Production Years Covered:
1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990
Segment:
Compact Executive Sports Sedan/Coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional service technicians seeking in-depth repair information.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra.
Vehicle Strengths:
Renowned driving dynamics, precise handling, robust inline-six engines, build quality, sporty styling.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides the essential knowledge for maintaining and repairing the iconic E30 chassis, preserving its performance and longevity.
Engine Service:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, repair, timing belt replacement, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel injection, ignition system.
Drivetrain Service:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch replacement, driveshaft and CV joint service, differential maintenance.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, sway bars, power steering system diagnosis and repair, wheel alignment.
Brake System:
Front and rear disc brake service, brake fluid flush and bleed, parking brake adjustment, ABS system troubleshooting (if applicable to specific models).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, battery service, alternator and starter motor repair, lighting systems, power windows, central locking, dashboard indicators.
Body Chassis:
Body panel alignment, door and trunk hinge service, interior trim removal and installation, bumper repair, rust prevention.
HVAC System:
Air conditioning system service and recharge, heater core replacement, blower motor diagnosis, climate control operation.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug service, fluid level checks and top-offs.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic charts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Methods for identifying faults using specialized tools and techniques.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Code:
M20B27 (modified for 325 models)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder SOHC
Displacement:
2.7 Liters (2693 cc)
Horsepower:
168 hp @ 5800 rpm (approximate)
Torque:
225 Nm (166 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium)
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual Getrag 260
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic ZF 4HP22
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch
Final Drive:
Limited Slip Differential (LSD) optional on some models
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data available for this era; known for solid construction.
Braking System:
Front ventilated disc brakes, rear solid disc brakes.
Suspension Stability:
Independent front and rear suspension contributing to stability.
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger safety cell.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette player with optional CD player. Basic speaker systems.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional on some models and became more common in later production years.
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system.
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Analog systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years. Critical preventive maintenance.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (check owner's manual for specific climate recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol based)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 7.0 Liters (7.4 US Quarts)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 GL-4 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF Dexron II (check manual for exact specification)
Engine Common Problems:
Head gasket leaks, oil pan seal leaks, idle control valve issues, starter motor failure, fuel distributor leaks.
Cooling System Common Problems:
Cracked plastic coolant expansion tanks, failing water pumps, thermostat issues, radiator leaks.
Suspension Common Problems:
Worn control arm bushings, failing front strut mounts, worn ball joints.
Electrical Common Problems:
Corroded wiring harnesses, failing alternator regulators, dead instrument cluster pixels.
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, driver-focused engineering.
E30 Introduction:
Introduced in 1982 as a successor to the E21, the E30 defined the modern BMW compact executive car.
325 Variants:
The 325i and 325is represented the higher-performance variants of the E30 line, offering the larger M20 engine.
E30 End Of Production:
E30 production ended in 1991 (sedans) and 1992 (coupes/convertibles).
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany
Automotive Journal Awards:
While specific awards for the 1984-1990 325i/is are scarce, the E30 chassis as a whole was consistently praised by automotive publications for its driving dynamics and build quality throughout its lifespan.
Classic Car Status:
Highly regarded as a modern classic, particularly the 325is and M3 variants, appreciating in value among enthusiasts.
