E34 Technical Guides
BMW 5 Series 1987 - 1996
The BMW 5 Series automobile was built from mid-1987 to 1996 on the BMW E34 chassis, with the Touring model ending June 1996. It replaced the BMW E28 in 1988 and was replaced by the E39 in 1996.
The E34 succeeded the BMW E28 in 1989 with two models. The 525i used the BMW M20 engine while the 535i used the larger M30. The cars were a blend of BMW tradition and modern technology. BMW's traditional FR layout and straight-6 were used, providing the smooth engine and optimal weight distribution BMW customers had come to expect. The E34 also had a much stiffer body and was more streamlined than its predecessor, looking very much like the BMW E32 7-series and even sharing some components.
The E34 was among the most reliable luxury cars on the market, earning the best-in-class reliability rating from Intellichoice in 1991. It is still considered one of the most reliable BMWs made. It was also one of the safest cars on the road during its production, providing airbags, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, and a very rigid body structure to protect occupants in the event of an accident. The E34's 60-0 mph (97 to 0 km/h) stopping distance of 130 feet (40 m) was the best of any production sedan in 1990. It was also equipped with dynamic stability control (DSC) or skid control.
Each model - 525i, 535i, etc, were produced with different engines in different years (M30, M40, M50 etc.).
Contents
- Radiator Repair Guide - Need to replace the radiator? No problem. Take your time; it's not that hard.
- Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement - What should you do when the brake lining message comes on? Replace your brake pads and, sometimes, your rotors. Take an afternoon; BMW makes it easy.
- M60 V8 Engine - The M60 V8 Engine. A solid, powerful, low maintenance motor.
- Seats - BMW provides high quality seats. They not only comfortable, but they also have sophisticated electronics and mechanicals. Learn seat care procedures here.
- CD Changer - The car's all wired for a CD changer. How do I hook it up?
- Downloads - Helpful technical information for your BMW. Charts, schematics, documents, and videos available for download. File sizes and descriptions are provided.
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