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E34 Sedan · Touring

BMW 5 Series · Sedan · Touring · 1988–1996

Over-engineered 90s 5-series with the M5 E34 at the top.

Production run

1988–1996

Engines covered

5

Avg. part price

—

19902026

Interactive systems map

Inspect the E34

Tap a hotspot to inspect that system

Systems map

Where it goes wrong

Each numbered hotspot counts the documented failure points in that area. Select one to see the specifics for this chassis and engine.

Failure points by system

Engine5

Cooling1

Fuel1

Documented issues per engine

4

M50

4

M52

4

M60

4

M30

0

S38

Known weak points

What breaks on the E34

Cooling system plasticsDiagnose →Single VANOS rattleDiagnose →Nikasil bore wear on early high-sulphur-fuel carsDiagnose →VANOS sealsDiagnose →Nikasil bore wear (early)Diagnose →Timing chain guidesDiagnose →Timing chain guideDiagnose →Head gasket at high mileageDiagnose →

Guides & playbooks

E34 playbooks

Maintenance scheduleGive me a mileage-based maintenance schedule for a BMW 5 Series E34, including the items the factory schedule skips.Buyer's inspectionI'm inspecting a used BMW 5 Series E34. What exactly should I check, test drive and look for underneath?Build planPlan a staged performance build for a BMW 5 Series E34 that stays reliable as a daily driver.Fault code lookupI have a fault code on my BMW 5 Series E34. Walk me through what it means and how to confirm the cause.

Fits your E34

Parts & tools

Full catalog & export

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