🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Model Variant:

E30

Year:

1989

Chassis Code:

E30

Engine Code:

S14

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Performance compact luxury sedan.

Competitors:

Ford Sierra RS Cosworth, Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16/2.5-16.

Performance Focus:

Homologation special for motorsport, renowned for its driving dynamics and motorsport-derived engine.

Manual Utility:

Designed to empower owners and independent workshops to maintain and repair the complex electrical systems of the M3.

Cost Savings:

Enables DIY repairs and informed discussions with professional mechanics, potentially saving significant labor costs.

Intended User:

BMW M3 E30 owners, classic car enthusiasts, independent workshops, automotive technicians.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive electrical troubleshooting for the entire vehicle, front to back.

Estimated Pages:

Referencing typical electrical troubleshooting manuals for this era, expect 200-400 pages.

Type:

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely a printed manual or a high-quality scanned PDF.

📖 Manual Coverage

Electrical Systems:

Power distribution, fuse charts and details, ground distribution, data link connector, engine control system (DME), charging system, starting system, electronic transmission control (if applicable), supplementary restraint system (SRS/Airbag), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)/slip control, power mirrors, central locking, power windows, power seats, heated seats, power sunroof, horn, wiper/washer module, headlight washer system, windshield washer jet heaters, instrument cluster, multi-function clock, light switch, headlights/fog lights, turn/hazard lights, park/tail/underhood lights, license plate/luggage compartment lights, backup lights, brake lights, interior lights, glove box light/cassette box/ashtray lights/charging socket, crash control module, park ventilation, rear window defogger, integrated climate regulation, radio/CD player, radio/HiFi systems, cellular telephone preparation, cruise control (Tempomat), anti-theft system, on-board computer.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures for electrical faults, component testing, wiring harness inspection and repair, connector identification and testing, fuse and relay diagnostics, power and ground circuit checks, sensor diagnostics, actuator testing, module testing and replacement.

Depth:

Detailed explanations, deep illustrations, technical specifications, wiring diagrams, component location charts and views, splice and connector views, enabling advanced diagnostics and repairs for both novice and experienced mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Searchable PDF (if digital) with high-resolution scans.

Print Quality:

High-quality printing with clear diagrams and text (if physical).

Binding:

Durable binding suitable for workshop use (if physical).

Paper Quality:

Durable, glossy paper to withstand workshop conditions (if physical).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-Cylinder

Engine Displacement:

2.3 Liters (2302 cc)

Engine Code:

S14

Horsepower:

192 hp @ 6,000 rpm (Catalytic Converter version) / 200 hp @ 6,000 rpm (Non-Catalytic Converter version)

Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4,750 rpm (Catalytic Converter version) / 177 lb-ft @ 4,750 rpm (Non-Catalytic Converter version)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection)

Valve Train Type:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 4 Valves per Cylinder

Design Origin:

Derived from the M10 block, heavily modified for motorsport use.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual

Gearbox Model:

Getrag 265

Transmission Type Optional:

None offered for the 1989 M3

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4330 mm (170.5 in)

Width:

1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

1370 mm (53.9 in)

Wheelbase:

2560 mm (100.8 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1200 kg (2646 lbs)

Gross Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle placard, typically around 1600 kg

Wheel Size:

16 x 7 inches (standard)

Tire Size:

205/55 VR 16 (standard)

Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Not directly comparable to modern standards; E30 chassis was designed before stringent standardized testing.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on some markets/builds, optional on others.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag optional/standard depending on market and production date for 1989.

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts.

Body Construction:

Integrated safety cage, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Original BMW Bavaria C or RDS radio, often with cassette player. Optional premium HiFi systems available.

Cruise Control:

Tempomat cruise control system was an optional feature.

Cellular Telephone:

Provision for cellular telephone installation was available as an option.

Obc Features:

Optional On-Board Computer (OBC) with functions like fuel consumption, range estimation, and basic diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions.

Spark Plugs:

Refer to manual, typically around 30,000 miles for performance plugs.

Timing Belt:

The S14 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, requiring less frequent inspection and replacement than belts.

Engine Oil Type:

Refer to manual. Typically SAE 15W-50 or 20W-50 synthetic for performance. BMW approved oils are recommended.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1, BMW recommends DOT 4.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Refer to manual. Typically GL-4 gear oil for the Getrag 265. Specific BMW recommendations may apply.

Differential Fluid Type:

Refer to manual. Typically GL-5 gear oil. Check for LSD friction modifier if applicable.

Common Electrical Problems:

Age-related degradation of wiring insulation (especially around exhaust manifolds), faulty fuel pump relays, intermittent issues with the Motronic control unit, door lock actuator failures, window regulator problems, instrument cluster gauge failures (e.g., tachometer, fuel gauge).

Engine Wear:

Valve stem seal wear, VANOS seal failure (later models, not applicable to 1989 E30 M3 as it predates VANOS), oil pan gasket leaks.

Suspension Wear:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, shock absorbers.

Oil Filter Example:

Mann-Filter W920/1 or Mahle OX36D (verify for specific E30 M3 fitment).

Air Filter Example:

Mann-Filter C36007 or K&N E-2175 (verify for specific E30 M3 fitment).

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorsport:

BMW M GmbH (formerly BMW Motorsport GmbH) division created for racing and performance vehicles.

E30 Generation:

The M3 (E30) was a homologation special for Group A touring car racing, distinct from standard E30 models.

Production Period:

1986-1991

Production Volume:

17,970 units worldwide.

Assembly Location:

Munich, Germany.

Racing Dominance:

Highly successful in various touring car championships (DTM, ETCC, etc.) due to its chassis and S14 engine.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

Widely praised by automotive journalists for its handling, performance, and motorsport pedigree. Often cited as one of the best driver's cars of its era.

Collector Status:

Considered a highly desirable modern classic and a sought-after collector's item.