Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Sport Sedan
Competitive Landscape:
Competed with models like Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ, and Cadillac Seville.
Performance Focus:
Known for its powerful inline-six engine, engaging handling, and refined driving dynamics, embodying BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos.
Build Quality:
Renowned for exceptional build quality, durability, and advanced engineering for its era.
Professional Reference:
An essential resource for maintaining and repairing the BMW 535i E28, providing detailed instructions trusted by professional mechanics.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (M30B34), fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, manual transmission (Getrag 265), automatic transmission (optional ZF 4HP22 EH), driveshaft, differential, axles.
Chassis Systems:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (Semi-trailing arm), steering system (power assisted), braking system (front vented discs, rear discs), wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, central locking, heated mirrors, sunroof operation, battery, alternator, starter motor, fuse box layout and identification.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seating systems, climate control system (HVAC), body repairs, corrosion protection.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid replacement, belt inspection and replacement, lubrication points.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild, head gasket replacement, fuel injector service, transmission overhaul, brake caliper overhaul, suspension component replacement, starter/alternator replacement, electrical component repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for engine performance issues, electrical faults, transmission problems, braking system anomalies, and starting difficulties.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, detailed repair procedures, component specifications, diagnostic information, and troubleshooting guidance suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
File Type:
If digital, typically PDF. If physical, printed paper.
Paper Quality:
If printed, high-quality, durable paper stock typical of workshop manuals, often with laminated sections for diagrams.
Binding:
If printed, typically a robust hardcover or spiral-bound format for durability and ease of use in a workshop environment.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)
Engine Displacement:
3.4 liters (3430 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 or 8.5:1 (depending on market/spec)
Horsepower:
182 hp @ 5500 rpm (US Spec)
Torque:
224 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (US Spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch LE-Jetronic Fuel Injection (later models may have L-Jetronic)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, premium octane (91+ RON/AKI)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 10.5 liters (2.75 gallons)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 265)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22 EH)
Manual Gear Ratios:
Typical ratios: 1st: 3.72, 2nd: 2.40, 3rd: 1.59, 4th: 1.19, 5th: 1.00, Reverse: 3.07
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic control (EH) for smoother shifts and improved efficiency.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF Dexron II or equivalent (API GL-4 specification often recommended for earlier manual gearboxes)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or Dexron III ATF
Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 1.5 liters (1.6 US quarts)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 3.5 liters (3.7 US quarts) for a fluid change, higher for a complete overhaul.
Crash Safety Era Standards:
Designed to meet or exceed 1980s automotive safety standards. Lacked modern electronic safety aids.
Braking System:
4-wheel disc brakes (front: vented discs, rear: solid discs); ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was optional on later models, potentially available on some 1986 535i.
Suspension Handling:
Sport-tuned suspension provided excellent road holding and stability, contributing to active safety.
Occupant Protection:
Reinforced passenger cell, safety steering column, padded interior surfaces, three-point seatbelts (front and rear).
Optional Features:
Seatbelt pretensioners may have been available on some models.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, often with premium speaker options (e.g., Hi-Fi system).
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control) with A/C.
ABS Availability:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on many 1986 models.
Connectivity Features:
None by modern standards. Primarily focused on mechanical and electrical systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Recommended every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (50,000 - 80,000 km). Automatic: Every 30,000 miles (50,000 km) or as per manual recommendations.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (50,000 km).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (depending on climate). Consult manual for exact viscosity based on ambient temperature.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Coolant or a silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, low viscosity.
Engine Common Problems:
Head gasket leaks, timing chain tensioner wear (especially on higher mileage M30 engines), fuel distributor issues, oil leaks from seals and gaskets.
Suspension Common Problems:
Worn control arm bushings, shock absorber fatigue, trailing arm bushing failure, sway bar links.
Electrical Common Problems:
Fuse box corrosion, voltage regulator issues, wiring harness degradation, headlight switch failure, instrument cluster problems.
Fuel System Common Problems:
Clogged fuel injectors, failing fuel pump, worn fuel lines, cold start injector issues.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's reputation for engineering excellence, sporty driving characteristics, and premium quality.
E28 Generation:
The E28 was the second generation of the BMW 5 Series, produced from 1981 to 1988. It succeeded the E12 and was replaced by the E34.
535I Positioning:
The 535i represented the higher-performance variant of the E28 line, slotting above the 528e and below the M5.
Production Period E28:
1981-1988
Model Year Specifics 1986:
The 1986 model year falls within the later production run of the E28, likely featuring a mix of features from earlier and updated versions.
Period Automotive Press:
The E28 generation received widespread critical acclaim for its performance, handling, and luxury, often praised by publications like Car and Driver and MotorTrend.
Longevity Reputation:
Considered a classic and a benchmark for sports sedans of its era, with a strong enthusiast following and recognition for its build quality and driving pleasure.
