Target Audience:
Owners seeking in-depth repair and maintenance knowledge, independent mechanics, restoration enthusiasts
Competitors 1981:
Mercedes-Benz W123, Audi 100, Volvo 240
Bmw Philosophy:
Emphasis on driving dynamics, build quality, and performance engineering
E28 Platform:
Introduction of the E28 platform, a significant evolution of BMW's mid-size luxury sedan with improved aerodynamics and chassis dynamics.
Engine Service:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, component replacement
Transmission Service:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, fluid changes, clutch replacement
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting starting and charging systems, lighting, instrumentation
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (Bosch L-Jetronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter replacement
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, steering rack, tie rods
Brake System:
Disc brake overhaul, caliper servicing, master cylinder replacement, brake bleeding procedures
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, rust prevention, door mechanisms, interior trim removal and installation
Heating And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system operation, component testing, refrigerant handling (where applicable)
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, fault code interpretation (where applicable)
Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel delivery, ignition, exhaust, transmission, driveline
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front and rear discs), wheels, tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wipers, horn, instrumentation, fuel injection control, engine management
Body:
Exterior panels, doors, windows, locks, seals, interior trim, seats, dashboard
Preventive Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and adjustment
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul (pistons, rings, bearings, valves), cylinder head service, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper overhaul, suspension component replacement
Adjustment:
Valve clearance adjustment, ignition timing adjustment, idle speed adjustment
Component Replacement:
Alternator, starter motor, fuel pump, water pump, radiator, clutch assembly, shock absorbers, brake pads/rotors
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical system diagnostics.
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.0 mm x 80.0 mm
Horsepower Net:
90 PS (89 bhp / 66 kW) at 5500 rpm
Torque Net:
140 Nm (103 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm
Fuel Injection Type:
Bosch L-Jetronic (Lambda Control)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane Rating 91 or higher recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based)
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled
Oil Capacity With Filter:
4.5 Liters (4.8 US qt)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (depending on climate)
Type:
3-speed ZF Automatic (e.g., ZF 3HP22)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 75W-90 Synthetic (or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II (or equivalent)
Crash Test Era:
Era-specific safety standards; frontal impact performance was typical for its time.
Brakes:
Front: Ventilated Disc, Rear: Disc
Parking Brake:
Mechanical, acting on rear wheels
Seatbelts:
Front: 3-point inertia reel seatbelts
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column for improved occupant protection
Headrests:
Integrated front headrests
Radio:
Typically an AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with analog tuning.
Speakers:
Door-mounted or dashboard speakers, often 4 or 6.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on some E28 models, but not standard on the 518i.
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control available on some models.
Original Connectivity:
N/A (Pre-digital era)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000 km (24,000 miles)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24 months
Coolant Flush:
Every 24-36 months
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., BMW P/N 82 14 9 401 697 or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Fuel System Issues:
Clogged fuel injectors, failing fuel pump, faulty airflow meter in L-Jetronic system.
Cooling System Issues:
Radiator leaks, thermostat failure, heater core leaks, water pump leaks.
Electrical Issues:
Corroded wiring harnesses, failing alternator or starter, intermittent electrical components due to age.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, sills, rear spring support towers.
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers leading to imprecise handling and noise.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, performance, and luxury.
E12 To E28 Transition:
The E28 succeeded the E12 5 Series, representing a refinement of its predecessor with updated styling, improved aerodynamics, and enhanced technology.
Production Period:
1981-1987
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany, South Africa, Mexico
E28 Significance:
The E28 platform was a critical model for BMW, solidifying its position in the executive sedan market and paving the way for future 5 Series generations.