Vehicle Segment:
Executive Sedan
Target Audience:
Performance-oriented luxury car buyers
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 Quattro, Lexus LS400
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for BMW's signature handling, rear-wheel drive bias, balanced chassis
Powertrain:
Smooth and torquey M30 inline-six engine, a hallmark of BMW's engineering
Build Quality:
Solid construction and premium materials, typical of BMW's E-segment offerings
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for owners and independent mechanics to maintain and repair this classic BMW
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, timing, valve train, lubrication, cooling
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection (Motronic), ECU diagnostics, sensors
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, tank, lines
Transmission Mechanical:
Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, clutch, driveshafts
Transmission Electrical:
Automatic transmission control systems, sensors, solenoids
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Antilock Braking System), caliper, rotor, pad replacement
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, control arms, bushings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, charging system, starter, battery
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass replacement
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting charts
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, differential service
Component Replacement:
Alternator, starter, water pump, fuel pump, power steering pump
Adjustment Procedures:
Valve lash adjustment (if applicable), idle speed adjustment
Troubleshooting Guides:
System-specific diagnostic flowcharts and fault code interpretation
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring harness testing, component testing, relay and fuse diagnostics
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications, clearances, measurements for all components
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive (A-Z repairs, mechanical and electrical)
Detail Level:
High (detailed pictures & diagrams)
Engine Type:
Inline-6, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
3.430 cc (3.4 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Horsepower:
208 hp @ 5,700 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
224 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M1.3 Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Valvetrain:
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Cooling System:
Water-cooled, thermostatically controlled
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based (depending on exact build date/market)
Audio System:
BMW Bavaria C Business or Professional (optional premium sound systems available)
Climate Control:
Manual or optional Automatic Climate Control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control)
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional depending on trim/market
Onboard Computer:
Optional OBC (On-Board Computer) displaying fuel consumption, range, etc.
Cellular Integration:
N/A (Pre-dates widespread cellular integration)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months (depending on driving conditions and oil used, refer to manual for specific recommendations)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically 30,000 miles for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium if applicable
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3, SAE 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-40, or 10W-30 (refer to manual for exact viscosity based on climate)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (approx. 6.9 US quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Glysantin G48 equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (or DOT 3 if specified by manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF Lifeguardfluid 4HP22 (or equivalent ATF Dexron III)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil
Common Wear Items:
Cooling system components (radiator, hoses, water pump), suspension bushings, fuel pump, ignition coil packs
Electrical Gremlins:
Can be prone to minor electrical issues due to age; check wiring harness and connectors
Heater Control Valve:
Known failure point affecting HVAC function
Headliner:
Fabric can sag over time due to adhesive failure
Bmw Philosophy:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG known for performance, engineering, and driver engagement ('The Ultimate Driving Machine')
E34 Introduction:
Introduced in 1987, the E34 replaced the E28 and was produced until 1996.
E34 Positioning:
Represented a significant leap forward in aerodynamics, technology, and luxury compared to its predecessor.
Production Period Covered:
1988-1991 model years for the 535i
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing)
