Reputation:
Known for build quality, driving dynamics, and sophisticated engineering
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ6
Design Philosophy:
Balanced performance, comfort, and luxury, embodying BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with professional-grade diagnostic and repair information
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, timing belt/chain, lubrication, cooling system, fuel delivery, emissions control
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, clutch replacement, differential, driveshafts
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS diagnostics, disc and drum brake service, parking brake
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, steering linkage, wheel alignment specifications
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems, ignition system, onboard computer (ECU) diagnostics
Body:
Body panel repair, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, glass replacement
HVAC:
Air conditioning system service, heater core replacement, climate control diagnostics
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank, evaporative emissions control
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipes, oxygen sensors
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-I), component testing
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, fluid checks and top-ups
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair
Installation Procedures:
Installation of new or replacement parts
Overhaul Procedures:
Complete disassembly and reassembly of major components like engines and transmissions
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval
Printability:
Printable pages for workshop use
Image Resolution:
High-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations
Binding:
Not applicable (digital PDF format)
Paper Quality:
Not applicable (digital PDF format)
Engine Code:
M20B20 (pre-facelift), M50B20 (facelift)
Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder, 24-valve (M50)
Displacement:
1991 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
80.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Horsepower Hp:
129 hp @ 5800 rpm (M20B20); 150 hp @ 5900 rpm (M50B20)
Torque Lb Ft:
129 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (M20B20); 140 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm (M50B20)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (MFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating as per local regulations, typically 91 RON or higher)
Ignition System:
Distributorless ignition system (DIS) with coil-on-plug (M50), or distributor with single coil (M20)
Transmission Type:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission
Transmission Type:
ZF 4HP-22 4-speed automatic transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch (manual)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Red Line MTL 70W80 GL-4)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or Dexron III (check specific model VIN for exact spec)
NHTSA Ratings:
Not directly applicable to models from this era as standardized testing was less prevalent
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Optional on early models, standard on later E34s
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC) or Automatic Stability Control + Traction (ASC+T) - Optional on some models
Airbags:
Driver's airbag - Optional on early models, standard on later E34s
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front pre-tensioners
Chassis Design:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones
Audio System:
BMW Bavaria C Reverse RDS, optional CD players, upgraded Hi-Fi sound systems with amplifier
Navigation:
Optional on later models, early BMW navigation systems (e.g., BMW Navigation System Professional)
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models
Parking Sensors:
Rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control) - Optional on late models
Phone Integration:
Optional cellular phone integration kit for some early models
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used (refer to manual for specific recommendations)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on spark plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum/iridium)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Check per manual, often lifetime fluid but recommended at 60,000-100,000 miles. Automatic: 30,000-60,000 miles recommended.
Engine Oil:
BMW High Performance Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (API SJ/SL or ACEA A3/B3 specification) - Consult manual for exact OEM specs.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol-based, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 synthetic brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW ATF Dexron III or Pentosin CHF 11S (check VIN for specific application)
Engine Common Issues:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter housing; VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) issues on later M50 engines; cooling system component failure (water pump, thermostat, hoses); ignition coil failure.
Electrical Common Issues:
Corrosion on wiring harness connectors, ABS sensor failures, instrument cluster issues, central locking system problems.
Chassis Common Issues:
Sagging headliner, E34 specific 'clunk' from rear subframe mounting, front control arm bushings, rear trailing arm bushings, strut mount wear.
Fuel System Common Issues:
Clogged fuel injectors, failing fuel pump, faulty fuel pressure regulator.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E34 generation of the 5 Series was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production run, recognizing its exceptional balance of performance, comfort, and value.
Consumer Reports:
Generally rated well for reliability and performance, though some specific components could be prone to wear as mileage increased.
Automotive Press Awards:
Numerous accolades from automotive publications worldwide for its driving dynamics and engineering.
