🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Code:

E30

Variant:

318i

Generation Name:

E30

Generation Years:

1983-1991

Engine Code Primary:

M10 (M10B18)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional workshops maintaining BMW E30 318i models

Value Proposition:

Provides professional-level repair and maintenance guidance for a classic BMW model, empowering owners to perform complex tasks themselves or understand the work being done by professionals.

Comprehensiveness:

Covers virtually every aspect of the vehicle's mechanical, electrical, and body systems, offering an 'all-in-one' resource.

Professional Standard:

Replicates the depth and detail found in official BMW factory service manuals used by dealerships.

Digital Convenience:

Delivered in a portable PDF format for easy access and searchability across multiple devices.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

All E30 318i models within the 1983-1991 production run

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive A-Z, covering all repair topics

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 800-1200 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine overhaul, rebuild procedures, internal component specifications, timing belt/chain, valve adjustment, piston/ring replacement, crankshaft/connecting rod installation, cylinder head removal/installation

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic depending on specific year), fuel pump testing, injector cleaning/replacement, fuel pressure regulation, fuel tank servicing, fuel filter replacement

Ignition System:

Ignition coil, distributor (if applicable), spark plugs, ignition timing, electronic control unit (ECU) diagnostics

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan operation, bleeding procedures, troubleshooting leaks

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable), mufflers, exhaust pipe replacement, leak detection

Transmission Manual:

Clutch replacement, gearbox overhaul, gear selection mechanisms, driveshaft and CV joint maintenance, lubricant specifications

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) change and level check, torque converter service, troubleshooting common automatic transmission issues (if applicable to 318i models)

Brake System:

Front and rear brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper and wheel cylinder servicing, brake fluid flush and bleeding, parking brake adjustment, ABS diagnostics (if equipped)

Suspension System:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), wheel bearing replacement, alignment specifications

Steering System:

Power steering pump, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column service, lubrication

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuse box layout, lighting system, instrumentation, power windows, central locking

Body And Chassis:

Body panel repair, rust prevention, door and window seal replacement, interior trim removal/installation, underbody protection

Preventative Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, coolant checks and changes, brake fluid checks, tire rotations

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, and electrical issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Engine Repair:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine rebuilds, component replacements, and internal adjustments

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement, manual gearbox servicing, automatic transmission fluid changes and filter replacements

Brake Overhaul:

Front and rear brake caliper/wheel cylinder rebuild, drum brake adjustments, brake line replacement

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagram interpretation, testing electrical components, diagnosing shorts and open circuits

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Replacement of bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, and steering components

Bodywork And Trim Replacement:

Removal and installation of interior and exterior trim pieces, door panel replacement, bumper repair

Depth:

In-depth, professional-grade coverage suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics, including torque specifications, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and detailed schematics

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Portable Document Format (PDF)

Searchability:

Typically searchable text-based PDF for efficient information retrieval

Digital Quality:

High resolution, ensuring clarity of diagrams, illustrations, and text

Digital Access:

Digital download, accessible on computers, tablets, and smartphones

Digital Paper Emulation:

Mimics the layout and detail of a physical workshop manual

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Engine Family:

M10

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1766 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

89.0 mm x 71.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

Approximately 8.8:1 to 9.5:1 (depending on specific model year and market)

Horsepower Peak:

Approx. 98-105 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm (depending on specific model year and market)

Torque Peak:

Approx. 101-105 lb-ft @ 3200-3500 rpm (depending on specific model year and market)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic or Bosch Motronic fuel injection system

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded Gasoline, Octane Rating 91 RON (Research Octane Number) or higher (equivalent to ~87 AKI in North America)

Cooling Type:

Water-cooled, pressurized system

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 Liters (with filter change)

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (depending on climate); SAE 10W-40 may be acceptable in colder climates (refer to manual for specific recommendations)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 245)

Transmission Type Optional:

3-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 4HP22)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated

Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:

Dexron II or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 inches)

Length:

Approx. 4300-4340 mm (169.3-170.9 inches)

Width:

Approx. 1670-1680 mm (65.7-66.1 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1380-1415 mm (54.3-55.7 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1150-1250 kg (2535-2756 lbs), depending on body style and equipment

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle's compliance plate (typically around 1600 kg)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Standard Tire Size:

185/70 HR 14 (often on 14x6 or 14x6.5 inch wheels)

Optional Tire Size:

195/60 HR 14, 205/55 VR 15 (on alloy wheels)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Performance:

While specific official ratings from modern bodies like NHTSA/Euro NCAP are scarce for this era, the E30 chassis was known for its robust build quality and progressive crumple zones for its time. The manual will detail structural components for repair and safety system integrity.

Braking System:

Front: Ventilated Disc Brakes; Rear: Disc Brakes (all models) or Drum Brakes (early models may have had drums)

ABS:

Optional on later models

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia reel seatbelts (front), 2-point lap belts (rear, often) or 3-point belts on later models.

Head Restraints:

Front and rear head restraints

Chassis Design:

Integral safety cage construction, energy-absorbing steering column

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM/Cassette radio, often with upgraded speaker options. Manual will cover basic operation and component replacement (speakers, antenna).

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on later models, requiring specific diagnostic procedures detailed in the manual.

Power Windows:

Available on many models, manual covers motor replacement and window regulator repair.

Central Locking:

Available on many models, manual covers actuator and pump repair/replacement.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. The manual will provide precise intervals.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km)

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km), depending on plug type (e.g., standard vs. platinum)

Coolant Flush And Replacement:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km)

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, or ACEA A2/A3 (refer to manual for exact BMW approval codes).

Coolant Type:

BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent ethylene glycol-based, phosphate-free type) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Common Problems Engine:

Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), cooling system component failure (water pump, thermostat, hoses), fuel injector issues, timing belt tensioner wear.

Common Problems Electrical:

Alternator failure, starter motor issues, wiring harness degradation, headlight switch problems, fuel pump relay failures.

Common Problems Suspension And Chassis:

Worn control arm bushings, trailing arm bushings, differential mounts, strut mounts, subframe mounting points (subframe cracks can occur in neglected examples).

Common Problems Body:

Rust, particularly in fender wells, rocker panels, battery tray area, and rear shock towers. Door seal degradation leading to water ingress.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long history of producing driver-focused, sporty sedans and coupes, establishing a reputation for engineering excellence and performance.

E30 Significance:

The E30 generation (1983-1991) succeeded the E21 and is widely considered one of BMW's most iconic and successful models, known for its balanced chassis, engaging driving dynamics, and timeless design. It introduced the influential Touring (wagon) body style and the legendary M3 variant.

318I Positioning:

The 318i served as the entry-level gasoline model in many markets, offering a more fuel-efficient and accessible entry point into the 3 Series range, powered by the robust M10 engine.

Production Period:

1983-1991

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), also assembled in other locations globally.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E30 Reputation:

The E30 generation is consistently ranked among the best driver's cars of its era and has a significant following in classic car and motorsports circles. It's praised for its handling, reliability (when properly maintained), and timeless design.

Club And Enthusiast Ratings:

Highly regarded by BMW clubs and automotive publications for its driving experience and longevity.

Manual Quality Endorsement:

Described as 'The Same Type Of Manual The Professionals Use', indicating a high level of detail and accuracy suitable for official service standards.