🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Variant:

316, 316i

Chassis Code Series:

E30

Engine Code 316:

M10B18 (carbureted)

Engine Code 316I:

M10B18 (fuel injected)

👋 Introduction

Historical Segment:

Compact executive/sport sedan, a foundational model for BMW's entry into accessible luxury performance.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz 190E (W201), Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra, Opel Rekord/Vauxhall Cavalier

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for BMW's signature rear-wheel-drive handling, balanced chassis, and driver-focused ergonomics.

Build Quality:

Typical BMW build quality of the era, emphasizing robust engineering and durable materials.

Engine Performance:

The M10 engine, while not the most powerful in the E30 lineup, offered a reliable and torquey driving experience for its displacement.

Design:

Iconic E30 design by Claus Luthe, characterized by clean lines, functional aesthetics, and a timeless appeal.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Years:

1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988

Covered Models:

BMW 316, BMW 316i

Body Styles Covered:

Likely Sedan (E30), Coupe (E30), Convertible (E30) - Specific confirmation dependent on manual content

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by publisher, typically 300-500 pages for comprehensive manuals

Type:

Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English (Standard for most repair manuals, but confirmation recommended)

Format:

Likely Digital (PDF) or Printed Book

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Engine:

Engine mechanical (M10B18), cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing, lubrication system, cooling system

Powertrain Fuel System:

Fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic for 316i), carburetor (for 316), fuel pump, lines, tank, injectors

Powertrain Ignition:

Ignition system, distributor, coil, spark plugs, timing adjustments

Powertrain Exhaust:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable), mufflers, pipes

Transmission Manual:

Manual gearbox (Getrag 240/245 likely), clutch, gear shift linkage, repairs, adjustments

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic gearbox (ZF 3HP22 likely), torque converter, valve body, adjustments (if optioned)

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, axles, wheel bearings

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (semi-trailing arms), springs, shock absorbers, bushings, sway bars

Steering:

Steering rack, tie rods, steering column, power steering system (if equipped)

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes (model dependent), brake calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, sensors

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, glass, body repairs, rust prevention

Climate Control:

HVAC system, heater core, blower motor, ventilation, air conditioning (if equipped)

Routine Maintenance:

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

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Symptom-based troubleshooting, error code interpretation (for fuel injection/ignition), electrical system fault finding

Major Repairs:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system overhaul, fuel system service

Component Removal Installation:

Step-by-step guides for removing and reinstalling all major components

Adjustments:

Valve adjustment, ignition timing, clutch adjustment, idle speed, fuel mixture (carbureted models)

Special Tools:

Identification of specific tools required for certain procedures

Depth Level:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format) - typically searchable and printable

Quality:

Varies by publisher. Professional manuals usually feature clear diagrams, schematics, and crisp text. Low-quality scans or photocopies are common with unofficial reproductions.

Printed Binding:

Typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound for ease of use and durability in a workshop environment.

Printed Paper:

Durable, often glossy or semi-gloss paper to withstand workshop conditions and highlight illustrations.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type 316:

Naturally aspirated inline-4 cylinder

Engine Type 316I:

Naturally aspirated inline-4 cylinder

Displacement M10B18:

1766 cc (1.8 Liters)

Horsepower 316 Carb:

Approx. 90-102 hp (depending on specific market and tuning)

Horsepower 316I Efi:

Approx. 105-115 hp (depending on specific market and tuning)

Torque 316 Carb:

Approx. 140-155 Nm (103-114 lb-ft)

Torque 316I Efi:

Approx. 155-165 Nm (114-122 lb-ft)

Fuel Delivery 316:

Single or twin downdraft carburetor (e.g., Solex, Pierburg)

Fuel Delivery 316I:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (91-98 RON recommended)

Ignition System 316I:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or conventional distributor with electronic control on later Motronic systems.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed or 5-speed manual (Getrag 240 or 245)

Optional Transmission:

3-speed or 4-speed automatic (ZF 3HP22 or 4HP22)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate with hydraulic activation

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary by gearbox, detailed in manual.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4360 mm (Sedan)

Width:

Approx. 1675 mm

Height:

Approx. 1380 mm (Sedan)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2570 mm

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1150-1250 kg (depending on body style and transmission)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Varies by specific model and payload rating

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

No formal ratings like NHTSA or Euro NCAP existed in the modern sense for this era. Design focused on passive safety features common to the time.

Braking System:

Front ventilated discs, rear drums (standard), optional rear discs on some models. ABS was a rare option, more common on higher trims/later years.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seatbelts, two-point rear seatbelts (later models may have three-point rear).

Body Structure:

Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones front and rear.

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column designed to absorb impact energy.

💡 Technology Features

Radio System:

Factory fitted cassette radio with AM/FM. Aftermarket upgrades are common.

Speakers:

Typically 2 or 4 speakers depending on trim level.

ABS:

Optional and not standard on all models, especially early production years.

Cruise Control:

Optional feature on some models.

Connectivity Features:

None by modern standards; relies on analog systems. Aftermarket Bluetooth adapters may be available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first. Check manual for exact BMW recommendation.

Air Filter Replacement:

Check every 10,000-15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 20,000-30,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended every 20,000-30,000 miles for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Check per manual. Automatic: Typically every 30,000-50,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended. Consult manual for exact BMW specifications (e.g., BMW Special Oil).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or specific BMW hydraulic fluid.

Rust Susceptibility:

Common rust areas include wheel arches, rocker panels, battery tray, and trunk floor.

Cooling System:

Plastic expansion tank can become brittle and crack. Water pump seals and thermostat housing are also potential leak points.

Fuel System 316I:

Fuel pump relay failures, injector clogging, and idle control valve issues can cause running problems.

Suspension Bushings:

Worn control arm bushings and rear trailing arm bushings are common and affect handling.

Electrical Gremlins:

Old wiring harnesses, corroded connectors, and failing grounds can lead to intermittent electrical issues.

Clutch Wear:

Wear on the clutch disc, pressure plate, and release bearing is a common wear item.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal are common sources of oil leaks on the M10 engine.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for building driver-focused vehicles with excellent engineering and performance legacy.

E30 Introduction:

The E30 generation was introduced in 1982 as the successor to the E21. The 316 and 316i were entry-level models within this popular series.

E30 Facelift:

The E30 underwent a significant facelift (often referred to as 'late' models) around 1987/1988, with updated bumpers, trim, and sometimes revised suspension/engines. This manual covers the pre-facelift and potentially early facelift models.

Production Period:

E30 production ran from 1982 to 1991. The 316/316i variants covered by this manual were primarily produced from 1983-1988.

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (primarily Munich and Dingolfing)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

While specific awards for the 316/316i are rare, the E30 generation as a whole received critical acclaim for its driving dynamics and build quality, frequently appearing on 'best driver's car' lists of its era.

Consumer Reports Era:

Consumer Reports and similar publications of the time praised BMW's engineering, though often noted higher purchase and maintenance costs compared to mainstream brands.