🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

528i

Year:

1987

Chassis Code:

E28

Engine Code:

M30B28

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Mid-Size Sedan

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional workshops specializing in vintage BMWs.

Competitors 1987:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Volvo 700 Series, Jaguar XJ6.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned BMW handling, balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, comfortable ride.

Engine Character:

Smooth and torquey M30 inline-six engine.

Value Proposition:

Provides in-depth, factory-level repair and maintenance information essential for preserving and restoring the E28 528i.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics

Secondary Coverage:

Wiring Diagrams, Technical Specifications, Component Overviews

Estimated Pages:

800+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

M30B28 2.8L Inline-6: Engine mechanicals, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic), ignition system, emissions control.

Transmission:

Getrag 260 5-speed Manual Transmission, ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission: Overhaul, repair, clutch, torque converter, shift mechanisms, fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive, driveshaft, differential, half-shafts, axle bearings.

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, rear independent trailing arm suspension: Bushings, control arms, ball joints, shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bars, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front vented discs, rear solid discs: Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), calipers, rotors, pads, brake lines, master cylinder, bleeding procedures, specifications.

Steering:

Recirculating ball steering system, hydraulic power steering: Steering box, pump, hoses, linkage, fluid specifications, troubleshooting.

Electrical:

12-volt system, battery, alternator, starter motor, fuse box, relay assignments, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power locks, exterior mirrors, antenna, horn, HVAC blower motor.

Fuel System:

Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection: Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter, fuel tank, lines, troubleshooting of injection system.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers.

Body And Trim:

Exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, grille, glass, seals, interior trim, seats, headliner, dashboard, console.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning: Blower motor, heater core, evaporator core, refrigerant system, controls, diagnosis.

Maintenance:

Oil change intervals, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), filter replacements (oil, fuel, air), spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, battery maintenance.

Repair:

Engine rebuild procedures, cylinder head removal and installation, gasket replacement, component replacement (alternator, starter, fuel pump, water pump, thermostat), transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, steering box adjustment/replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting common issues, diagnostic trouble codes (if applicable to this era), fuel injection system diagnosis, ignition system diagnosis, electrical system fault finding, diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting.

Adjustments:

Valve lash adjustment, idle speed adjustment, ignition timing adjustment, clutch pedal adjustment, parking brake adjustment.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical system wiring schematics for all major systems, including engine management, lighting, accessories, and comfort features.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF, High-Resolution Scans

Searchability:

Searchable Text Layer Included

Scan Quality:

Clear, legible text and diagrams. Original factory printing quality preserved.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2788 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 80.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 Valves per Cylinder

Horsepower:

181 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

230 Nm (169 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Injection System:

Bosch L-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)

Ignition Type:

Electronic Ignition System (Distributor-based)

Cooling Type:

Water-Cooled, Thermostatically Controlled

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed Manual

Transmission Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate (Manual)

Automatic Features:

Lock-up torque converter in 3rd and 4th gear for improved efficiency.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF.2)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent (BMW Part No. 83 22 9 407 870)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4744 mm (186.8 in)

Width:

1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

1410 mm (55.5 in)

Wheelbase:

2795 mm (110.0 in)

Curb Weight Manual:

1480 kg (3263 lbs)

Curb Weight Automatic:

1520 kg (3351 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

2000 kg (4409 lbs)

Payload Capacity:

520 kg (1146 lbs)

Towing Capacity:

1500 kg (3307 lbs) (Braked)

Standard Wheel Size:

14-inch or 15-inch Alloy Wheels

Standard Tire Size:

205/60R14 or 205/55VR15

Wheelbase Bolt Pattern:

5x120

Wheel Offset:

ET15 to ET22 (depending on wheel size)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited official crash test data for this specific year from modern agencies. E28 platform generally considered robust for its era.

ABS:

Standard on 528i models (Bosch ABS II system).

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag became optional/standard later in the E28 production run, availability for 1987 may vary by market/option.

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts front and rear.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM Cassette Stereo System (Brand varied, e.g., Blaupunkt, Becker). Optional CD player may have been available late in production or aftermarket.

Speakers:

Typically 4 to 6 speakers (door, rear parcel shelf).

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional depending on market and trim. Electronically controlled.

Phone Integration:

Not available (designed pre-mobile phone era).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.

Fuel Filter:

Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) with appropriate NGK or Bosch plugs.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil:

API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 recommended (check manual for precise spec).

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change.

Coolant:

50/50 mix of BMW Blue/Green Antifreeze and distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II/III or Pentosin CHF 11S (check manual).

Engine Common Issues:

Oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets, coolant hose failures, occasional injector issues, AFM (Air Flow Meter) problems.

Electrical Common Issues:

Corroded connections, failing relays, instrument cluster illumination issues, window regulator failures.

Suspension Common Issues:

Worn control arm bushings, front strut mount failure, rear shock absorber leaks.

Fuel System Common Issues:

Weak fuel pumps, clogged injectors, faulty fuel pressure regulators.

Rust Prone Areas:

Fender arches, rocker panels, battery tray area, rear wheel wells.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for building driver-focused, high-quality sedans with sporting capabilities.

E28 Generation:

The E28 generation, produced from 1981 to 1988, was the second generation of the 5 Series. It evolved from the E12, featuring improved aerodynamics, more advanced technology, and revised suspension.

528I Placement:

The 528i represented the mid-to-high end of the E28 range, offering a potent inline-six engine known for its smoothness and durability.

Production Years E28:

1981-1988

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing), South Africa, other assembly plants.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E28 Reputation:

The E28 generation was critically acclaimed for its blend of performance, luxury, and refinement, often cited as one of the best handling sedans of its time. Considered a modern classic.

Road Test Reviews:

Contemporary reviews praised its potent engine, precise steering, and comfortable ride. Often compared favorably to its German competitors.

Manual Quality:

Factory certified documentation, providing the most accurate and detailed technical data.