🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series (E30)

Model Variants:

316, 316i, 318i, 318is, 320i, 320is, 324, 324D, 324TD

Applicable Years:

1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990

Chassis Code:

E30

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan and Coupe (sporty rear-wheel-drive focus)

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional workshops seeking detailed information on the E30 generation

Competitors:

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

Vehicle Philosophy:

Driving dynamics, balance, quality engineering, a balance of performance and everyday usability

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides in-depth knowledge to maintain and repair the E30, extending its lifespan and preserving its performance characteristics

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Complete Workshop Service Repair

Specific Coverage:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Maintenance

Estimated Pages:

1000+

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed overhauls, component testing, timing, valve adjustments, piston/ring replacement, crankshaft/connecting rod procedures

Engine Management:

Fuel injection (K-Jetronic, L-Jetronic, Motronic), ignition system diagnostics and adjustment, sensor testing, ECU information

Drivetrain:

Manual and automatic transmission removal/installation, clutch replacement, driveshaft, differential, axle shaft service

Suspension And Steering:

Strut replacement, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, steering rack, power steering system service

Braking System:

Disc brake service (pads, rotors), drum brake service, hydraulic system bleeding, ABS system diagnostics (if applicable to specific models)

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, starter, alternator, battery, lighting system, fuse/relay identification, instrument cluster service

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:

HVAC system diagnosis, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor and system service

Body And Chassis:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim removal, corrosion protection

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid level checks, belt inspection and replacement

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common faults, fault code interpretation (where applicable)

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilds

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of BMW-specific tools for certain procedures

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque specifications, clearances, measurements, and acceptable wear limits

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

Likely high-resolution scans, searchable text for PDF versions

Compatibility:

Viewable on most computers, tablets, and smartphones

Recommendation:

Printable for workshop use, though digital access is primary

N/A:

Not applicable for digital download

N/A:

Not applicable for digital download

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes Covered:

M10 (4-cylinder petrol), M20 (6-cylinder petrol), M21 (4-cylinder diesel), M21 Turbo Diesel (TD)

316 Spec:

1.6L M10 Inline-4, ~75-90 hp (carbureted/early injection)

316I Spec:

1.8L M10 Inline-4, ~105 hp (L-Jetronic)

318I Spec:

1.8L M10 Inline-4, ~105 hp (L-Jetronic), later 1.8L M40 Inline-4 ~115 hp

318Is Spec:

1.8L M42 Inline-4, ~138 hp (DOHC, Vanos)

320I Spec:

2.0L M20 Inline-6, ~125-129 hp (L-Jetronic)

320Is Spec:

2.0L M20 Inline-6, ~125-129 hp (L-Jetronic, specific tuning for certain markets)

324D Spec:

2.4L M21 Diesel Inline-6, ~86 hp

324Td Spec:

2.4L M21 Turbo Diesel Inline-6, ~115 hp

Injection Types:

Bosch K-Jetronic, Bosch L-Jetronic, Bosch Motronic

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Petrol (RON 91/95/98 depending on engine), Diesel

🔧 Transmission

Common Transmission:

Getrag 5-speed Manual

Automatic Transmission:

ZF 4-speed Automatic

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate clutch (manual)

Differential Type:

Limited Slip Differential (LSD) available as option on some models

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door Sedan, 4-door Sedan, Convertible, Touring (Wagon, less common/market specific)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 1100 - 1400 kg (depending on model and equipment)

🛡️ Safety Features

Historical Ratings:

NAIAS (North American Import Automotive Safety) or Euro NCAP ratings from this era are limited; focused on passive safety design of the time

Available Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on later/higher-spec models

Standard Features:

Front crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell, safety glass, 3-point seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Radio System:

Factory installed premium sound systems (e.g., Blaupunkt, Becker), cassette player common

Features Available:

Limited by modern standards; focus was on chassis tuning and driver feel. Cruise control available on some models.

Features Available:

None by modern standards (no Bluetooth, USB, etc.)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions

Timing Belt Replacement:

For M40 and M42 engines: typically every 40,000-60,000 miles (60,000-100,000 km). M10/M20 engines use timing chains.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by plug type; ~20,000-30,000 miles for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium

Engine Oil:

API SG or higher; Viscosity typically 10W-40 or 15W-40 for most engines, check manual for specifics based on temperature

Coolant:

BMW Blue or equivalent Ethylene Glycol coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 recommended (check specific model variant)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III ATF (check specific model variant)

Common Faults:

Cracked dashboard (dash sag), seized heater control valves, oil pan gasket leaks, worn suspension bushings, fuel distributor issues (K-Jetronic), idle control valve problems, rust in common areas (wheel arches, rocker panels, battery tray)

Troubleshooting Focus:

The manual would likely provide detailed diagnostic steps for these common E30 issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Performance, driver engagement, superior engineering, sporty driving experience

E30 Introduction:

Introduced in 1982, the E30 was a significant evolution from the E21, offering improved aerodynamics, space, and engineering refinements

Facelift Impact:

The 1988 facelift introduced revised bumpers (often referred to as 'plastic bumpers' or 'iS bumpers'), updated interior trim, and some powertrain enhancements

Production Period:

1982-1994 (with major production overlap for the specified years)

Key Markets:

Europe, North America, Global

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Reputation:

Widely praised for driving dynamics, build quality, and timeless design. Often cited as one of the best driver's cars of its era. Numerous 'best affordable classic' accolades.

Classic Car Indices:

Consistently ranks high in collector car value and desirability indices.

N/A:

Not applicable for this type of product.