🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 520i Chassis Code: E34 Model Years Covered: 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991 Codes Engine Code: M20B20 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Executive/Luxury Mid-size Sedan. Bmw Philosophy: Represents BMW's commitment to driving dynamics, build quality, and refined engineering during the late 1980s. Competitive Analysis Key Rivals: Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Volvo 240/740, Jaguar XJ6. Key Features Driver Focus: Known for its driver-oriented cockpit, balanced chassis, and responsive handling. Quality And Longevity: E34 chassis is recognized for its robust construction and potential for long-term durability with proper maintenance. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Complete service and repair procedures for the BMW 520i (E34) 1988-1991 model years. Specific Systems: Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Body and Chassis, Climate Control, Interior Components. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 1000-1500 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era). Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Management: Detailed diagnostics, repair, and specifications for the M20B20 engine, including fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, emission control systems. Drivetrain: Repair and maintenance of manual and automatic transmissions, clutch operation, driveshafts, differentials, and axle components. Suspension Steering: Front and rear suspension geometry, component replacement (struts, control arms, bushings), steering system diagnostics and repair (rack and pinion). Braking System: Service procedures for hydraulic systems (master cylinder, lines, calipers), brake pad and rotor replacement, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake. Electrical System: Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, component testing, starter, alternator, lighting systems, instrument cluster, power windows, central locking. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug service, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, belt tensioning. Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, starting problems, and performance degradation. Major Repairs: Engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, suspension component overhauls, brake system overhauls, fuel system component replacement. Bodywork: Minor body panel adjustments, door and lock mechanisms, trim component replacement, glass replacement procedures. Technical Depth Diagnostic Capability: Advanced diagnostic information, including specifications for checking sensor readings, actuator operation, and ECU fault codes (where applicable for the era). Rebuild Instructions: Detailed step-by-step instructions and torque specifications for complete engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds. Special Tools: Identification and usage of specialized BMW tools required for specific repair procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Compatibility: Viewable on most operating systems and devices with a PDF reader. Searchability: Likely text-searchable PDF for quick access to specific topics. Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution diagrams and illustrations for clarity. Binding Type Digital Format: N/A (Digital) Paper Type Digital Format: N/A (Digital) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 6-Cylinder, SOHC Displacement: 1990 cc (2.0 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 80.0 mm x 66.0 mm Compression Ratio: 8.8:1 (typical for M20B20) Performance Horsepower: 129 hp @ 5800 rpm (approximate for European spec) Torque: 180 Nm (133 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm (approximate for European spec) Fuel System Induction: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch Motronic system. Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Octane recommended) Ignition System: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor with Electronic Control Unit. 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Type: 4-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF) Features Clutch: Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch (manual transmission). Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Castrol TAF-X 75W-90) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron III or Mercon compatible ATF 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4720 mm (185.8 in) Width: 1751 mm (68.9 in) Height: 1412 mm (55.6 in) Wheelbase: 2795 mm (110.0 in) Weights Curb Weight: 1450 kg - 1550 kg (approximate, depending on options) Gross Vehicle Weight: 1900 kg (approximate) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Era: Era-specific safety standards; modern ratings not directly applicable. Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option on later models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver-side airbag optional on some late models, passenger airbag not standard. Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front-seat belt pretensioners. Chassis Structure: Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones, and side-impact protection beams. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory-installed AM/FM stereo cassette player with premium sound options available. Climate Control: Manual or optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control). Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard or optional cruise control system. Connectivity Era Connectivity: Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on car-to-driver communication via instrument cluster warnings. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 15,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific conditions. Coolant Flush: Every 2-3 years or as recommended in the manual. Spark Plugs: Typically every 30,000 - 50,000 miles, depending on plug type (e.g., standard vs. platinum). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on temperature). Coolant:...
Represents BMW's commitment to driving dynamics, build quality, and refined engineering during the late 1980s.
Competitive Analysis
Key Rivals:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Volvo 240/740, Jaguar XJ6.
Key Features
Driver Focus:
Known for its driver-oriented cockpit, balanced chassis, and responsive handling.
Quality And Longevity:
E34 chassis is recognized for its robust construction and potential for long-term durability with proper maintenance.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Complete service and repair procedures for the BMW 520i (E34) 1988-1991 model years.
Specific Systems:
Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Body and Chassis, Climate Control, Interior Components.
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 1000-1500 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era).
Manual Type
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Digital (PDF)
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Management:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and specifications for the M20B20 engine, including fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, emission control systems.
Drivetrain:
Repair and maintenance of manual and automatic transmissions, clutch operation, driveshafts, differentials, and axle components.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension geometry, component replacement (struts, control arms, bushings), steering system diagnostics and repair (rack and pinion).
Braking System:
Service procedures for hydraulic systems (master cylinder, lines, calipers), brake pad and rotor replacement, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, component testing, starter, alternator, lighting systems, instrument cluster, power windows, central locking.
Procedures Included
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug service, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, belt tensioning.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, starting problems, and performance degradation.
Major Repairs:
Engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, suspension component overhauls, brake system overhauls, fuel system component replacement.
Bodywork:
Minor body panel adjustments, door and lock mechanisms, trim component replacement, glass replacement procedures.
Technical Depth
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic information, including specifications for checking sensor readings, actuator operation, and ECU fault codes (where applicable for the era).
Rebuild Instructions:
Detailed step-by-step instructions and torque specifications for complete engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized BMW tools required for specific repair procedures.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Compatibility:
Viewable on most operating systems and devices with a PDF reader.
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF for quick access to specific topics.
Print Quality
Image Resolution:
High-resolution diagrams and illustrations for clarity.
Binding Type
Digital Format:
N/A (Digital)
Paper Type
Digital Format:
N/A (Digital)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
1990 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
80.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (typical for M20B20)
Performance
Horsepower:
129 hp @ 5800 rpm (approximate for European spec)
Torque:
180 Nm (133 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm (approximate for European spec)