Vehicle Segment:
Executive Sedan / Mid-size Luxury Car
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, restoration specialists, and owners seeking detailed maintenance and repair information.
Competitors 1982:
Mercedes-Benz W123, Audi 100, Volvo 240, Saab 900
Bmw Philosophy:
Focus on driving dynamics, build quality, and engineering prowess characteristic of BMW.
E28 Platform Significance:
Introduced a more modern, aerodynamic design compared to its predecessor (E12), featuring improved safety and refinement.
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Manual Transmission (Getrag 4-speed/5-speed), Clutch System, Driveshaft, Rear Differential
Chassis:
Front Suspension (MacPherson Strut), Rear Suspension (Semi-trailing Arms), Steering System, Brakes (Front Discs, Rear Drums/Discs), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Ignition System, Charging System (Alternator), Starting System, Instruments and Gauges, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Sunroof)
Body:
Body Panel Removal/Installation, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Seats, Glass and Seals
Climate Control:
Heater core, blower motor, ventilation system (basic system without A/C detailed in many manuals).
Fuel System Injection:
Detailed schematics and troubleshooting for Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection systems, if equipped.
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups), Fluid Checks and Changes, Belt Adjustments, Spark Plug Replacement, Brake Pad Replacement
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Troubleshooting and Repair, Bodywork Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Charts, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Component Testing Procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds, including component tolerances and assembly sequences.
Searchability:
Text-searchable for quick information retrieval
Printability:
High-resolution scans, suitable for printing individual sections or the entire manual
Binding Recommendation:
Digital access; if printed, comb or spiral binding is recommended for lay-flat use
Recommended Paper:
N/A (Digital)
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive; covers all major mechanical, electrical, and body systems for detailed repair and maintenance.
Content Focus:
Repair and maintenance procedures, specifications, diagnostic information, and torque values.
Engine Code:
M10 (M60/M61 variants for 518)
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Horsepower:
Approximately 90-105 hp (depending on specific market and tune)
Torque:
Approximately 100-115 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Solex Zenith) or Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91-98)
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Timing Drive:
Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC), Single Row Timing Chain
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Manual
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260), 3-Speed Automatic (ZF 3HP22)
Clutch Type:
Single Dry Plate, Hydraulically Actuated
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III ATF (for automatic), GL-4 Gear Oil (for manual)
Length:
Approximately 4725 mm (186.0 in)
Width:
Approximately 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approximately 1420 mm (55.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2770 mm (109.1 in)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approximately 1800-1900 kg
Crash Test Results:
No formal crash test ratings available from modern agencies for this era of vehicle.
Braking System:
Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Drums (standard) or Discs (optional on some models), Hydraulic Brake Booster
Steering System:
Recirculating Ball Power Steering (optional/standard depending on market)
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts, Two-point rear seatbelts
Body Construction:
Unitary construction with reinforced safety cage and crumple zones.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio, optional cassette player, basic speaker system. Aftermarket head unit upgrades are common.
ABS:
ABS was not standard on the 518 and was a rare option, if available at all for this specific trim.
Connectivity Features:
None (basic analog systems, no digital connectivity).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months
Tune Up Interval:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)
Timing Chain Inspection:
Inspect regularly; replacement typically required around 100,000+ miles (160,000+ km) if noise or wear is present.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SF, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check owner's manual for climate specific recommendations)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (ensure consistency)
Engine M10:
Timing chain stretch/wear, oil leaks from seals and gaskets (e.g., oil pan, valve cover), carburetor issues (if applicable), potential head gasket failure due to age.
Suspension:
Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends, rear trailing arm bushings (RTABs).
Electrical:
Corrosion in fuse box, aging wiring harness, failing headlight relays, degradation of fuel pump and sender units.
Rust:
Common rust areas include wheel wells, rocker panels, lower door edges, and around the windshield.
Bmw Legacy:
Founded in 1916, BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) has a long history of producing high-quality, performance-oriented vehicles, initially aircraft engines.
E28 Introduction:
The E28 chassis was introduced in 1981 as the successor to the E12 5 Series, representing a significant modernization.
E28 Production Run:
1981-1988
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing), South Africa, Thailand, Mexico
E28 518 Positioning:
The 518 was the entry-level model of the E28 range, offering BMW engineering and luxury at a more accessible price point.
