Vehicle Class:
Executive Sedan / Luxury Mid-Size Sedan
Competitors 1991:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 Quattro, Lexus LS 400, Cadillac DeVille
Bmw Philosophy:
Sporty handling, driver-focused interior, refined engineering
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system
Drivetrain:
Transmission (automatic and manual), driveline, differential, axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (including ABS)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power distribution, starter, alternator, battery
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, climate control (HVAC), interior trim
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault codes, common issues, step-by-step troubleshooting guides
Emission Control:
Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), Oxygen Sensors (Lambda Sensors), catalytic converter operation and diagnostics.
Instrumentation And Gauges:
Diagnosis and repair of speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks
Repair:
Engine component removal and installation, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension arm replacement
Diagnostics:
Component testing, electrical system diagnosis, emissions system troubleshooting
Disassembly And Assembly:
Detailed instructions for component breakdown and reassembly
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications and procedures for front and rear wheel alignment.
Lubrication Points:
Detailed information on chassis lubrication and greasing points.
Body Repair:
Procedures for dent repair, panel replacement, rust mitigation, and door/window mechanisms.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complex internal component repairs and diagnostics.
Diagnostic Codes:
Includes OBD I (On-Board Diagnostics) codes and their meanings relevant to the 1991 model year. Specific BMW diagnostic codes are covered.
Engine Type:
Inline-6 Cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
3.430 cc (3.4 L)
Horsepower:
208 hp @ 5700 rpm
Torque:
225 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Induction:
Bosch Motronic Fuel Injection (e.g., Motronic 1.3)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition with Knock Control
Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder
Valve Actuation:
Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC) per bank, driven by a duplex timing chain.
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/5)
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
BMW LT-2 or equivalent ATF (e.g., Dexron II)
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Crash Test Info:
Specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for 1991 models may vary, but E34 chassis known for solid construction.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver airbag (standard), passenger airbag optional or unavailable depending on market and build date.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Manual will specify exact BMW recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically around 30,000 miles for original plugs, or when needed based on performance.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles, check manual for BMW coolant specification.
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic or Synthetic Blend, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended (check manual for exact BMW LL-01 or specific OE approval).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent G11 type antifreeze/water mixture.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent Pentosin CHF 7.1 / ATF Dextron II in some cases, check manual)
Common M30 Issues:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, rear main seal; cooling system components (water pump, hoses, thermostat); potential head gasket issues with age; fuel distributor and injector problems; ABS sensor failures; wiring harness degradation.
Transmission Issues:
Automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22) can develop solenoid issues or torque converter problems; manual transmissions are generally robust but clutch wear is normal.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for performance, luxury, and build quality established decades prior.
E34 Generation:
E34 generation introduced in 1987 (Europe) and 1988 (North America), replacing the E28. The 535i model was a core variant of this generation.
Production Years:
E34: 1987-1996 (535i variant production within these years)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (primarily Dingolfing Plant)
