🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 520i Year: 1990 Generation Chassis Code: E34 Codes Engine Code Range: M20B20 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The BMW 520i (E34) was positioned as a premium executive sedan, known for its sporty driving dynamics, refined luxury, and advanced engineering for its time. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed against vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124), Audi 100/200, and Jaguar XJ. Key Features Design: Iconic 'Bangle-butt' design language (though less pronounced than later generations), improved aerodynamics, sophisticated interior, advanced chassis for its era. Driving Experience: Renowned for its balanced handling, responsive steering, and comfortable ride, embodying BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage: All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types for the 1990 BMW 520i (E34) Page Count Page Count: Estimated 1500-2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Workshop Repair Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical (M20B20), fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition, exhaust, cooling, lubrication Transmission: Manual and automatic transmission repair, overhaul, and adjustment Drivetrain: Clutch, driveshafts, differential, axle shafts Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS (if equipped), hydraulic circuits, bleeding procedures, component replacement Electrical: Wiring diagrams, lighting, instruments, comfort electronics, starting and charging system, fuse box layouts, diagnostic procedures Body: Body shell construction, exterior trim, doors, windows, locks, body panel alignment, rust prevention and repair HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection and adjustment Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, common fault identification and resolution Repair And Overhaul: Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, assembly, and installation Specifications And Tolerances: All critical torque values, clearances, and measurement specifications Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics and bodywork repair 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Likely text-searchable, allowing quick access to specific information Print Quality Print Quality: High resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 24-valve Engine Code: M20B20 (though the E34 520i typically used the later M50B20) Displacement: 1991 cc (2.0 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 80.0 mm x 66.0 mm Compression Ratio: 8.8:1 (typical for M50B20) Performance Horsepower: 150 PS (148 hp) @ 5600 rpm (M50B20) Torque: 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) @ 4300 rpm (M50B20) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch Motronic M3.1 Fuel Injection Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (Premium) Cooling System Cooling Type: Water-cooled, pressurized system Lubrication System Oil Type: BMW Longlife-98 recommended (e.g., Castrol GTX 5W-30 or 10W-40, check manual for exact specs) Oil Capacity: Approx. 5.5 Liters (with filter) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: Getrag 260/5 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Type: ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission Features Manual Gear Ratios: First: 4.08, Second: 2.15, Third: 1.31, Fourth: 1.00, Fifth: 0.81, Reverse: 3.71 Automatic Features: Electronic control (late models), sport/economy modes Fluid Specifications Manual Fluid: BMW ATF Dextron II (or equivalent) Automatic Fluid: BMW ATF Dextron II (or equivalent) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4730 mm (186.2 in) Width: 1750 mm (68.9 in) Height: 1410 mm (55.5 in) Wheelbase: 2790 mm (109.8 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs), depending on equipment Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 1900-2000 kg Cargo Trunk Volume: Approx. 460 liters (16.2 cu ft) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test History: E34 chassis generally performed well in contemporary crash tests, though specific ratings for the 1990 model vary by region and testing authority. Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often standard or a popular option. Traction Control: ASC (Automatic Stability Control) or ASC+T (Traction Control with engine management) became available later in the E34's lifecycle, may not be common on early 1990 models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver's airbag was becoming more common around this year, often optional. Seatbelts: Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants. Body Structure: Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Original BMW Bavaria C or Business CD/RDS radio, often with cassette player and 6-8 speaker system. Navigation: Optional early navigation systems (BMW Navigator) were available but very basic and rare. Driver Assistance ABS: As mentioned, ABS was a significant safety technology for its time. Connectivity Phone Integration: Optional factory-installed cellular telephones were available, but not integrated like modern Bluetooth. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific recommendation. Air...
The BMW 520i (E34) was positioned as a premium executive sedan, known for its sporty driving dynamics, refined luxury, and advanced engineering for its time.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124), Audi 100/200, and Jaguar XJ.
Key Features
Design:
Iconic 'Bangle-butt' design language (though less pronounced than later generations), improved aerodynamics, sophisticated interior, advanced chassis for its era.
Driving Experience:
Renowned for its balanced handling, responsive steering, and comfortable ride, embodying BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage:
All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types for the 1990 BMW 520i (E34)
Page Count
Page Count:
Estimated 1500-2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)
Electronic control (late models), sport/economy modes
Fluid Specifications
Manual Fluid:
BMW ATF Dextron II (or equivalent)
Automatic Fluid:
BMW ATF Dextron II (or equivalent)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4730 mm (186.2 in)
Width:
1750 mm (68.9 in)
Height:
1410 mm (55.5 in)
Wheelbase:
2790 mm (109.8 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs), depending on equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 1900-2000 kg
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 460 liters (16.2 cu ft)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test History:
E34 chassis generally performed well in contemporary crash tests, though specific ratings for the 1990 model vary by region and testing authority.
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often standard or a popular option.
Traction Control:
ASC (Automatic Stability Control) or ASC+T (Traction Control with engine management) became available later in the E34's lifecycle, may not be common on early 1990 models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver's airbag was becoming more common around this year, often optional.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Original BMW Bavaria C or Business CD/RDS radio, often with cassette player and 6-8 speaker system.
Navigation:
Optional early navigation systems (BMW Navigator) were available but very basic and rare.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
As mentioned, ABS was a significant safety technology for its time.
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
Optional factory-installed cellular telephones were available, but not integrated like modern Bluetooth.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific recommendation.
Air Filter:
Every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-25,000 miles)
Spark Plugs:
Every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles) using specific BMW plugs (e.g., NGK BKR6EK)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 50,000 km
Fluid Specifications
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid (high boiling point, hygroscopic)
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Cracking plastic expansion tanks, failing water pumps, radiator leaks.
Engine Management:
MAF sensor issues, idle control valve problems, potential VANOS issues on later M50 engines (though less common on early 2.0L).
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in control arm bushings and sway bar links leading to clunks and poor handling.