Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, performance tuning, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves, camshafts, crankshaft, etc.)
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), starter, alternator, sensors, wiring diagrams
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, lines
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan, coolant specifications
Exhaust System:
Manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, gaskets
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, gearshift linkage, fluid specifications, repair procedures
Transmission Automatic:
ZF 4HP22 EH (often found in 535i E34), hydraulic control, torque converter, fluid specifications, repair, electronic control unit (ECU) diagnostics
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, universal joints, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings
Suspension Front:
MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar, bushings, alignment specifications
Suspension Rear:
Semi-trailing arms, independent suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering System:
Power steering pump, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, fluid specifications
Brake System:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics, brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake fluid specifications
Electrical System General:
Battery, charging system, starter motor, fuses, relays, lighting system, horn, wipers
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hinges, locks, glass, seals, structural components
HVAC System:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, blower motor, refrigerant, system diagnostics
Interior Trim:
Dashboard, door panels, seats, carpeting, headliner
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid level checks, brake inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components across all systems
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for complete engine disassembly, inspection, machining, and reassembly
Transmission Overhaul:
Complete instructions for manual and automatic transmission rebuilding
Brake System Repair:
Pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, ABS bleed procedures, hydraulic component replacement
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, testing procedures for sensors and actuators, ECU diagnosis
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Replacement of bushings, ball joints, tie rods, steering rack service
Bodywork And Trim Replacement:
Guidance on removing and installing body panels, interior trim pieces, and glass
Depth Level:
Professional Workshop Level (equivalent to dealer-issued manuals)
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics, including electronic system troubleshooting and wiring analysis
Rebuild Procedures:
Comprehensive rebuild procedures for engine, transmission, and major mechanical assemblies
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Detailed step-by-step diagrams and exploded views for most procedures
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-15,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 2 years
Coolant Change:
Typically every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic 5W-30 or 10W-40 (API SG/SH or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue or similar ethylene glycol-based coolant
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (check specific ZF specs)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Cooling System Leaks:
Common issues include plastic coolant expansion tanks cracking, hose deterioration, and water pump leaks.
M30 Engine Wear:
While robust, the M30 can develop oil leaks from the valve cover and oil pan gaskets. Timing chain guides should be inspected.
E34 Suspension Bushings:
Front control arm bushings and rear subframe bushings can wear out, leading to clunking noises and poor handling.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses, corroded connectors, and failing relays can cause various electrical issues.
Window Regulators:
Power window regulators are a common point of failure.