Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and owners seeking to maintain and repair their E30 320i.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W201 (190E), Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, and engaging driving experience.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW build quality of the era, known for durability and longevity with proper maintenance.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair, and tuning for M20B20 engine variants.
Engine Management:
Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system, ignition system diagnostics and repair, sensor identification and testing.
Transmission Manual:
Repair and maintenance of Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission, clutch system service, driveshaft and U-joint inspection.
Transmission Automatic:
Service and repair of ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission, hydraulic control system, torque converter.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson strut, rear semi-trailing arm suspension repair, shock absorber replacement, bushing renewal, wheel alignment procedures.
Steering:
Servotronic power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack overhaul, tie rod end replacement.
Brakes:
Front ventilated disc brakes, rear solid disc brakes service, brake system bleeding, caliper overhaul, ABS system diagnostics (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, starter motor, alternator, battery service, fuse and relay identification, lighting system repair, instrument cluster troubleshooting.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, rust prevention, door and window mechanisms, interior trim removal and installation, bumper repair.
Heating Ventilation And Ac:
HVAC system diagnosis, blower motor replacement, refrigerant system service (with safety precautions), heater core replacement.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil change intervals, filter replacement (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid service.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, error code interpretation.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components, including torque specifications and critical measurements.
Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilding, including component specifications and tolerances.
Restoration:
Guidance on cosmetic and mechanical restoration, including advice on sourcing parts and period-correct finishes.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Era Compliance:
Designed to meet safety standards of its era, including crumple zones.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts in front, lap belts in rear.
Headrests:
Front and rear headrests on most models.
Oil Change:
Recommended every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-15,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Timing Belt:
Crucial to replace every 30,000-40,000 miles (48,000-64,000 km) or 4 years due to interference engine design.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check owner's manual for specific climate recommendations). BMW HP-Special or equivalent synthetic.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II (or Dexron III as a replacement).
Rust:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, jacking points, and battery tray are common rust areas.
Cooling System:
Cracked plastic expansion tank, failing water pump, and radiator leaks are common.
Fuel Delivery:
Failing in-tank fuel pump, clogged fuel filter, and aging fuel lines.
Electrical:
Corroded grounds, failing AFM sensor (M20), and dashboard indicator light issues.
Bmw Legacy:
Part of BMW's long lineage of sporty, driver-focused sedans and coupes.
E30 Lineage:
The E30 platform was a significant evolution, introducing a more modern chassis and styling over its predecessor (E21).
320I Positioning:
The 320i served as an entry-level to mid-range model in the E30 lineup, offering a balance of performance and economy.
Production Period:
1982-1994 (E30 platform overall), 1987-1991 for the specified 320i variant.
