🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5-Series (E28)

Model Variants:

518, 518i, 520i, 520e, 524td, 525i, 528i, 528e, 535i

Chassis Code:

E28

Production Years:

1981-1988

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Sedan / Mid-size Luxury Sedan

Target Audience:

Affluent individuals seeking performance, luxury, and reliability.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W123/W124, Audi 100/200, Volvo 700 Series, Jaguar XJ

Design Philosophy:

A blend of performance, sophisticated engineering, and understated luxury. Known for its balanced chassis and driver-focused cockpit.

Driver Experience:

Renowned for its precise steering, compliant ride, and powerful engines, offering a commanding driving experience.

📋 Manual Details

Workshop Manual Coverage:

Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Clutch, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drive Shaft, Differential, Steering, Suspension (Front & Rear), Brakes (Front & Rear), Bodywork, Electrical System, HVAC, Lubrication, Cooling System, Emission Control

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual Coverage:

Wiring Diagrams, Component Location, Diagnostic Procedures for Electrical Systems, Fuse & Relay Identification, Troubleshooting Faults

Workshop Manual Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual Page Count:

Estimated 300+ pages (typical for ETMs)

Workshop Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual Type:

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual (ETM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF/Downloadable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

M10 (2.0L), M20 (2.0L, 2.3L, 2.5L, 2.7L), M21 Diesel (2.4L), Cylinder Head, Crankshaft, Pistons, Valves, Lubrication, Cooling, Fuel Injection (Bosch L-Jetronic, Motronic), Turbocharging (524td)

Drivetrain Systems:

Manual Transmissions (Getrag 260), Automatic Transmissions (ZF 4HP22), Driveshafts, Universal Joints, Rear Axle, Differential (various ratios), Limited Slip Differential (optional)

Front Suspension:

MacPherson Struts, Lower Control Arms, Anti-roll Bar

Rear Suspension:

Semi-trailing Arms, Coil Springs, Shock Absorbers, Anti-roll Bar

Steering System:

Recirculating Ball Steering Box, Power Steering (Servotronic optional on some models)

Front Brakes:

Ventilated Disc Brakes

Rear Brakes:

Solid Disc Brakes

Antilock Brakes:

ABS (optional on later models)

Component Coverage:

Starter Motor, Alternator, Battery, Lighting (Headlights, Taillights, Interior), Wipers, Washers, Horn, Power Windows, Central Locking, OBC (On-Board Computer), Radio/Audio System

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil and Filter Changes, Spark Plug Replacement, Air Filter Replacement, Fuel Filter Replacement, Coolant Flush and Fill, Brake Fluid Flush, Belt Inspection and Replacement, Lubrication Points

Repair Procedures:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Clutch Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Overhaul, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair, HVAC System Servicing

Troubleshooting Procedures:

Engine Performance Issues, Starting Problems, Electrical Faults, Transmission Shifting Issues, Braking System Anomalies, Suspension Noises

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, component testing specifications, troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues.

Rebuild Instructions:

Comprehensive step-by-step instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds, including torque specifications and clearances.

Electrical Schematics:

Full-color, detailed wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including power distribution, lighting, engine management, and accessories.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Searchable PDF, allowing for quick access to information via keywords.

Digital Quality:

High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and illustrations.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Digital Paper:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

518/518I:

1.8L M10 Inline-4

520I:

2.0L M20 Inline-6

520E:

2.0L M20 Inline-6 (Economy tune)

524Td:

2.4L M21 Turbocharged Inline-6 Diesel

525I:

2.5L M20 Inline-6

528I:

2.8L M30 Inline-6

535I:

3.5L M30 Inline-6

535I Horsepower:

Approx. 182 hp @ 5400 rpm

535I Torque:

Approx. 214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

524Td Horsepower:

Approx. 85 hp @ 4400 rpm

524Td Torque:

Approx. 134 lb-ft @ 2200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Electronic Fuel Injection (CIS-L, Motronic)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating varies by model and region)

🔧 Transmission

5 Speed Manual:

Getrag 260 (standard on most models)

Automatic Transmission:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic (optional on most models)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2795 mm (110.0 in)

Length:

Approx. 4755 mm (187.2 in)

Width:

Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in)

Curb Weight:

Varies by model, approx. 1350 - 1600 kg (2976 - 3527 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, typically around 1900-2000 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

Historical Safety Standards:

Designed to meet the safety standards of its era. Lacked modern advanced safety features.

Antilock Brakes:

Optional ABS on later models

Seat Belts:

3-point front seat belts (rear typically lap belts)

Crumple Zones:

Designed with front and rear crumple zones for energy absorption.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette players, often with premium sound options.

On Board Computer:

Optional OBC (On-Board Computer) displaying fuel consumption, range, speed, etc.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system.

Phone Integration:

No integrated smartphone connectivity; period-correct car phone options may have existed.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Varies by engine, but typically 15,000-30,000 miles for older plug types.

Timing Belt Interval:

N/A (All E28 engines use timing chains)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 (API SF/SG) recommended, refer to manual for specific grades.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (BMW Blue or compatible)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Rust Prone Areas:

Wheel arches, rocker panels, battery tray, trunk floor, door bottoms.

Engine Cooling System:

Radiator leaks, hose degradation, water pump failure, thermostat issues.

Electrical Gremlins:

Corroded wiring connectors, faulty headlight relays, OBC issues, door lock actuators.

Suspension Wear:

Worn ball joints, control arm bushings, rear trailing arm bushings, sway bar links.

Fuel System Aging:

Clogged fuel injectors, failing fuel pumps, degraded fuel lines.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Engineering:

BMW's reputation for building driver-focused, well-engineered vehicles.

E12 Predecessor:

The E28 succeeded the first generation 5-Series (E12) and refined its design and engineering.

E34 Successor:

The E28 was replaced by the E34 5-Series in 1988.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (Dingolfing Plant)

Total Production E28:

Approximately 722,000 units globally

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Acclaim:

Widely praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and performance, earning it the moniker 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' in the executive sedan segment.

Reliability Perception:

Generally regarded as reliable with proper maintenance, though complex systems can require specialized attention.

Historic Vehicle Status:

Many E28 models are now considered classic or modern classic vehicles, eligible for specialized insurance and historic registration in many regions.