Market Segment:
Mid-size luxury/executive sedan.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W123/W124 E-Class, Audi 100, Volvo 240/740, Jaguar XJ (XJ40), Cadillac Sedan de Ville (in some markets).
Vehicle Strengths:
Renowned BMW driving dynamics, robust engineering, refined interior, high-quality materials, durable powertrain.
Manual Benefit:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics with the official factory-level information needed for accurate diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of the E28 518i.
Covered Years:
1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991
Estimated Pages:
Approx. 300-500 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Type:
Full Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF), potentially Printable
Mechanical Systems:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Transmission, Drivetrain, Steering, Suspension, Brakes, Wheels & Tires
Electrical Systems:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Wipers & Washers, Horn, Radio/Audio System, Fuses & Relays, Wiring Diagrams
Body And Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, HVAC System
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil Change, Filter Replacements (Oil, Air, Fuel), Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flush, Brake Fluid Flush, Belt Inspection/Replacement, Routine Inspections
Repair Procedures:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake Caliper/Disc Service, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Rack Repair, Fuel Injector Servicing, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Common Fault Identification
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format), likely searchable and printable.
Quality Expectation:
High Resolution scans of original factory manuals, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.
Binding For Print:
If printed: Coil-bound or perfect-bound for lay-flat use in a workshop environment.
Paper Quality For Print:
If printed: Durable, possibly laminated pages for workshop resistance.
Engine Code:
M10B18 (early models), M40B18 (later models)
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 90-102 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm (depending on specific market and engine variant)
Torque:
Approx. 104-114 lb-ft @ 3200-3500 rpm (depending on specific market and engine variant)
Injection Type:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic Fuel Injection (depending on year and market)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91-95 recommended)
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Timing Drive:
Chain (M10), Belt (M40)
Transmission Type Std:
4-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Opt:
3-Speed ZF Automatic (common)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil (refer to manual for exact BMW spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF fluid (refer to manual for exact BMW spec)
Length:
Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2770 mm (109.1 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs), varies with equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 1800 kg (3968 lbs)
Crash Safety Era:
Designed to pre-date modern comprehensive crash testing standards, but featured robust crumple zones and safety cage construction for its time.
Braking System:
Front Ventilated Disc Brakes, Rear Solid Disc Brakes. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on later models.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts at front and rear seating positions.
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column for improved driver protection in frontal impacts.
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/cassette player (e.g., Blaupunkt, Grundig) with optional amplifier. Speaker configurations varied.
ABS:
Optional on many models, providing enhanced braking control.
Connectivity Era:
Minimal by modern standards. No onboard computers or integrated infotainment systems beyond the basic audio.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-40,000 km (12,000-25,000 miles), depending on plug type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For M40 engines: Every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles) or 3-4 years. For M10 (chain): Generally lifetime, but check for tensioner wear.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG/SH, ACEA A2/A3, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact BMW approval, e.g., BMW Longlife-98 for later specs if applicable, though unlikely for 518i).
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW P/N 82 14 1 467 703 (G48 type for later BMWs, but a standard green silicate-based or later phosphate-based coolant acceptable).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0-4.5 Liters (4.2-4.8 US Quarts) with filter change.
Common Wear Items:
Rubber suspension bushings (control arms, sway bars), fuel pump, idle control valve, thermostat, water pump, various vacuum hoses, door seals, dashboard plastic degradation (sun exposure).
Electrical Quirks:
Failing instrument cluster illumination, corrosion in electrical connectors, aged wiring insulation.
Rust Prone Areas:
Fender arches, rocker panels, rear wheel wells, battery tray area, trunk floor.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, high-performance, and reliable automobiles.
E28 Introduction:
The E28 generation succeeded the E12 5 Series and was produced from 1981 to 1988 (though some markets received it until 1991). It was a significant evolution, offering improved aerodynamics, safety, and comfort.
Production Period:
1981-1991 (specific to E28 chassis, with 518i variants primarily in the earlier part of this span).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also assembled in South Africa and other CKD plants.
