2.0 Liters)

Horsepower:

~129 hp @ 5,800 rpm (M20B20 specification)

Torque:

~174 Nm (128 lb-ft) @ 4,300 rpm (M20B20 specification)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Octane Recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual (Getrag 260/5)

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically Actuated Single Plate Dry Clutch

Differential Type:

Open Differential (typically)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

~4,720 mm (185.8 in)

Width:

~1,751 mm (68.9 in)

Height:

~1,412 mm (55.6 in)

Wheelbase:

~2,761 mm (108.7 in)

Curb Weight Manual:

~1,400 kg (3,086 lbs)

Curb Weight Auto:

~1,430 kg (3,153 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Era:

Tested under standards prevalent in the late 80s/early 90s. Detailed official ratings like NHTSA/Euro NCAP were less standardized than today.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard on most models from this period; passenger airbag often optional.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners (front)

Chassis Design:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted BMW Bavaria C or similar cassette/radio units. Premium sound system options available.

Cruise Control:

Standard on many models, optional on others.

OBD System:

OBD I (On-Board Diagnostics I) with a 15-pin diagnostic connector, primarily for basic engine management codes.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 10,000-15,000 km or annually, depending on driving conditions (consult manual for specific recommendation)

Spark Plug Replacement:

~30,000-40,000 km (depending on plug type, consult manual)

Coolant Replacement:

~2-3 years or 50,000 km

Engine Oil:

BMW High Performance SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40, API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3 (Consult manual for precise specification for the M20 engine)

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Dexron III ATF (or equivalent approved fluid, check manual for specific BMW P/N)

Common E34 Issues:

Water pump failure (plastic impeller), coolant leaks (hose, expansion tank), injector seals, idle control valve issues, valve cover gasket leaks, blower motor resistor failure, ABS sensor failures, door panel adhesive failure (common E34 issue).

M20 Engine Notes:

Known for robust design, but timing belt replacement is critical. Eccentric shaft sensor (if equipped) can be a failure point for starting issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Sheer Driving Pleasure, engineering for performance and driver engagement.

E34 Lineage:

Fourth generation of BMW's 5 Series executive sedan, succeeding the E28. Known for its refined styling and improved chassis dynamics.

E34 Production Run:

1988-1996

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing), South Africa, Thailand, and other CKD assembly plants.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E34 Reputation:

Consistently praised for its driving dynamics, build quality, and blend of comfort and sportiness in contemporary reviews. Often considered a benchmark in its class.