🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Variant:

328i

Chassis Code:

E30

Generation Years:

1982-1994 (global), 1987-1991 (North America for 328i)

Engine Code:

M20B28

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact Executive Sport Sedan/Coupe, known for its engaging driving dynamics and build quality.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Saab 900.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, and communicative steering, making it a driver's car.

Build Quality:

Typical BMW solid construction and durable materials.

Design:

Iconic, timeless design by Claus Luthe, characterized by clean lines and a sporty profile.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Start Year:

1987

Coverage End Year:

1991

Region Covered:

North America (primarily, based on model variant)

Estimated Page Count:

High (typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Type:

Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Content Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of M20B28 engine components including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing system, and lubrication system.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), starting system, charging system, sensor diagnostics, and ECU troubleshooting.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, and evaporative emission control (EVAP) system.

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, clutch system, driveshafts, differential, and axle components.

Braking System:

Front and rear disc brake systems, ABS (where applicable), brake fluid, lines, calipers, rotors, and master cylinder.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), steering rack, power steering system, and wheel alignment procedures.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, and climate control system.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and emissions control components.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, lighting system, instruments, interior and exterior electrical components, fuses, relays, and battery system.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel repair, interior trim, seating, door mechanisms, glass, and structural components.

Climate Control:

HVAC system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, controls, and blower motor.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid level checks, brake pad inspection, tire rotation, and belt inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation, and symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, replacement, and reassembly for all major systems.

Diagnostics:

Procedures for using diagnostic tools, interpreting scan data, and diagnosing electronic control unit (ECU) issues.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque specifications, clearances, measurements, and critical tolerances for all components.

Engine Diagnostics:

Detailed procedures for diagnosing engine performance issues using electrical test equipment, vacuum gauges, and compression testers.

Transmission Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting steps for both manual and automatic transmissions, including clutch adjustment and hydraulic system checks.

Body Repair:

Includes guidance on body panel alignment, dent repair, welding procedures, and rust prevention.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics, and electrical system troubleshooting.

Electrical Schematics:

Includes detailed, manufacturer-grade wiring diagrams for all electrical systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Searchable PDF, allowing for quick navigation and keyword searches. Optimized for digital viewing and printing.

Quality:

High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and photographic illustrations.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Completeness Level:

Highly comprehensive, intended for professional technicians and dedicated enthusiasts for complete vehicle servicing.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2793 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 81.0 mm

Horsepower:

Approx. 168 hp @ 5800 rpm (North American spec)

Torque:

Approx. 227 Nm (167 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm (North American spec)

Injection System:

Bosch Motronic Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or distributor-based ignition, depending on exact year and market.

Cooling System Type:

Pressurized, liquid-cooled system with a belt-driven water pump and thermostatically controlled fan.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Getrag 260 5-Speed Manual Transmission

Type:

ZF 4HP-22 4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Manual Gear Ratios:

Typically: 1st: 3.83, 2nd: 2.12, 3rd: 1.31, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.81 (Ratios may vary slightly)

Automatic Features:

Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency at higher speeds.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4365 mm (171.9 in)

Width:

Approx. 1678 mm (66.1 in)

Height:

Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2575 mm (101.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1300-1350 kg (2866-2976 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Performance:

While official NHTSA/IIHS ratings for this specific year/model are limited, the E30 platform was known for its robust safety cage and crumple zones for its era. Frontal impacts were generally well-managed.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models, particularly later E30s and those with higher trims.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag typically optional or standard on later models within this range. Passenger airbag was not common in E30s.

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette player with optional CD player for later models. Basic speaker system.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on most models.

Auxiliary Inputs:

None standard. Aftermarket solutions exist.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for M20 engines. Recommended replacement interval is typically every 40,000-60,000 miles (64,000-96,000 km) or 5 years due to its interference engine design. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH, ACEA A2-96 or similar. Viscosity: 5W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50 depending on climate. Check manual for exact spec.

Coolant Type:

BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based) mixed with distilled water at a 50/50 ratio. Do NOT use Dex-Cool or other silicate-based coolants.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 Gear Oil. Typically SAE 75W-90 or 75W-80.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF Dexron III (or equivalent, check manual for precise specification).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Differential Fluid:

GL-5 Gear Oil. Typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Consult manual for specific limited-slip (LSD) requirements if applicable.

Rear Subframe Mounts:

Cracking or separation of the rear subframe mounting points due to stress. Requires reinforcement or replacement.

Heater Core Leaks:

Leaking heater core leading to coolant smell inside the cabin and fogged windows.

Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:

Common leak point on the M20 engine.

Window Regulator Failure:

Electric or manual window regulators can fail, making windows difficult to operate.

Fisheye Bushings:

Worn control arm 'fisheye' bushings causing sloppy handling and alignment issues.

Fuel Pump Reliability:

Older fuel pumps can become less reliable over time.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, high-performance vehicles with exceptional engineering.

E30 Significance:

The E30 generation is a highly regarded classic BMW, credited with cementing the brand's reputation for sport sedans and coupes. It introduced many innovations for BMW.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (primarily Dingolfing and Munich)

Production Period:

The E30 chassis was produced from 1982 to 1994. The 328i variant was primarily a European market model, but some may have been imported or converted for North America in later years of the E30 run.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism Awards:

The E30 generation, in its various forms, was frequently praised by automotive press for its handling and driving pleasure. Specific awards for the 328i variant might be less documented than the more common US market 325i.