Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Executive Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional technicians maintaining BMW E28 chassis vehicles.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ Series.
Manual Value:
Comprehensive 'A-Z' coverage for both mechanical and electrical systems, making it an invaluable resource for maintaining and repairing these classic BMWs.
Covered Models:
All BMW 535i and M535i models
Covered Years:
1985, 1986, 1987, 1988
Estimated Page Count:
Likely several hundred pages; specific count not provided but implied by 'A-Z' coverage.
Type:
Workshop Service and Repair Manual
Included Sections:
Likely includes sections on general information, maintenance, engine, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine management, transmission, driveshaft, steering, front axle, rear axle, suspension, brakes, body, electrical system, and troubleshooting.
Language:
English (Presumed, standard for this type of documentation)
Format:
Digital (Printable pages mentioned)
Mechanical:
Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Transmission (Manual/Automatic), Driveshaft, Differential, Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front/Rear), Wheels and Tires.
Electrical:
Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Wiper and Washer System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), Audio System Wiring, Engine Control Unit (ECU) and Sensors, ABS (if equipped).
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, inspections.
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine component overhaul (e.g., cylinder head, pistons), transmission repair, brake system rebuilding, suspension component replacement, steering rack service, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults across all systems, fault codes (if applicable to the era), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Bodywork And Trim:
Covers body panel removal and installation, trim piece replacement, dent repair, and painting procedures. Includes diagrams for body component identification.
Diagnostic Charts:
Likely includes diagnostic flowcharts or tables for troubleshooting electrical and mechanical faults based on symptoms.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners across various systems (engine, drivetrain, suspension, brakes).
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specifications for engine component clearances (e.g., piston-to-cylinder wall, bearing clearances), valve lash, and other critical tolerances for rebuilds.
Digital Format:
Likely a PDF or similar document format that allows for printable pages and digital searching.
Searchable Text:
Assumed to be searchable if in a PDF format with OCR, which greatly enhances usability.
Image Quality:
High-quality with detailed pictures and diagrams, suitable for accurate repair work.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format, but implies printability on standard paper)
Engine Code 535I:
M30B34 (3.4L Inline-6)
Engine Code M535I:
M30B34 (3.4L Inline-6, often with slightly higher output tune)
Horsepower 535I:
Approx. 182-189 hp (depending on market and year)
Torque 535I:
Approx. 224-232 lb-ft (depending on market and year)
Horsepower M535I:
Approx. 211-218 hp (depending on market and year)
Torque M535I:
Approx. 228-236 lb-ft (depending on market and year)
Fuel Injection:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic (various versions)
Transmission Type 535I:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission
Transmission Type Automatic:
ZF 4 HP 22 4-speed automatic transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch
Torque Converter:
Lock-up torque converter for improved efficiency
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF DEXTRON II (or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF DEXTRON II (or equivalent)
Crash Test Results:
No standardized crash test ratings (like NHTSA/Euro NCAP) as commonly known today were available for vehicles of this era.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for front occupants, two-point belts for rear.
Headrests:
Adjustable front and rear headrests.
Crumple Zones:
Designed with front and rear crumple zones for energy absorption.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional premium sound systems available.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control, optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most models.
Trip Computer:
Optional trip computer providing basic fuel consumption and distance data.
Connectivity Features:
None in the modern sense; basic features like power windows, mirrors, and central locking.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles or as needed.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH rated, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (check manual for ambient temperature suitability).
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
Approx. 6.0 liters (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
BMW specified ethylene glycol-based coolant (blue or green).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Problems Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket, cooling system component degradation (hoses, radiator, water pump), timing chain tensioner issues (though less common on M30 than M10/M20).
Common Problems Electrical:
Aging wiring harness, brittle connectors, failure of instrument cluster components, fuel pump relay failures.
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, shock absorber degradation, rear trailing arm bushings.
Preventative Maintenance:
Regularly inspect and replace rubber hoses and belts, clean the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor (if applicable), check and clean the Idle Control Valve (ICV).
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' solidified during this period with a focus on performance, handling, and build quality.
E28 Introduction:
The E28 replaced the E12 and was produced from 1981 to 1988. The 535i and M535i variants were introduced as the performance-oriented models.
M535I Distinction:
The M535i, developed by BMW M GmbH, offered enhanced performance, sportier suspension, and aerodynamic body kits compared to the standard 535i.
Manufacturing Location:
Mainly Dingolfing, Germany.
Production Span E28:
1981-1988
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E28 chassis, including models like the 535i, frequently appeared on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists during its production run, recognized for its engineering and driving dynamics.
Historical Car Reviews:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists of the era for its performance, build quality, and sophisticated handling.
