🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Chassis Code:

E30

Model Variant:

316i

Generation Name:

2nd Generation E30

Generation Years:

1982-1994 (Global production, specific ECE/NA markets differ)

Engine Code For 316I In Period:

M40B16

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible.

Brand Philosophy Reflected:

The E30 epitomized BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan with its balanced chassis and engaging driving dynamics.

Key Competitors In Era:

Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra, Opel Vectra.

Handling Dynamics:

Renowned for its precise steering, independent rear suspension, and near-perfect weight distribution.

Build Quality:

Typical BMW build quality for the era, characterized by robust construction and durable materials.

Sporty Appeal:

Offered a more driver-focused experience compared to many contemporaries.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Model Years:

1988, 1989, 1990, 1991

Covered Regions Or Markets:

All models covered (implies global applicability but likely focused on markets where E30 316i was prevalent)

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive, typically 1000+ pages for a full workshop manual (exact count not provided, inferred from 'huge amount of detailed repair information')

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English (inferred from product description's clarity and professional tone)

Format:

PDF (Instant Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, component diagnostics, timing belt replacement, valve adjustments, piston/ring replacement, crankshaft/connecting rod procedures.

Engine Management And Fuel:

Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, sensors (TPS, MAP, coolant temp), ECU diagnostics, emissions control systems.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan clutch, bleeding procedures.

Ignition System:

Coil, distributor (if applicable for the model year/region), spark plugs, ignition timing.

Transmission:

Manual transmission: clutch assembly, gearbox overhaul, shift linkage adjustment. Automatic transmission (if applicable): torque converter, planetary gear sets, valve body, fluid changes.

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings.

Suspension Front:

MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar, steering knuckle.

Suspension Rear:

Semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, sway bar.

Steering System:

Steering rack, tie rods, steering column, power steering pump and system (if equipped).

Brake System:

Front discs, rear drums (or discs on later/higher trims), calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, bleeding procedures, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, wiring diagrams, fuse box, relays.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, trim, sealing.

HVAC System:

Heater core, blower motor, A/C system (if equipped), controls.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults across all systems, fault code interpretation (if applicable).

Component Rebuilds:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine, transmission, differential, and brake caliper overhauls.

Adjustment Procedures:

Valve lash adjustment, clutch free play, throttle cable adjustment, parking brake adjustment.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for various vehicle configurations.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of required BMW special tools for specific procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostic information, component testing procedures, and expected values.

Precision Accuracy:

Emphasis on precise measurements, torque specifications, and alignment procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable (common for quality PDF manuals).

Compatibility:

PC & Mac Compatible (Windows 95, 98, 2000, NT, XP, Vista, 7, etc.)

Illustrations Quality:

High-quality diagrams and illustrations (implied by 'exploded views and diagrams,' 'illustrations, diagrams, specifications, step by step instructions, pictures').

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M40B16

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Displacement:

1596 cc (1.6 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 71.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1 or 9.0:1 (depending on specific market/revision)

Horsepower Ps:

73.5 kW / 99 hp @ 6000 rpm (DIN)

Torque Nm:

135 Nm (99 lb-ft) @ 4250 rpm (DIN)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch LE-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (RON 91 or higher)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed manual transmission (Getrag 245)

Transmission Type Optional:

3-speed automatic transmission (ZF 3HP22)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically operated

Manual Gear Ratios:

Typically 3.72:1 (1st), 2.12:1 (2nd), 1.38:1 (3rd), 1.00:1 (4th), 3.46:1 (Reverse)

Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:

BMW MTF LT-1 or equivalent (e.g., Castrol SAF-XO 75W-90, check manual for precise spec)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door Sedan, 4-door Sedan, 2-door Coupe, 2-door Convertible

Length Sedan:

approx. 4325 mm (170.3 in)

Width Sedan:

approx. 1675 mm (65.9 in)

Height Sedan:

approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in)

Wheelbase Sedan:

approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in)

Curb Weight Manual Sedan:

approx. 1120 kg (2469 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by body style and configuration, consult specific VIN.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Wheel Offset Et:

ET30 to ET41 (common)

Tire Size Standard:

175/70 R14 or 195/65 R14 (depending on wheel size)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Era Standard:

Designed to contemporary European safety standards, which were less stringent than modern ones. No formal Euro NCAP ratings for this generation.

Braking System Type:

Front ventilated discs, Rear drums (standard on 316i). ABS optional on some later models or higher trims.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia reel seatbelts front and rear (standard).

Headrests:

Front and rear headrests.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player. Aftermarket upgrades common.

Speaker Configuration:

Typically 2 or 4 speakers (front door, rear parcel shelf).

ABS:

Optional, typically on higher-spec models or later production years.

Cruise Control:

Optional, typically found on higher-spec models.

Early Connectivity:

No factory Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Analog systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually (check manual for specific recommendation for oil type used).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 20,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000 - 30,000 miles (depending on plug type specified).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for M40 engine: Every 40,000 - 50,000 miles or 4 years (failure causes severe engine damage).

Engine Oil Spec:

API SG/SH, ACEA A2/A3, viscosity 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check manual for climate-specific recommendations).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (Glysantin G48 or equivalent blue/green long-life coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

M40 Engine Timing Belt:

Known for stretching and potentially breaking if not replaced at recommended intervals, leading to catastrophic engine damage due to interference design.

Rear Wheel Arch Rust:

A common rust spot on E30s, particularly behind the rear wheels due to trapped moisture.

Door Seal Leaks:

Aging door seals can lead to water ingress, affecting interior and potentially electrical components.

Fuel Pump Reliability:

Older fuel pumps can degrade over time, leading to starting issues or power loss.

Dashboard Disintegration:

The plastic and foam used in the dashboards of E30s can degrade, leading to cracking and crumbling.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Brand Philosophy:

Founded on motorsport and engineering excellence, focusing on driver engagement and quality.

E30 Introduction:

Introduced in 1982 as a successor to the E21 3 Series.

E30 Facelift:

Received a significant facelift in late 1987 (for the 1988 model year) with revised front/rear styling, larger bumpers, and updated interior elements. The 1988-1991 models fall within this updated 'Late Model' E30.

316I Positioning In E30 Lineup:

Positioned as an entry-level, fuel-efficient model in the 3 Series range, offering the BMW experience at a more accessible price point.

Production Period E30:

1982-1994

Key Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), South Africa, USA (for specific models).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E30 Legacy:

Widely regarded as one of BMW's most iconic and collectible models, celebrated for its driving dynamics and design.

E30 Modern Classic:

Consistently ranks high on lists of desirable modern classics by automotive publications.

Owner Satisfaction Historical:

Generally high owner satisfaction, though maintenance is crucial for longevity.