Vehicle Segment:
Executive Sedan
Target Audience:
Luxury car buyers seeking comfort, performance, and build quality.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100, Volvo 740/760.
Design Philosophy:
Classic BMW ' Hofmeister kink ' C-pillar design, driver-focused cockpit, solid engineering.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, accurate repair and maintenance information essential for preserving the longevity and performance of the E28 518, differentiating from incomplete or low-quality alternatives.
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage of the M10 engine variants specific to the 518 model.
Fuel System:
Detailed diagnostics and repair for carbureted or early fuel injection systems (depending on specific 518 variant).
Ignition System:
Ignition timing, component testing, and troubleshooting.
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, hoses, and fan system maintenance and repair.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter (if applicable), muffler, and pipework diagnosis and replacement.
Transmission:
Service and repair procedures for manual and automatic transmissions fitted to the E28 518.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive system, driveshafts, differential, and axle components.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, and alignment procedures.
Steering System:
Power steering pump, rack, hoses, and steering column components.
Braking System:
Front and rear disc brakes, master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, and ABS (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, wiring harnesses, fuses, relays, and lighting systems.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, rust prevention, interior trim, and chassis components.
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnostics and repair, including heating and ventilation.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides and fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Preventative Maintenance:
Regular service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, and fluid checks.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed breakdown of maintenance tasks by mileage or time intervals.
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head repair, piston and connecting rod replacement, crankshaft service.
Transmission Repair:
Clutch replacement, transmission rebuild, gear selection linkage adjustments.
Brake Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake fluid flush, caliper rebuilding.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostics for common electrical faults using wiring diagrams.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Replacement of ball joints, tie rod ends, control arms, and steering rack.
Bodywork And Paint:
Guidance on minor body repairs and panel alignment.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed troubleshooting flowcharts and component testing procedures.
Repair Instructions:
Step-by-step, illustrated instructions for virtually all repair operations.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Crash Test Data:
Limited official data from modern standards, but known for robust chassis and body structure for its era.
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs. ABS optional on later models or higher trims.
Steering System:
Recirculating ball with power assist (standard).
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, integrated fog lamps on some models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000-60,000 km (24,000-36,000 miles) with premium spark plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 recommended for general use. Consult manual for specific climate recommendations.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 GL-4 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF fluid.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II/III ATF or specific BMW power steering fluid.
Engine M10:
Potential for oil leaks from the oil pan gasket, valve cover gasket, and front crank seal. Timing chain wear over high mileage. Carburetor or fuel injection system tuning can be sensitive.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Thermostat failures leading to overheating.
Suspension:
Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends leading to sloppy steering and poor alignment. Rear trailing arm bushings are a common failure point.
Electrical:
Corrosion in fuse box terminals, failure of heater blower motor, headlight switch issues, and aging wiring harnesses can lead to various electrical gremlins.
Rust:
Rust can affect wheel arches, rocker panels, door bottoms, and the trunk floor. Thorough inspection is crucial.
Brand Reputation:
BMW is renowned for producing sporty, driver-oriented luxury vehicles with a focus on engineering excellence and performance.
E28 Introduction:
The E28 replaced the E12 5 Series and introduced significant advancements in styling and engineering. The 518 was the entry-level model in many markets.
E28 Design:
Designed by Claus Luthe, it featured cleaner lines and improved aerodynamics compared to its predecessor, with a more integrated bumper design.
Production Period:
The E28 generation was produced from 1981 to 1988. The 518 model was particularly popular in European markets.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany, but also assembly in South Africa and Dingolfing.