🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 5 Series Chassis Code: E34 Specific Model Variant: 518i Model Years Covered: 1990, 1991 Codes Engine Code Typical: M40B18 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Executive Sedan Target Audience: Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops. Competitive Analysis Competitors Era: Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 Quattro, Lexus LS 400 (later models). Key Features Vehicle Driving Dynamics: Renowned for balanced handling, rear-wheel drive architecture, and driver-focused cockpit. Build Quality: Exceptional build quality and durability characteristic of BMW's engineering. Design Philosophy: Timeless styling, functional interior ergonomics. Manual Value Proposition Cost Savings: Significant potential savings on labor costs associated with dealership or independent mechanic repairs. Empowerment: Empowers owners with the knowledge to maintain and repair their vehicle effectively. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Rebuilding, Restoration Page Count Estimated Pages: 700+ Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Download (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, valve train, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, oil system, cooling system, engine diagnostics, timing belt replacement. Fuel System: Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, lines, emissions control. Ignition System: Ignition coil, spark plugs, distributor (if applicable), ignition timing, electronic ignition control. Transmission Manual: Clutch assembly, gearbox removal/installation, internal component repair, shifting mechanism. Transmission Automatic: Transmission removal/installation, hydraulic control, torque converter, internal components, fluid specifications, troubleshooting. Drivetrain: Driveshafts, CV joints, rear axle, differential, wheel bearings. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications. Steering: Steering rack, power steering pump, steering column, tie rods, troubleshooting. Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (discs), hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake pads, rotors, calipers, master cylinder, bleeding procedures. Electrical System: Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, diagnostic connectors. Body And Interior: Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, seats, headliner, body sealing. Climate Control: HVAC system, blower motor, heater core, evaporator, refrigerant system, operation, and repair. Body Electronics: Central locking, power windows, mirrors, sunroof, instrument cluster, warning lights. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection and replacement. Troubleshooting Guides: Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems across all major systems. Component Rebuild: Detailed instructions for rebuilding engine components, transmissions, steering racks, brake calipers, etc. Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive, high-resolution wiring schematics for all electrical systems. Torque Specifications: Precise torque values for all critical fasteners. Special Tools: Identification and usage of BMW-specific tools required for certain procedures. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics and electrical system tracing. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Text-searchable content for quick information retrieval. Print Quality Resolution: High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC Displacement: 1.8 Liters (1796 cc) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 81.0 mm Compression Ratio: 8.8:1 Engine Code: M40B18 Performance Horsepower Ps: 115 PS @ 5500 RPM Torque Nm: 168 Nm @ 4300 RPM Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended) Engine Management Engine Control Unit: Bosch Motronic (Specific Model Varies) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 5-Speed Manual Optional Transmission Type Optional: 4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22 or similar) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically operated single dry plate Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (BMW Part No. 83 22 0 309 031 or equivalent) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron III (BMW Part No. 83 22 9 407 842 or equivalent) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4710 mm (185.4 in) Width: Approx. 1751 mm (68.9 in) Height: Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in) Wheelbase: Approx. 2799 mm (110.2 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1400 kg (3086 lbs) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 1930 kg (4255 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Era: Not subject to modern standardized testing like IIHS/NHTSA, but known for robust B-pillar and chassis structure. Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (Optional or Standard depending on market) Traction Control: Automatic Stability Control (ASC) or Automatic Differential Lock (ADL) available on some variants, less common on 518i. Passive Features Airbags: Driver airbag standard from late 1990/early 1991 models, passenger airbag optional. Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear. Chassis Design: Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones, side-impact protection beams. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory cassette/radio unit. Upgrades common. Speaker systems usually 6-speaker setup. Navigation: Optional early-generation navigation systems available on higher trims, rarely fitted to 518i. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional cruise control system available. Connectivity Diagnostic Port: OBD-I diagnostic port (round...
Factory cassette/radio unit. Upgrades common. Speaker systems usually 6-speaker setup.
Navigation:
Optional early-generation navigation systems available on higher trims, rarely fitted to 518i.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system available.
Connectivity
Diagnostic Port:
OBD-I diagnostic port (round connector, usually under the hood).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Check manual for specific recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-25,000 miles) for standard plugs, longer for premium types.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for M40 engines. Typically every 60,000 km (37,000 miles) or 4 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.25 Liters (4.5 US Quarts) with filter change.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 10W-50 recommended for most climates (BMW recommends specific viscosities based on temperature).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant (BMW blue or equivalent), 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Known Issues
Cooling System Leaks:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Water pumps and thermostats are also common wear items.
Timing Belt Wear:
As mentioned, critical to replace. Also check tensioners and idler pulleys.
M40 Engine Oil Consumption:
Some M40 engines are known to consume oil, especially as they age. Regular checks are vital.
Window Regulator Failure:
Plastic components in the window regulator mechanisms can break.
ABS Sensor Failure:
ABS sensors on wheel hubs can fail, leading to ABS warning lights.
Door Lock Actuator Failure:
Central locking system actuators can fail.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's long-standing reputation for building sporty, driver-oriented luxury sedans with advanced engineering.
Model Evolution
E34 Introduction:
The E34 generation replaced the E28 5 Series and was produced from 1987 to 1996. It represented a significant step forward in aerodynamics, technology, and refinement.
E34 Range:
The E34 range included various engines from the 4-cylinder 518i to the V8-powered 540i, as well as the potent M5 (E34 S38).
Production
E34 Production Years:
1987-1996 (sedan), 1991-1996 (touring)
E34 Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), South Africa, Austria, Thailand, Mexico, Egypt.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
E34 General Reputation:
The E34 generation is widely regarded as one of BMW's finest 5 Series iterations, praised for its driving dynamics, build quality, and timeless design.
Car And Driver Best:
Car and Driver magazine consistently ranked E34 models among their '10Best' lists in the early 1990s.