🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

318i

Year:

1988

Chassis Code:

E30

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe

Positioning:

Entry-level luxury sports sedan, known for its balanced chassis, engaging driving dynamics, and build quality.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Volvo 240, Acura Integra, perhaps entry-level models from Cadillac (Cimarron, though inferior).

Handling:

Renowned 'Ultimate Driving Machine' heritage, excellent weight distribution, responsive steering.

Durability:

Solid construction and robust mechanicals, characteristic of BMW's engineering.

Design:

Timeless E30 design by Claus Luthe, considered one of BMW's most iconic shapes.

📋 Manual Details

Engine:

YES

Transmission:

YES

Brakes:

YES

Suspension:

YES

Electrical System:

YES

Body And Chassis:

YES

Climate Control:

YES

Fuel System:

YES

Cooling System:

YES

Exhaust System:

YES

Steering:

YES

Interior Components:

YES

Maintenance Procedures:

YES

Troubleshooting:

YES

Diagnostic Procedures:

YES

Wiring Diagrams:

YES

Estimated Pages:

500+

Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, though not explicitly stated; typical for modern reproductions)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Detailed coverage of the M40 engine, including fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition timing, emissions control systems, and ECU diagnostics.

Powertrain:

Comprehensive information on the engine, clutch, manual transmission (Getrag 260), driveshaft, differential, and axles.

Brake System:

Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs (depending on market/spec), brake fluid specifications, ABS (if equipped), and hydraulic system bleeding procedures.

Suspension Steering:

Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, shock absorber replacement, bushing inspection and replacement, power steering system service.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Full wiring diagrams for all major systems, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, instrumentation, and accessory circuits.

Climate Control Hv Ac:

Operation, maintenance, and repair of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, including refrigerant handling (R12 for this era).

Engine Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for engine disassembly, component inspection, ring and bearing replacement, valve guide and seat servicing, and reassembly.

Transmission Overhaul:

Detailed procedures for manual gearbox disassembly, component replacement (synchros, bearings, seals), and assembly.

Brake Service:

Rotor and pad replacement, caliper rebuilding, brake line inspection and replacement, master cylinder service.

Suspension Repair:

Replacement of control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, and shock absorbers/struts.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic approaches, fuse and relay identification, testing of sensors, actuators, and control modules.

Fuel System Maintenance:

Fuel pump testing, injector cleaning, fuel filter replacement, fuel pressure checks.

Cooling System Service:

Radiator flush and replacement, thermostat and water pump replacement, coolant specifications.

Body Panel Replacement:

Instructions for removing and installing fenders, doors, hoods, and bumpers, including alignment.

Interior Trim Removal:

Procedures for removing door panels, dashboard components, center consoles, and seat covers.

Exterior Trim Replacement:

Instructions for body moldings, emblems, glass seals, and trim pieces.

Lubrication Points:

Specific lubrication points for suspension, steering, and chassis components.

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners, including engine, drivetrain, suspension, and chassis components.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive, from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Assumed - standard for this type of product). Searchable text is highly desirable.

Quality Description:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format). If printed, would typically be spiral-bound for lay-flat use.

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital format). Original manuals were printed on durable paper suitable for workshop environments.

Manual Completeness:

This is a comprehensive workshop manual, providing detailed technical data, diagnostic procedures, and repair instructions equivalent to factory service manuals used by dealerships.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M40B18

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves

Displacement:

1796 cc (1.8 Liters)

Horsepower Hp:

113 hp @ 5600 rpm (approx.)

Torque Lb Ft:

116 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (approx.)

Injection System:

Bosch Motronic M1.3 (Electronic Fuel Injection and Ignition Control)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)

Cooling Medium:

Water-cooled

Oil Capacity Quarts:

4.5 quarts (with filter)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless ignition (via Motronic ECU)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual

Type:

4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)

Manual Gearbox Model:

Getrag 260

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II (or equivalent specification)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

168.5 inches (4280 mm)

Width:

67.3 inches (1710 mm)

Height:

54.7 inches (1390 mm)

Wheelbase:

101.2 inches (2570 mm)

Curb Weight Lbs:

2756 lbs (1250 kg) (approx., manual transmission)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs:

3800 lbs (approx.)

Trunk Capacity Cubic Feet:

15.1 cubic feet (approx.)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

Not rated by modern standards (testing procedures were different).

ABS:

Optional on most models, standard on some late-production or sport variants.

Traction Control:

Rarely available on the 318i in this generation.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag became standard later in the E30 production, but likely optional or unavailable on early '88 models.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear.

Body Structure:

Unitized steel body-on-frame construction with crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM cassette player, often with premium speaker upgrade options. Basic analog controls.

Display:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. Warning lights for system status.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on many models.

Bluetooth Usb:

Not applicable. No factory connectivity options of this nature.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Miles:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil used). Original recommendations may have been shorter.

Spark Plug Replacement Miles:

Typically every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (refer to manual for specific type and interval).

Timing Belt Replacement Miles:

Crucial for M40 engine: Every 40,000 - 50,000 miles or 4 years, as it is an interference engine.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG, ACEA A2/B2 or higher. Viscosity: 5W-30, 10W-40, or 15W-40 depending on climate. Synthetic recommended.

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4, low-viscosity, non-silicone based.

Engine M40:

Timing belt failure (critical), valve stem seals, VANOS unit (later M40 versions, less common on early '88), idle control valve issues, rough idle from vacuum leaks.

Suspension:

Worn control arm bushings, rear trailing arm bushings (RTABs), differential mounts, and worn shock absorbers.

Electrical:

Corroded grounds, faulty fuel pump relays, alternator issues, odometer gear failure (common on E30s).

Body:

Rusting in typical E30 areas: battery tray, rear wheel arches, rocker panels, jacking points.

Timing Belt:

Strict adherence to replacement intervals is paramount to avoid catastrophic engine damage.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) has a long history of producing sophisticated and performance-oriented vehicles, particularly known for its sporty sedans.

E30 Generation Context:

The E30 generation (1982-1994) was a pivotal model for BMW, solidifying its reputation in the compact executive segment and introducing new technologies. The 318i was the successor to the 316i and 318i models of the E21 generation.

Production Years:

E30 production: 1982-1994. The 318i with the M40 engine was introduced in 1987.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary manufacturing in Munich, Germany, with some production in other BMW facilities and licensed assembly plants worldwide.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

The E30 generation was widely praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and performance, frequently appearing on 'best of' lists for its era.

Collectibility:

The E30 M3 is legendary, but the standard 318i is increasingly recognized as a well-engineered classic with strong enthusiast following.