Era:
Mid-1980s Performance Luxury
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for balanced handling and driver engagement, characteristic of BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos.
Engine Performance:
Smooth and powerful inline-six engines, offering strong torque delivery.
Build Quality:
Solid construction and high-quality materials, contributing to longevity.
Design Era:
Iconic Bertone-designed exterior, blending classic BMW aesthetics with a more angular modern design.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine teardown, rebuild, component inspection, timing, valve adjustments, oil pump, cooling system.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, lines.
Engine Management:
ECU diagnosis, sensor testing, ignition system, emissions control.
Transmission Manual:
Getrag 265 (dogleg optional on M535i), clutch system, gear selection, rebuild procedures.
Transmission Automatic:
ZF 4HP22 (common on 535i), fluid checks, cooler lines, rebuild procedures.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, axle shafts.
Suspension:
Front struts, rear trailing arms, bushings, springs, dampers, sway bars, power steering system.
Brakes:
Front/rear discs, ABS (if equipped), brake lines, calipers, master cylinder, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting, instruments, power windows, central locking.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, blower motor, evaporator, heater core, refrigerant handling.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, bumpers, glass replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic codes (for relevant systems), component testing procedures.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and top-offs, belt adjustments.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting wiring issues, component testing using multimeters and oscilloscopes.
Component Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding components like alternators, starters, fuel pumps, brake calipers.
Specifications Data:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistances, performance data.
Depth:
In-depth mechanical and electrical repair, including full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 265)
Manual Transmission Features:
Dogleg first gear pattern (on M535i, optional on others)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent specification)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 75W-90 (or equivalent specification)
NHTSA Rating:
Not rated under modern comprehensive testing protocols, but known for robust chassis.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (optional, standard on later M535i models)
Traction Control:
Not typically available on these models
Airbags:
Driver airbag optional, passenger airbag not typically available.
Seat Belts:
3-point front seat belts, 2-point rear lap belts (optional 3-point rear available).
Crumple Zones:
Designed with front and rear crumple zones for improved impact absorption.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (copper plugs); longer for platinum/iridium if applicable to the specific build.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 30,000-50,000 miles. Manual: Every 50,000-75,000 miles.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
10W-40 or 20W-50 (depending on climate and usage, consult manual for specific recommendations).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 Quarts) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (preferred) or DOT 3
Cooling System:
Radiator leaks, thermostat housing leaks, fan clutch failure, hoses degrading over time.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump failure, injector clogging, cold start injector issues.
Electrical:
Corroded grounds, failing relays, dashboard illumination issues, alternator diode failure.
Suspension:
worn bushings (control arm, sway bar, subframe), ball joint wear, strut mount failure.
Engine Mounts:
Hydraulic engine mounts can degrade and leak, leading to vibration.
Oil Pan Gasket:
Common leak point due to age and material degradation.
Oil Filter Example:
Mann-Filter W940/4 or equivalent (verify with specific vehicle VIN)
Air Filter Example:
Mann-Filter C2559 or equivalent (verify with specific vehicle VIN)
Heritage:
BMW, a brand with a long history in performance automotive engineering, known for its inline-six engines and sporting sedans.
E28 Generation:
The E28 generation (1981-1988) was the second generation of the BMW 5 Series, succeeding the E12 and preceding the E34. It marked significant updates in styling, engineering, and technology.
M535I Development:
The M535i was a homologation special for racing, featuring a tuned M30 engine and sportier suspension and styling elements, a precursor to the legendary E28 M5.
Production Period:
1981-1988 (E28 chassis) with 535i and M535i variants active through this period.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany.
