Positioning:
The BMW 318i (E30) in 1987 was positioned as a premium compact sports sedan, known for its sporty handling, build quality, and driver-focused experience. It competed with cars like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, and higher trims of American sedans.
Strengths:
Exceptional handling and driving dynamics, strong build quality, refined engine, classic BMW design aesthetic.
Vehicle Appeal:
A popular choice for enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and a classic German driving experience. The E30 platform is highly regarded for its balance and chassis engineering.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics
Estimated Page Count:
400-600 (estimated for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Type:
Workshop Manual / Service Repair Manual
Format:
Print (assumed from product description)
Engine:
M10B18 (1.8L SOHC Inline-4), including fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic), ignition, cooling, lubrication, and emissions control systems.
Transmission:
Getrag 260 (4-speed Automatic and 5-speed Manual), including clutch, driveshaft, differential, and axle components.
Brakes:
Front discs, rear drums (standard), ABS (optional on some models). Includes hydraulic system, parking brake, and component replacement.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms. Includes shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, and alignment specifications.
Steering:
Recirculating ball steering system, power steering (optional). Includes steering rack, pump, hoses, and steering column.
Electrical:
12-volt system, alternator, starter, battery, lighting, horn, wipers, power windows (if equipped), central locking (if equipped), and fuse/relay assignments. Includes wiring diagrams.
Bodywork:
Exterior body panel removal/installation, doors, windows, bumpers, trim, HVAC system, and interior components.
Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid change, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation.
Repair:
Engine component overhaul (cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft), transmission rebuild, brake caliper/master cylinder replacement, suspension component replacement, fuel pump replacement, alternator/starter replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems.
Diagnostics:
Identification of fault codes (if applicable for the era), testing of sensors and actuators, basic electrical testing using multimeters.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications and diagnostic flowcharts.
Format Detail:
Printed book format, typically bound for durability in a workshop environment.
Quality:
Professional, clear diagrams and text, designed for repeated use.
Binding:
Stapled, perfect bound, or wire-o bound (common for workshop manuals to lie flat).
Paper:
Durable paper stock, often slightly glossy to resist grease and oil stains.
Engine Type:
Inline-4, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
1766 cc (1.8 Liters)
Horsepower:
102 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
107 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (approx.)
Injection System:
Bosch L-Jetronic (Electronic Fuel Injection)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition System
Transmission Type Standard:
Getrag 260 5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
ZF 4HP22 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate diaphragm spring clutch (manual)
Gear Ratios Manual:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: 4.01, 2nd: 2.32, 3rd: 1.40, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.81)
NHTSA Rating:
No specific NHTSA ratings available for this model year as per modern standards, but generally considered a safe vehicle for its era.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on front wheels (and rear on some later E30s, but likely front-only for '87 318i).
Airbags:
No driver or passenger airbags standard on this model year.
Seatbelts:
Standard three-point front seatbelts, lap belts in rear.
Crumple Zones:
Designed with front and rear crumple zones for impact energy absorption.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (recommendation based on era and oil technology).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., copper vs. platinum).
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
This engine (M10B18) uses a timing chain, not a belt, which is generally considered a lifetime component but should be inspected for noise or wear.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG rated oil, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 recommended for most climates (check manual for specific temperature ranges).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 Liters (4.7 Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check manual for specific BMW specification).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III ATF (or equivalent) (check manual for exact specification and capacity).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Failures Engine:
Head gasket leaks, oil leaks (valve cover, oil pan), cooling system component failures (radiator, water pump, hoses), fuel injector issues, idle control valve problems.
Common Failures Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, strut mounts, rear trailing arm bushings ('RTABs').
Common Failures Electrical:
Corroded electrical connectors, failing fuel pump relay, instrument cluster issues, headlight switch problems.
Common Failures Body:
Rust in common areas (fender wells, rocker panels, battery tray), headliner sagging, interior plastic degradation.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused, sporty, and well-engineered vehicles, often referred to as the 'Ultimate Driving Machine'.
E30 Generation:
The E30 generation (1982-1994) is a highly acclaimed series of BMW 3 Series, celebrated for its compact size, balanced chassis, and diverse engine options. The 318i represented the entry-level to mid-range offering.
E30 Production Years:
1982-1994 (global)
E30 Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), South Africa, Mexico, Thailand, USA (later years).
