🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

518

Model Code:

E28

Production Years Covered:

1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985

Chassis Code:

E28

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Sedan

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional workshops maintaining the BMW E28 platform.

Key Competitors Era:

Mercedes-Benz W123/W124, Audi 100, Jaguar XJ

Vehicle Appeal:

Blend of luxury, performance, and BMW's renowned driving dynamics.

Manual Benefit:

Cost-effective solution for maintaining and repairing a classic BMW.

📋 Manual Details

Main Topics:

Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Transmission, Driveshaft, Differential, Steering, Suspension, Brakes, Electrical System, Bodywork, Interior, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning

Estimated Pages:

300-500

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul procedures, cylinder head, block assembly, pistons, rings, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, lubrication system.

Fuel System:

Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system diagnostics, components, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant flow, fan operation, capacities.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable), muffler, pipe routing, emissions control.

Clutch And Transmission:

Manual transmission (4-speed and 5-speed Getrag 265) overhaul, clutch replacement, fluid specifications, driveshaft, universal joints.

Rear Axle And Drivetrain:

Differential overhaul, fluid types, axle shafts, wheel bearings.

Suspension Front:

MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, shock absorber replacement.

Suspension Rear:

Semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, rear axle alignment.

Steering System:

Power steering pump, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment specifications.

Brake System:

Disc brakes (front and rear), brake calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, brake fluid type, bleeding procedures, parking brake.

Electrical System Overview:

Wiring diagrams for all systems, fuse box layout, relay functions, battery, alternator, starter motor.

Lighting System:

Headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lighting, bulb types and replacement.

Instrumentation And Gauges:

Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights, cluster removal and repair.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, rust repair considerations, underbody coatings.

Interior Trim And Upholstery:

Seat removal, door panel disassembly, dashboard components, headliner replacement.

Heating Ventilation And Ac HVAC:

HVAC system operation, blower motor, heater core, evaporator core, refrigerant charging (R12).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common electrical and mechanical issues, symptom-based problem solving.

Engine Repair And Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement, piston ring gap, bearing clearance, valve adjustment.

Transmission Overhaul:

Disassembly, inspection, part replacement, reassembly of manual transmissions.

Brake System Overhaul:

Caliber rebuilding, rotor replacement, brake line flaring and installation.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring harness repair, sensor testing, ECU diagnostics (if applicable), starter and alternator testing.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Replacement of ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, steering rack seal replacement.

Body Panel Replacement:

Procedures for removing and fitting fenders, doors, hood, trunk lid.

Body And Paint Repairs:

Guidelines for minor dent repair, panel alignment, and potentially some refinishing considerations.

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds).

Diagnostics Level:

Advanced diagnostic procedures for fuel injection and ignition systems.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of BMW specific tools required for certain repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for hands-on use in the workshop.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams.

Physical Manual Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Physical Manual Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-Cylinder, SOHC

Engine Code:

M10 Series (specifically variations like M10B18)

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1766 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

Approx. 89.0 mm x 71.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

Approx. 8.3:1 to 9.0:1 (depending on specific variant)

Horsepower Est:

Approx. 90-100 hp @ 5500-5800 rpm

Torque Est:

Approx. 130-135 Nm (96-100 lb-ft) @ 3000-3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91 or higher recommended)

Cooling Type:

Water Cooled

Oil Capacity W Filter:

Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts)

Ignition Type:

Electronic Ignition (Distributor and Coil)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Manual

Type:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag 265)

Automatic Availability:

Automatic transmission (ZF 3HP22) was optional on other E28 models, but less common or unavailable for 518 in some markets. Manual was standard.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic, Dry Single Plate

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil (check manual for specific BMW spec)

Manual Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 1.5 Liters (1.6 US Quarts)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 in)

Width:

Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2795 mm (110.0 in)

Curb Weight Est:

Approx. 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Est:

Approx. 1800-1900 kg (3968-4189 lbs)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Standard Tire Size:

175/70R14 or 185/70R14 (depending on market and options)

Standard Wheel Size:

14 x 6.0 J

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data Era:

Limited standardized crash test data available for this era and specific model compared to modern standards. E28 platform generally considered robust for its time.

Braking System:

Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs. ABS was an optional feature on later E28 models, but may not be standard on 518.

Seatbelts:

Front 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts. Rear lap belts standard, 3-point optional.

Construction:

Unitized body construction with integrated crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Radio System:

Optional AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with 4-6 speakers. Analog tuning.

ABS:

Optional on higher-spec E28 models, likely not standard on the 518. Manual would detail testing and repair if equipped.

Features Era:

Basic connectivity focused on the vehicle's internal systems. No external data connectivity by modern standards.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 15,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first (recommend verifying with manual).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 40,000 miles (48,000 - 64,000 km) for standard plugs.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SF, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 (depending on climate). Check manual for BMW specific approval or viscosity recommendations.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

ATF Dexron II or BMW approved power steering fluid.

Common Problems:

Cooling system component degradation (hoses, radiator, water pump), fuel injection sensor issues (air flow meter), aging electrical connectors and wiring harnesses, rust on body panels (wheel arches, sills), worn suspension bushings, clutch slave cylinder leaks.

Oil Filter Example:

Mann-Filter W940/1, Mahle OC 70, Bosch 0 451 103 074 (verify fitment)

Air Filter Example:

Mann-Filter C2440, Mahle LX 50, Bosch 1 457 429 800 (verify fitment)

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Sport sedan, performance, engineering excellence, driver-focused.

E28 Generation:

Second generation of the BMW 5 Series, succeeding the E12 and preceding the E34. Known for its sharper styling and improved engineering.

518 Positioning:

Entry-level model in the E28 range, prioritizing fuel efficiency and accessible pricing while retaining BMW build quality.

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing plant), South Africa, Mexico (CKD assembly).

Total E28 Production:

Over 722,000 units produced globally across all variants between 1981 and 1988.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Perception:

The E28 generation as a whole was highly regarded for its build quality, driving dynamics, and durability, earning it a strong reputation among automotive journalists and enthusiasts.