Segment:
Compact executive sports sedan, renowned for its driving dynamics and build quality.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W201 (190E), Audi 4000, Alfa Romeo Giulietta, Ford Sierra.
Driving Experience:
Praised for its balanced chassis, responsive steering, and engaging powertrain, defining the modern BMW driving experience.
Engineering Philosophy:
Emphasizes driver involvement, performance, and a premium feel, reflecting BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional automotive technicians working on the 1984 BMW 3 Series E30.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, rebuild procedures, component testing, diagnosis
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), starting & charging, sensors, wiring diagrams
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shifting mechanisms, driveshafts
Transmission Automatic:
Hydraulic control, valve body, torque converter, cooling
Suspension:
Front strut assemblies, rear semi-trailing arms, bushings, springs, shock absorbers, alignment
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, calipers, master cylinder, ABS (if equipped), brake lines, bleeding procedures
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel lines
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan system
Exhaust System:
Manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, structural components, door mechanisms, glass replacement
Electrical System:
Lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, central locking, dashboard instruments, fuse/relay locations
Climate Control:
HVAC system components, refrigerant handling, blower motor, controls
Interior Trim:
Seat removal, dashboard trim, interior paneling
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common problems and solutions, fault finding
Specifications Data:
Torque values, clearances, fluid types and capacities, electrical resistance values
Type:
Full Service & Repair Manual
Format:
Print (likely compiled from original factory documentation)
All Major Systems:
Comprehensive coverage of all mechanical, electrical, and body systems specific to the 1984 BMW 3 Series E30 platform.
Maintenance And Repair:
Routine maintenance schedules, fluid changes, filter replacements, component diagnosis, removal, installation, and overhaul for all vehicle systems.
Troubleshooting And Diagnostics:
Detailed troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, common fault identification, and corrective action procedures.
Rebuilding And Restoration:
In-depth procedures for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension restoration, and bodywork refurbishment.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagrams with clear component identification, diagnostic flowcharts for electrical faults, and component testing procedures.
Depth:
Expert level, covering from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including specialized tools and techniques.
Engine Code:
M10 (4-cylinder) and M20 (6-cylinder)
Engine Variants:
318i (M10), 325e (M20 'Eta'), 325i (M20)
318I Hp:
105 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)
318I Torque:
107 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (approx.)
325E Hp:
121 hp @ 4800 rpm (approx.)
325E Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (approx.)
325I Hp:
168 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)
325I Torque:
164 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Injection Type:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating specified in manual)
Displacement:
1.8L (M10), 2.7L (M20 'Eta'), 2.5L (M20)
Bore X Stroke:
Varies by engine variant (e.g., M10: 89.0 mm x 71.0 mm; M20B27: 84.0 mm x 78.9 mm; M20B25: 84.0 mm x 73.8 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Varies by engine variant (e.g., M10: 8.4:1; M20B27: 8.3:1; M20B25: 8.8:1)
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data from this era, but generally considered safe for its time with a robust chassis.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option, particularly on higher-spec models like the 325i.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts in the front; lap belts in the rear.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones, and side-impact protection beams.
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column for improved occupant protection.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, as per manual recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type, but often around 30,000 miles.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for M20 engines (non-interference, but replacement is vital for longevity). Interval typically 40,000-60,000 miles or 4-5 years. M10 uses a timing chain.
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, viscosity 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific grade and capacity).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW's own coolant is recommended if available.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent (check manual for exact specification).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Cooling System Leaks:
Common issues include coolant hoses cracking, radiator leaks, and water pump failure.
Fuel Injector Seals:
Leaking fuel injector seals can cause rough idling or fuel smell.
Dashboard Pixels:
LCD display on instrument cluster can fail (common on many BMWs of this era).
Rear Shock Mounts:
Reinforcing the rear shock towers is often recommended due to stress.
Oem Part Availability:
Some original BMW parts may be scarce, requiring aftermarket or used sourcing. Manual is essential for identifying correct part numbers.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for performance, engineering, and luxury driving is deeply rooted in models like the 3 Series.
E30 Introduction:
The E30 generation was introduced in 1982 as the successor to the E21. The 1984 model year marks early production of this highly successful platform.
Body Styles:
Available as a 2-door sedan (coupe) and 4-door sedan. Convertible and Touring (wagon) variants were introduced later in the E30 lifecycle.
Performance Variants:
The E30 platform also spawned iconic performance variants like the M3 (E30), which significantly boosted the model's reputation.
Production Years:
1982-1991
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany, with some assembly in other locations.