🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Model Code:

E34

Specific Model:

518i

Engine Code Primary:

M40B18

Chassis Code:

E34

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Executive Sedan

Target Audience:

BMW enthusiasts, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics specializing in BMW vehicles.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Lexus LS400 (though generally a segment above).

Vehicle Usp:

BMW's signature driving dynamics, robust build quality, and refined engineering for its era.

Manual Value:

Provides factory-level repair and maintenance information, crucial for preserving the longevity and performance of an E34 518i.

📋 Manual Details

Applicable Years:

1990, 1991

Engine Coverage:

1.8L M40B18 I4 (Petrol)

Transmission Coverage:

Manual and Automatic Transmissions

Region Coverage:

Global (typical for E34 documentation)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valve train, timing components, cooling system, lubrication system.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), starter motor, alternator, sensors, wiring diagrams.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shifting mechanism, driveshafts.

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, hydraulic system, valve body, planetary gear sets, electronic control (if applicable).

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), rear suspension (multi-link, trailing arms), shock absorbers, springs, bushings.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, universal joints.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes (ventilated on some models), ABS system, brake lines, master cylinder, calipers, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, horn, wipers, power windows, central locking, instrument cluster.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control unit.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, underbody protection, structural components.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, injectors, evaporative emissions control.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, tune-ups.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Fault finding for engine, transmission, brakes, electrical issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (OBD-I era).

Repair Rebuild:

Complete engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.

Installation Replacement:

Component replacement procedures for all major systems, including timing belt, water pump, clutch, alternator, starter.

Alignment Specifications:

Wheel alignment data, camber, caster, toe specifications.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable if professionally scanned and OCR'd.

Quality:

Professional grade, equivalent to dealer documentation.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated petrol

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1796 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84 mm x 81 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Valve Train:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 8 valves

Horsepower:

113 bhp (85 kW) at 5600 rpm

Torque:

164 Nm (121 lb-ft) at 4300 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic M1.3 fuel injection system

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Petrol (RON 95 recommended)

Cooling System Type:

Water-cooled, pressurized system with thermostat and fan.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual (Getrag 260/5)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated, single dry plate clutch.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

BMW MTF LT-1 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF2)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or Dexron III (depending on specific ZF unit)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4717 mm (185.7 in)

Width:

1751 mm (68.9 in)

Height:

1412 mm (55.6 in)

Wheelbase:

2764 mm (108.8 in)

Curb Weight:

~1400-1450 kg (depending on options)

🛡️ Safety Features

Era Safety Standards:

Designed to meet late 1980s/early 1990s passive safety standards.

ABS:

Available as an option (Teves or Bosch ABS system).

Airbags:

Driver airbag optional on early models, standard on later 1991 models, passenger airbag not typically available.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia reel seatbelts front and rear.

Chassis Construction:

Reinforced safety cell with crumple zones front and rear.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory radio/cassette player (e.g., Bavaria C Business/Professional), optional CD changer. Speaker configuration varies by trim.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option.

Phone Integration:

No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity; dealer-installed options might have existed.

Headlight Type:

Halogen sealed beam units or projector-style headlights (depending on market and options). Manual covers adjustment and replacement.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 30,000 - 40,000 km (18,000 - 25,000 miles) for standard plugs. Manual will specify type and interval.

Timing Belt Replacement:

The M40 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, requiring periodic tensioner and guide checks rather than replacement at fixed intervals, but the manual will detail inspection procedures.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG/SH, ACEA A2/A3. Viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-40, depending on climate. Manual specifies exact grade.

Coolant Specification:

BMW coolant/antifreeze concentrate mixed with distilled water (typically 50/50). Manual specifies BMW part number or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4.

Common E34 Issues:

Cooling system (radiator, water pump, hoses), VANOS seal wear (on later M40 variants), fuel pump failure, window regulator issues, front control arm bushings, headlight leveling system.

M40B18 Specific Issues:

Can be prone to head gasket failure if overheated, oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan seals, potential timing chain tensioner wear. Manual will detail diagnostic checks.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', a reputation built on sporty sedans and innovative engineering.

E34 Generation:

The E34 generation (1987-1996) was a significant evolution for the 5 Series, offering improved aerodynamics, advanced suspension, and a wider range of engine options, including the 518i as an entry-level model.

E34 Production Years:

1987-1996 (Sedan: 1987-1995, Touring: 1991-1996)

E34 518I Production Period:

Primarily 1989-1994, with the 1990-1991 models covered by this manual.

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), also assembled in Austria, South Africa, and Thailand.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E34 Market Reception:

The E34 generation was critically acclaimed for its blend of comfort, performance, and build quality, reinforcing BMW's position as a leading luxury sedan manufacturer.