🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Chassis Code:

E30

Product Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Product Format:

Downloadable PDF

Engine Codes Covered:

M10, M20, M40, M42, M30 (partial for later models)

Transmission Codes Covered:

Getrag 240, Getrag 260, ZF 4HP22

Chassis Codes Covered:

All E30 variants (2-door, 4-door, convertible, touring)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact Executive / Sports Sedan

Bmw Positioning:

The E30 established BMW's reputation for sporty handling, driver engagement, and build quality in the compact luxury segment.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W201 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra, Chevrolet Camaro (for M3)

Design Philosophy:

Classic BMW proportions, driver-focused cockpit, renowned handling characteristics

Performance Focus:

Balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, powerful inline-six engines (in many variants), iconic M3 variant

Target Audience:

BMW E30 owners, aspiring owners, independent mechanics, and enthusiasts seeking in-depth maintenance and repair knowledge.

Benefits For Owner:

Empowers owners to perform routine maintenance, diagnose issues, and undertake repairs, potentially saving on labor costs and ensuring longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Generations Covered:

BMW E30 3 Series (1982-1991)

Engine Variants Covered:

316, 318i, 320i, 323i, 324d, 324td, 325e, 325i, 325ix, M3 (various engine configurations)

Estimated Page Count:

1000+ (varies by specific manual compilation)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Accessibility:

Instant Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (M10, M20, M40, M42, M30), Fuel system (EFI, K-Jetronic), Ignition system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Engine management systems (Motronic variants)

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmissions (Getrag 240, 260), Automatic transmissions (ZF 4HP22), Clutch system, Drive shafts, Differential, Axles

Chassis Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts), Rear suspension (Semi-trailing arms), Steering system (power and manual), Wheel bearings, Hubs

Brakes:

Front brakes (Disc), Rear brakes (Disc/Drum), ABS system (where applicable), Brake hydraulics, Parking brake

Electrical System:

Battery, Charging system (alternator, starter), Lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), Fuses and relays, Wiring diagrams, Instruments and gauges, Horn, Wiper/washer system

Body And Interior:

Body panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Seats, Upholstery, Climate control (HVAC), Body sealing

Maintenance:

Oil changes, Filter replacements, Spark plug service, Air filter replacement, Coolant flush, Belt replacement, Brake fluid flush, Battery service

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical faults, transmission issues, braking problems, starting issues, overheating

Repair Rebuild:

Engine overhaul, Transmission overhaul, Suspension component replacement, Brake caliper/rotor replacement, Steering rack replacement, Fuel injector replacement, Alternator/starter replacement, Radiator replacement

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD) procedures for specific ECUs, component testing, sensor diagnostics, fault code interpretation

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive factory-level detail for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, troubleshooting guides, and component testing procedures

Rebuild Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearance measurements, cylinder head assembly, piston ring installation, bearing clearances

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, searchable PDF with clear text and diagrams

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Licensing Terms:

No expiry dates, no extra fees

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family Common:

M20 Inline-4 and Inline-6

Engine Family Early:

M10 Inline-4

Engine Family Diesel:

M21 Diesel Inline-4

Engine Family Later 4Cyl:

M40 / M42 Inline-4 (16v)

Engine Family M3:

S14 Inline-4 (DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder)

318I Power:

Approx. 105 hp (M10), 113 hp (M40)

325I Power:

Approx. 170 hp (M20B25)

M3 Power:

Approx. 192-238 hp (S14 variants)

Fuel Injection Early:

Bosch K-Jetronic (mechanical fuel injection)

Fuel Injection Later:

Bosch Motronic (electronic fuel injection and ignition)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating varies by engine)

ECU Type Common:

Bosch Motronic ML4.1, M1.3, M1.7

Emissions Control:

Catalytic converter, Lambda sensor (O2 sensor)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual (e.g., Getrag 260)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP22)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch

Final Drive Ratio:

Varies by model and engine (e.g., 3.91 for 325i, 3.73 for 325ix)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in)

Length:

Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 in) for sedan

Width:

Approx. 1680 mm (66.1 in)

Height:

Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in) for sedan

Curb Weight:

Varies by model, approx. 1200-1400 kg (2645-3086 lbs)

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 400 liters (14.1 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Standards:

Designed to meet 1980s safety standards; specific official ratings may vary by region and year.

ABS:

Optional on most models, standard on some later variants and M3

Traction Control:

Optional on some later models (ASC)

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag became optional in later years (late 80s/early 90s), not standard throughout production.

Seatbelts:

3-point front seatbelts, rear lap belts (3-point optional/standard on later models)

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Radio Options:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette units (e.g., Bavaria C, Professional series) with optional CD changers in later years.

Speaker System:

Basic speaker configurations, often with optional amplifier upgrades.

On Board Computer:

Optional On-Board Computer (OBC) providing trip data, fuel consumption, and basic system checks.

Cruise Control:

Optional on most models.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; no Bluetooth or USB connectivity from factory. Aftermarket head unit installations common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used (consult manual for specific engine).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (copper, platinum, iridium).

Timing Belt Interval:

Not applicable for M10, M20, M40 (uses chain). M42 (16v 4-cyl) uses a chain. M3 (S14) uses a chain.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Engine Oil Spec:

API SG/SH, ACEA A2/A3, SAE 10W-40, 15W-40, 5W-30 (depending on climate, consult manual for specific engine and temp range).

Coolant Spec:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48), ethylene glycol based, 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.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4.

Rust Prone Areas:

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

Common Electrical Problems:

Fuse box issues, alternator belt slip, fuel pump relay failures, OBC (On-Board Computer) failures, cracked wiring insulation.

Suspension Wear:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, trailing arm bushings (especially rear), tie rod ends.

Cooling System:

Cracked plastic radiator end tanks, failing water pump, thermostat housing leaks, head gasket issues on high-mileage engines.

Fuel System Early:

Degradation of K-Jetronic components, leaking fuel injectors, worn fuel pump.

Interior Wear:

Worn driver's seat bolster, sagging headliner, cracked dashboard (dash cancer), broken vent louvers.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, founded in 1916, known for performance sedans and motorsport success.

E30 Predecessor:

BMW E21 3 Series

E30 Successor:

BMW E36 3 Series

E30 Introduction:

Introduced in 1982, designed by Boyke Boyer.

E30 Variants:

Introduced the first 3 Series Touring (wagon) and all-wheel drive (ix) models.

E30 M3 Significance:

Homologation special for Group A Touring Car racing, considered one of the greatest driver's cars ever made.

Production Period:

1982-1991

Production Locations:

Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), South Africa, Thailand, Venezuela, Mexico

Total Units Produced:

Over 2.3 million units

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

BMW 3 Series (including E30) frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production years.

Motorsport Success:

The E30 M3 dominated touring car racing globally, winning numerous championships.

Automotive Journalism Acclaim:

Widely praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and engineering.

Manual Accuracy:

Based on OEM factory service data, ensuring high accuracy and reliability.