Market Segment:
Compact executive sedan/coupe, renowned for sporty driving dynamics and build quality
Competitors 1989:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Volvo 240, Ford Sierra
Driving Dynamics:
Excellent handling, rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis
Usability:
Authoritative information for accurate repairs and maintenance, reducing guesswork and costly errors
Value Proposition:
Essential tool for owners and mechanics to maintain the longevity and performance of the E30 318i
Coverage:
Full service and repair instructions
Pages:
Estimated 500-800+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)
Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Likely printed manual; digital versions (PDF) often derived from original prints
Engine:
Engine mechanicals (M40B18), fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU)
Transmission:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission (if applicable to model variant), clutch system, driveshafts
Brakes:
Brake system components (discs, calipers, master cylinder, lines), parking brake, ABS (if equipped)
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (struts, control arms, bushings, springs, shock absorbers), steering system (rack and pinion, power steering)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, instrumentation, fuses, relays, auxiliary components
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, chassis components, collision repair basics
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, brake pad replacement
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical diagnostics and repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault codes (if applicable), symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic routines for various systems
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIYers
Digital Format:
Typically PDF; quality can vary based on scanning of original print
Print Quality Original:
High-quality technical printing with clear diagrams and text
Binding:
Original would be professionally bound; digital format bypasses this
Paper Type Original:
Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1796 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 81.0 mm
Horsepower:
114 hp @ 5500 rpm (approximate, depending on market and exact tune)
Torque:
119 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection (typically L-Jetronic or similar phased injection system)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91 or higher recommended)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic (specific model number varies)
Length:
Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1674 mm (65.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1200-1300 kg (2645-2866 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by specific model, typically around 1700-1800 kg
Crash Testing Era:
E30 platform predates standardized crash testing as we know it today (e.g., NCAP), but BMW vehicles of this era were engineered with safety in mind.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often available as an option
Traction Control:
Traction control was rare or non-existent on the 318i E30 of this year
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, often with pretensioners; 2-point rear seatbelts
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag became available later in the E30 lifecycle, might not be standard or available on all 1989 318i models
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (recommendation based on era and oil quality)
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Timing Belt:
Replace every 40,000 - 60,000 miles or 5 years (CRITICAL for M40 engine to prevent catastrophic failure upon breakage)
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check manual for specific BMW approval)
Coolant:
BMW coolant or equivalent G48 ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 (e.g., Pentosin MTF.2 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron III ATF (or specified equivalent for ZF transmission)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid
M40 Engine Concerns:
Timing belt failure (due to lack of maintenance), potential head gasket issues, idle control valve problems, early valve stem seal wear
E30 Chassis Concerns:
Rust (especially around wheel arches, rocker panels, jacking points), worn suspension bushings, heater core leaks, rear subframe mounting points
Electrical Concerns:
Corroded grounds, failing fuel pumps/relays, instrument cluster issues, window regulator failures
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for engineering excellence, performance, and luxury, particularly in the 'ultimate driving machine' ethos.
E30 Generation:
The E30 generation (1982-1994) is a highly acclaimed series, known for its compact size, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and enduring design. The 318i was an entry-level model within this successful platform.
318I Introduction E30:
The 318i variant, with its more economical 4-cylinder engine, broadened the appeal of the E30 range.
Production Period:
E30 series produced from 1982 to 1994. The 318i M40 engine variant was introduced in 1987/1988.
E30 Reputation:
The E30 series is widely regarded as one of BMW's finest generations, frequently appearing on 'best of' lists for its driving experience and build quality.
Car And Driver Comparison:
Often featured and praised in contemporary comparison tests by automotive publications like Car and Driver for its handling and value.
