🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

528i

Model Series:

E28

Model Generation:

First Generation (E28)

Chassis Code:

E28

Engine Code Common:

M30B28

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW 528i (E28) was positioned as a mid-size luxury sports sedan, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced engineering for its era.

Competitors:

Competed directly with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, and American luxury sedans of the period.

Key Features Vehicle:

Renowned for its driver-focused dynamics, robust M30 engine, sophisticated suspension, and solid build quality.

Manual Value:

This manual is invaluable for E28 owners seeking to perform maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs themselves, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of their classic BMW.

📋 Manual Details

Applicable Years:

1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988

Market Coverage:

Likely North American and European markets based on typical BMW releases

Estimated Page Count:

500-800 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed manual; PDF availability not specified but common for digital versions

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, valves

Engine Management Efi:

Bosch Motronic fuel injection and ignition systems, sensors, actuators, troubleshooting

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan clutch, coolant specifications

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, filter, lines, injectors, pressure regulator

Exhaust System:

Manifolds, catalytic converter (if applicable for the year/market), mufflers, pipes

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox, shift linkage, driveline components, fluid specifications

Transmission Automatic:

ZF 4HP22 automatic transmission, torque converter, valve body, fluid specifications, troubleshooting

Suspension Front:

MacPherson struts, control arms, bushings, sway bar, alignment specifications

Suspension Rear:

Semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications

Steering System:

Power steering pump, rack and pinion, steering column, tie rods, fluid specifications

Brake System:

Front vented discs, rear discs, calipers, master cylinder, ABS (if equipped), brake fluid specifications

Electrical System Charging:

Alternator, voltage regulator, battery, wiring diagrams

Electrical System Starting:

Starter motor, ignition switch, wiring diagrams

Lighting System:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, bulb specifications, wiring diagrams

HVAC System:

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (compressor, condenser, evaporator, controls), refrigerant type

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, chassis structure, rust prevention

Interior Trim:

Dashboard, seats, door panels, headliner, carpet

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, fault codes (if applicable), common problems and solutions

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection

Engine Overhaul:

Complete engine rebuild procedures, torque specifications, clearances

Transmission Service:

Fluid changes, filter replacement, clutch replacement, automatic transmission overhaul

Suspension Repair:

Component replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), alignment adjustments

Brake System Service:

Pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures, master cylinder replacement

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring harness repair, component testing, troubleshooting electrical faults

HVAC Repair:

Refrigerant system servicing (if detailed), component replacement, leak detection

Bodywork Repair:

Panel replacement, rust repair guidance, door and window adjustments

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds

Diagnostic Level:

Includes diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for common issues specific to the M30 engine and Bosch Motronic system

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners across all systems

Special Tools:

Identification and use of specialized BMW tools required for certain procedures

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (assumed for digital versions), Print (for physical copies)

Print Quality:

High-quality paper and printing for clarity of diagrams and text (expected for professional manuals)

Binding Type:

Perfect bound or spiral bound for ease of use in a workshop environment

Paper Type:

Durable, possibly coated paper to withstand workshop conditions

Diagrams And Illustrations:

Detailed technical illustrations, exploded views, and wiring diagrams

Text Searchability:

Searchable text content if in PDF format, enabling quick information retrieval

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Engine Code:

M30B28

Displacement:

2788 cc (2.8 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

86 mm x 80 mm

Compression Ratio:

Approx. 8.8:1

Horsepower Peak:

Approx. 184 PS (181 hp) at 5800 rpm (DIN)

Torque Peak:

Approx. 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) at 4000 rpm (DIN)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch LE-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection (depending on specific year/market)

Fuel Type Recommended:

Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (RON+MON)/2 or higher recommended

Ignition Type:

Electronic ignition with distributor and ignition coil (part of Motronic system)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change

Oil Specification:

API SG or equivalent, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 recommended (check manual for exact spec)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission

Optional Transmission:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch (manual)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF), typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 GL-4

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron-III (or equivalent) ATF

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2795 mm (110.0 inches)

Length:

4620 mm (181.9 inches)

Width:

1700 mm (66.9 inches)

Height:

1410 mm (55.5 inches)

Front Track:

1420 mm (55.9 inches)

Rear Track:

1446 mm (56.9 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1400-1550 kg (3086-3417 lbs) depending on transmission and equipment

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1950-2050 kg

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 0.45 cubic meters (16 cubic feet)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Era:

No standardized crash test ratings (e.g., NHTSA, Euro NCAP) in the modern sense for this period. BMW safety standards of the time emphasized structural integrity and occupant protection through passive restraint systems.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes, optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) introduced later in the E28 production run.

Passive Safety Features:

Reinforced passenger cell, safety steering column, front and rear crumple zones, three-point seatbelts (front and rear), head restraints (front).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM/Cassette stereo systems were standard, with optional premium sound systems. Features were limited by the era.

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional ABS was a significant driver assistance technology for its time. Cruise control was also available.

Connectivity Features:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Connectivity was limited to basic audio inputs if aftermarket head units were installed.

Comfort Features Available:

Power windows, power mirrors, central locking, air conditioning, sunroof, cruise control.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first (owner's manual recommendation).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km), depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).

Timing Belt Chain Maintenance:

The M30 engine uses a timing chain, which is designed to last the life of the engine. However, chain tensioners and guides may require inspection and replacement at higher mileages (e.g., 100,000+ miles).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or as per manual recommendation.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (typically ATF)

Common Wear Items:

Bushings (control arm, trailing arm, sway bar), motor mounts, fuel injectors (clogging), fuel pump, ABS sensor failures (if equipped), ignition coil failure, radiator and hoses.

Rust Prone Areas:

Wheel arches, rocker panels, around windows, battery tray area.

Engine Performance Issues:

Hesitation, rough idle, misfires often related to fuel delivery or ignition system components.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

BMW's heritage is built on producing 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' emphasizing performance, engineering, and driver engagement.

E28 Development:

The E28 was the second generation of the BMW 5 Series, succeeding the E12. It was a significant evolution, featuring a more modern and aerodynamic design, improved interior ergonomics, and the introduction of advanced technologies like ABS and electronic fuel injection across the range.

528I Positioning:

The 528i model represented a powerful and refined option within the E28 lineup, positioned above the 525i and below the performance-oriented M5.

Production Years E28:

1981-1988

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; some assembly may have occurred in other BMW plants globally.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism Awards:

While specific awards for the 1981-1988 528i might not be readily documented, the E28 generation consistently received praise from automotive publications for its driving dynamics, build quality, and performance, solidifying BMW's reputation.

Performance Ratings:

Consistently rated highly by contemporary automotive journalists for its handling, responsive steering, and powerful M30 engine.