Market Position:
The BMW 518i (E28) was positioned as the entry-level sedan in BMW's executive '5 Series' line-up for 1986, offering a balance of performance, luxury, and efficiency.
Competitors:
Competed with other premium sedans of the era, such as the Mercedes-Benz W123/W124 E-Class, Audi 100, and Jaguar XJ6.
Key Features:
Rear-wheel drive, independent suspension, refined engine, focus on driver engagement and build quality.
Value Proposition:
Essential resource for owners and independent mechanics to maintain, diagnose, and repair the BMW 518i E28, preserving its performance and longevity.
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive service and repair for BMW 518i (E28) 1986 model year.
Page Count:
Estimated 500-700 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era, exact number not provided in product description).
Manual Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Likely Print or Digital (PDF) - original product description does not specify, but common for sales.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (EFI), ignition system, emission control.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmission service, repair, and overhaul.
Drivetrain:
Clutch, driveshaft, differential, rear axle assembly.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, geometry, adjustments.
Steering:
Steering gear, power steering system.
Brakes:
Brake system (front discs, rear drums/discs depending on spec), hydraulic system, parking brake.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, starting and charging system, accessories, instrument cluster, control units.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass, locks, hinges.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common malfunctions, fault finding charts.
Repair:
Component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation procedures.
Diagnostics:
Engine diagnostics, electrical system diagnostics, brake system diagnostics.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values.
Engine Rebuild:
Covers complete engine teardown, inspection, machining specifications, and reassembly.
Electrical Schematics:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems are a critical component of such manuals.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major overhauls and component rebuilds.
Diagnostic Tools:
Manual likely details use of basic hand tools, multimeters, and potentially specific BMW diagnostic equipment if applicable for the EFI system.
File Format:
PDF (if digital) or Printed.
Searchability:
PDF format typically offers full text search capabilities, enhancing diagnostic efficiency.
Print Quality:
High-quality, clear diagrams and text (typical for professional service manuals).
Binding Type:
Spiral-bound or perfect bound (for printed versions) for lay-flat use in a workshop.
Paper Type:
Durable, often glossy or semi-gloss paper to withstand workshop conditions.
Engine Code:
M10B18 (or similar iteration)
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Horsepower:
Approximately 105-115 PS (metric horsepower) or 102-113 bhp (SAE net), depending on market and specific tune.
Torque:
Approximately 150-160 Nm (111-118 lb-ft) at around 3000-3500 RPM.
Fuel Injection:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI).
Ignition Type:
Distributor-based electronic ignition with knock sensing (depending on exact version).
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled with engine-driven fan and thermostat.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.25 Liters (4.5 US Quarts) with filter change.
Emission Features:
Catalytic converter (in many markets), exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system.
Transmission Type:
4-speed manual transmission.
Transmission Type:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (ZF or Getrag).
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 GL-4 gear oil (check manual for exact spec).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II (or equivalent) ATF.
Length:
Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1350-1450 kg (2976-3197 lbs) depending on transmission and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 1800-1850 kg (3968-4079 lbs).
Safety Ratings:
No formal crash test ratings available from modern agencies for this era of vehicle, but BMW had a reputation for robust build quality.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - optional on many models, power-assisted steering, disc brakes front and rear (depending on variant).
Passive Safety:
Crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell, padded interior surfaces, three-point seat belts.
Infotainment System:
Basic analog radio, cassette player, and often manual climate controls. Optional features might include power windows and mirrors.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards; ABS was an optional safety feature. Focus was on mechanical systems and driver feedback.
Connectivity Options:
No integrated connectivity like Bluetooth or USB; external phone kits might have been retrofitted.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact schedule).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km).
Timing Belt Chain:
M10 engine uses a timing chain, which is generally durable but requires inspection for wear and tension.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 API SF/SG rated oil (check manual for exact specification and viscosity recommendations based on climate).
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Fuel injectors (EFI), ignition components (coil, distributor), fuel pumps, suspension bushings, exhaust system, cooling system components (radiator, hoses, water pump).
Engine Performance Issues:
Poor starting, rough idle, misfires often related to fuel delivery or ignition system degradation.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corrosion in electrical connectors, aging wiring harnesses, and failing relays can cause intermittent issues.
Brand Heritage:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is a German luxury and performance automobile manufacturer with a long history of engineering excellence and sporting heritage.
Model Evolution E28:
The E28 generation (1981-1988) was the second generation of the 5 Series and a significant evolution from the E12, featuring improved aerodynamics, updated styling, and advanced technologies for its time.
Production Period:
The E28 generation was produced from 1981 to 1988. The 518i was a variant offered in specific markets, particularly Europe.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany.
