🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 520i Model Code: E34 Production Year: 1990 Codes Engine Code Primary: M20B20 Chassis Code: E34 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Executive Mid-size Sedan Target Audience: Professionals, families seeking luxury, performance, and build quality. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ6, Lexus LS 400 (late model). Key Features Vehicle Design Philosophy: BMW's hallmark of 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', emphasizing driver engagement, balanced chassis, and refined engineering. Innovation: E34 represented a significant step in BMW's design language, offering improved aerodynamics and a more modern interior compared to its E28 predecessor. Key Features Manual Value Proposition: Provides authorized repair procedures, specifications, and diagnostic information essential for maintaining and repairing the 1990 BMW 520i, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: BMW 520i (E34) 1990 Model Year Engine Coverage: 2.0L Inline-6 Cylinder (M20B20) Transmission Coverage: Manual and Automatic Transmissions Page Count Estimated Pages: Hundreds (as indicated in description) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery (including fuel injection), ignition system, exhaust system. Transmission And Drivetrain: Manual gearbox, automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22 or similar), clutch, driveshafts, differential, axle shafts. Chassis And Suspension: Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (multi-link semi-trailing arm), steering system, brakes (front discs, rear discs), ABS (if equipped). Electrical System: Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows, central locking, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, fuse box. Body And Interior: Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, climate control system (HVAC), sound insulation. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant replacement, belt inspection and replacement. Diagnostics And...
Professionals, families seeking luxury, performance, and build quality.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ6, Lexus LS 400 (late model).
Key Features Vehicle
Design Philosophy:
BMW's hallmark of 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', emphasizing driver engagement, balanced chassis, and refined engineering.
Innovation:
E34 represented a significant step in BMW's design language, offering improved aerodynamics and a more modern interior compared to its E28 predecessor.
Key Features Manual
Value Proposition:
Provides authorized repair procedures, specifications, and diagnostic information essential for maintaining and repairing the 1990 BMW 520i, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows, central locking, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, fuse box.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, climate control system (HVAC), sound insulation.
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for common issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine management, electrical fault finding.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly of engine, transmission, suspension, braking, and electrical systems.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, engine timing procedures, valve clearance adjustments (if applicable to M20), fluid capacities and types.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and wiring diagrams.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
PDF
Searchability:
Likely searchable text-based PDF, allowing for quick information retrieval.
Print Quality
Quality:
Official factory documentation, typically high-resolution scans with clear diagrams and text.
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Downloadable PDF)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Engine Code:
M20B20
Displacement:
1990 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
80.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 or 9.4:1 (depending on market/variant)
Performance
Horsepower:
129 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
174 Nm (128 lb-ft) @ 4300 rpm (approx.)
Fuel System
Induction:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91 or higher recommended)
Fuel Pump Pressure:
3.0 - 3.5 bar (specified in manual)
Cooling System
Coolant Type:
BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 10.0 liters
Ignition System
Spark Plugs:
NGK BPR6ES or equivalent (specified in manual)
Ignition Timing:
Base timing typically 2° BTDC at idle (ECU controlled, adjust via diagnostic tool or specific procedure if applicable).
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 4HP22 or similar)
Features
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch
Manual Fluid Type:
BMW MTF LT-2 or Dexron III equivalent (check manual for exact specification).
Automatic Fluid Type:
Dexron III ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or BMW approved equivalent.
Automatic Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 1.5 liters (drain and fill), higher for full overhaul.
Differential Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 hypoid gear oil.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4730 mm (186.2 in)
Width:
1751 mm (68.9 in)
Height:
1410 mm (55.5 in)
Wheelbase:
2799 mm (110.2 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1450-1550 kg (depending on equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2000 kg (specified in manual)
Wheels Tires
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
Standard Tire Size:
205/65 VR 15 or 225/55 VR 15 (depending on market/options)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
While specific NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings for this exact 1990 model may be limited, the E34 platform was known for its robust safety cage construction and engineered crumple zones.
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (optional or standard depending on market).
Traction Control:
ASC (Automatic Stability Control) or ASC+T (Traction Control) available on some models, though less common on the 520i base engine.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver airbag typically optional for 1990; passenger airbag became available later in the E34 lifecycle.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for all occupants; front seatbelt pretensioners may be present.
Chassis Design:
Reinforced passenger cell, energy-absorbing steering column, door impact beams.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory cassette player with AM/FM radio, often with amplifier and equalizer options. CD changers were optional.
No integrated Bluetooth, USB, or Wi-Fi connectivity typical of modern vehicles. External aux input adapters or aftermarket head units are common upgrades.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise BMW recommendation for this year).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km.
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 km for standard plugs (check manual for exact spec).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type Viscosity:
BMW High Performance Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (e.g., Castrol GTX or BMW branded oil). Manual will specify approved oils.
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; water pump impellers can degrade.
Fuel System Issues:
Failing fuel pump, clogged fuel injectors, or deteriorating fuel lines can occur with age.
Electrical System Issues:
Wire harness degradation (especially around the engine bay), corroded grounds, failure of OBC (On-Board Computer) or instrument cluster components.
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and rear trailing arm bushings are common due to age and mileage.
Interior Wear:
Seat bolster wear, sagging headliner, and aging interior plastics are common signs of age.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Legacy:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, has a long history of producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles, renowned for engineering prowess and driving dynamics.
Model Evolution
E34 Introduction:
The E34 generation of the 5 Series debuted in 1987 (for the 1988 model year) and succeeded the E28. It was a significant evolution in design, technology, and performance.
E34 Lifecyle:
The E34 was produced from 1987 to 1996 (sedan) and 1991 to 1996 (touring), with a facelift in 1994. The 1990 model falls within the early production phase.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany, with potential assembly in other locations like South Africa and Mexico.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
General Recognition:
The E34 generation was widely praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and comfort, solidifying BMW's reputation in the executive sedan segment.
Ratings
Performance Ratings:
Consistently ranked among the best-handling sedans of its era.
Certifications
Quality Certification:
Represents BMW's commitment to German engineering and manufacturing standards.