Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements.
Repair:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission, drivetrain, brakes, steering, suspension, electrical system, bodywork, HVAC.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures for various systems.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid types and capacities, electrical diagrams, component dimensions.
Estimated Pages:
Over 1500 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)
Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, timing components, lubrication system, oil pump, oil cooler.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel filter, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, fuel lines.
Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, distributor, ignition control module (ICM), troubleshooting ignition faults.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, coolant hoses, coolant reservoir, temperature sensor.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, exhaust pipes, oxygen sensors.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch assembly, gearbox overhaul, shift linkage, gears, bearings, seals.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP22), valve body, torque converter, transmission control module, fluid cooler.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, axle shafts, CV joints.
Brakes:
Brake discs, brake pads, calipers, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake.
Steering:
Steering rack, power steering pump, steering column, tie rods, steering knuckle.
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms, sway bar), rear suspension (semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs), wheel bearings.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring harnesses, fuses, relays, lighting system, gauges, instrument cluster.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, trim.
HVAC:
Heating system, ventilation, air conditioning (compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant lines).
Engine Overhaul:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, including cylinder head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement.
Transmission Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for rebuilding both manual and automatic transmissions.
Brake System Service:
Brake pad and disc replacement, caliper service, bleeding the brake system, ABS component replacement.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Replacement of ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, strut replacement, power steering system repairs.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagram interpretation, diagnosis of electrical faults, component testing.
Fuel Injection Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Motronic system faults, testing fuel injectors and sensors.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Correct procedure for replacing the timing belt and tensioners on M20 engines.
Engine Mounts Replacement:
Procedure for replacing engine and transmission mounts.
Radiator And Coolant Service:
Coolant flush and fill, radiator replacement, thermostat replacement.
Body Panel Alignment:
Instructions for adjusting doors, hood, and trunk for proper alignment.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts and specifications for accurate repairs.
Service Intervals General
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for specific year/model.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on plug type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial! Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical due to interference engine design).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 (check manual for specific climate/year recommendations, often synthetic recommended)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (BMW recommends blue/green coolant or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (DOT 4 preferred for better performance)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II/III or specific BMW hydraulic fluid (consult manual).
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter housing, and rear main seal.
Cooling System:
Radiator leaks, thermostat housing cracks, heater core leaks, water pump failure.
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, worn ball joints, sagging springs, leaking shock absorbers.
Rear Wheel Arches:
Prone to rust due to design and road salt exposure.
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Can be a wear item, especially on higher mileage vehicles.
Idle Control Valve Icv:
Can become dirty or fail, leading to rough idle or stalling.