BMW E34 VIN Decoder with Full Vehicle History, Options, and Specs Report
Find out the full background of any BMW E34 with the help of our dedicated BMW E34 VIN decoder.


How to Check BMW E34 VIN Decoder?
The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) for a BMW is a distinctive 17-character code exclusive to every BMW automobile. This identifier is not only unique to each vehicle but also encodes details about the vehicle’s model year, type, engine size, and additional characteristics, making it an essential tool for identification and information.
The VIN of a BMW E34 can be located in various places on the car such as:
- On the dashboard on the driver’s side, which can be seen from outside through the windshield.
- The jamb of the driver’s side door.
- In the engine area, either on the firewall or the radiator support.
- On the car’s registration and title papers.
By following these steps, you can easily access a wealth of information about any BMW vehicle, ensuring a deeper understanding of its heritage and features.
The BMW E34 is the third generation of the BMW 5 Series, produced from 1988 to 1996. Renowned for its refined styling, advanced technology, and superior driving dynamics, the E34 set new standards for quality and performance in the executive car segment. Available with a wide range of petrol and diesel engines, the E34 catered to a broad audience, offering everything from fuel-efficient models to high-performance variants. Below is a table summarizing the key engine variants offered in the BMW E34 lineup.
BMW E34 Engine Overview
Model | Engine Code | Configuration | Displacement | Power Output | Production Years |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
518i | M40B18 | 4-cyl, 8-valve | 1.8 L | 113 hp | 1989–1994 |
520i | M20B20 | 6-cyl, 12-valve | 2.0 L | 129 hp | 1988–1990 |
520i | M50B20 | 6-cyl, 24-valve | 2.0 L | 150 hp | 1990–1996 |
525i | M20B25 | 6-cyl, 12-valve | 2.5 L | 170 hp | 1988–1990 |
525i | M50B25 | 6-cyl, 24-valve | 2.5 L | 192 hp | 1990–1996 |
530i | M60B30 | V8, 32-valve | 3.0 L | 218 hp | 1992–1996 |
535i | M30B35 | 6-cyl, 12-valve | 3.4 L | 211 hp | 1988–1993 |
540i | M60B40 | V8, 32-valve | 4.0 L | 286 hp | 1992–1996 |
M5 | S38B36/S38B38 | 6-cyl, 24-valve | 3.6 L / 3.8 L | 315 hp / 340 hp | 1989–1995 |
524td | M21D24 | 6-cyl, 12-valve, Turbo | 2.4 L | 115 hp | 1988–1991 |
525td | M51D25 | 6-cyl, 12-valve, Turbo | 2.5 L | 115 hp | 1993–1996 |
525tds | M51D25 | 6-cyl, 12-valve, Turbo | 2.5 L | 143 hp | 1991–1996 |
Notes:
- The introduction of the M50 engine in 1990 represented a significant advancement with its use of a DOHC 24-valve head, offering improved performance and efficiency over the older M20 engine.
- The 530i and 540i models were the first 5 Series to be equipped with V8 engines, providing exceptional power and smoothness, and representing the top end of the E34’s non-M offerings.
- The E34 M5, available with 3.6 L and later 3.8 L versions of the S38 engine, was a high-performance model that offered supercar-beating performance in a sedan or touring body style.
- Diesel models like the 524td, 525td, and 525tds offered efficient alternatives with turbocharged engines, expanding the 5 Series’ appeal to those prioritizing fuel economy.
The BMW E34 5 Series is celebrated for its build quality, reliability, and balanced performance, making it a highly regarded model among BMW enthusiasts and a notable chapter in the 5 Series’ history.
What you can get from checking your VIN of your BMW E34

Damages
No one desires a vehicle with undisclosed damages. This could lead to paying more than necessary or encountering safety concerns on the road.
Mileage rollbacks
Mileage manipulation is a more widespread issue than you may realize. It not only results in overpaying for the vehicle but can also lead to significant repair expenses.
Recorded images
Understanding the vehicle's appearance in the past is crucial for gaining insights into its history and identifying any areas of damage or vulnerability.
Safety recalls
Manufacturers usually issue safety recalls to address dangerous defects. Ensure that your vehicle does not have any such defects before driving it.
Ownership changes
Understanding the number of previous owners a vehicle has had is important in determining its sales history. This information can provide insights into any potential underlying problems.
Theft records
We thoroughly examine millions of records from both international and local law enforcement agencies to ensure that a vehicle has not been reported as stolen in any country.

Car history report
Avoid costly problems by checking a car’s history. Just enter the VIN and get a full report.