Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery, emissions control, engine management.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system (ECU, coils, spark plugs), starting and charging system (starter, alternator), fuel injection system (injectors, sensors, ECU), engine sensors and actuators.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch assembly, gearbox (gears, bearings, synchros), shifting mechanism, driveshafts, differential, gearbox oil specifications.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission unit (torque converter, planetary gears, hydraulic control), transmission fluid specifications, shift control system.
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings), rear suspension (semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, bushings), wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (discs, calipers, pads, lines, master cylinder), ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Steering gear, power steering system (pump, reservoir, lines), steering linkage, steering wheel, column.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), instrumentation, power windows, locks, mirrors, wiper system, horn, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, emission control systems (e.g., EGR, catalytic converter).
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipes, hangers.
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals, interior trim, structural components, rust prevention.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, controls, refrigerant).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, belt inspections and tensioning.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine management systems, electrical system diagnostics.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for all major vehicle systems.
Replacement Procedures:
Component replacement, including parts identification and installation guidance.
Adjustment Procedures:
Adjustments for engine timing, idle speed, brake systems, clutch linkage, etc.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including component locations and wire colors.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers from basic maintenance to major overhauls and advanced diagnostics, intended for professional technicians.
Oil And Filter Change:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific mileage/time recommendations based on driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles, or as per manual's severe service schedule.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 miles, using high-quality spark plugs (e.g., Bosch W8AC or equivalent).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II (or equivalent)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Fuel Injector Leaks:
O-rings on fuel injectors can degrade, leading to leaks or poor fuel atomization.
Wiring Harness Degradation:
Older wiring can become brittle and crack, leading to electrical gremlins. The engine wiring harness is a common point of concern.
Cooling System Failures:
Plastic components in the cooling system (e.g., expansion tank, thermostat housing) can become brittle and crack. Water pump and radiator can also fail with age.
Subframe Mounts:
Rear subframe mounting points can rust or crack, affecting alignment and ride quality.
Brake Component Wear:
Typical wear items like pads, rotors, and hoses need regular inspection and replacement.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's reputation for engineering excellence, sporty driving dynamics ('The Ultimate Driving Machine'), and refined luxury.
E28 Introduction:
The E28 was the second generation of the 5 Series, introduced in 1981 as a successor to the E12. It represented an evolution in styling, performance, and technology.
E28 Lifespan:
Produced from 1981 to 1988, with significant updates and engine variations throughout its lifecycle.
535I Positioning:
The 535i model represented the higher-performance variant of the E28 lineup, offering a more powerful engine and enhanced driving experience compared to the 528e or 524td.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also produced in other BMW plants globally.
Notable Variants:
M535i (performance variant with sportier suspension and styling), Alpina variants (highly tuned versions by Alpina).