🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

316i

Model Code:

E30

Applicable Years:

1988, 1989, 1990, 1991

Engine Code:

M40B16

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible

Brand Reputation:

BMW known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', sporty handling, and premium build quality.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W201 (190E), Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Volvo 240/740 series.

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts seeking a reliable, driver-focused vehicle with a sporty pedigree and strong aftermarket support.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive DIY repair and maintenance capabilities, enabling owners to preserve the performance and longevity of their classic BMW.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, implied by common availability for this era)

Estimated Page Count:

400-600 pages (typical for comprehensive E30 service manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine removal/installation, cylinder head repair, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and main bearing service, oil pump and oil pan service, timing chain and belt service (if applicable for M40), valve train adjustment, engine block machining specifications.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system diagnostics and repair, starting system, charging system (alternator, starter), engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensor testing and replacement (e.g., crank position, cam position, MAF/MAP, O2), fuel injection system diagnostics.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump testing and replacement, fuel filter replacement, fuel injector testing and cleaning, fuel pressure regulation, fuel tank service.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch inspection and replacement, transmission removal and installation, gearshift mechanism adjustment, transmission fluid change and specifications, internal transmission component service (e.g., synchros, bearings, gears).

Transmission Automatic:

Transmission fluid change and specifications, torque converter service, transmission removal and installation, general diagnostic procedures for automatic transmissions.

Drivetrain And Axles:

Driveshaft inspection and repair, universal joint (U-joint) service, rear axle differential service, output shaft seal replacement, wheel bearing inspection and replacement.

Suspension And Steering:

Front suspension component replacement (struts, control arms, ball joints), rear suspension component replacement (shocks, control arms, bushings), steering rack service, power steering system troubleshooting, tie rod end replacement, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service and rebuilding, brake line and hose inspection and replacement, brake fluid bleeding procedures, parking brake adjustment, master cylinder service, ABS diagnostics and repair (if equipped).

Electrical System Wiring:

Complete wiring diagrams for all major systems, fuse box layouts and descriptions, relay functions, component location charts, troubleshooting guides based on electrical symptoms, lighting system repair, horn and wiper system service.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door and window regulator repair, interior trim removal, exterior trim component replacement, rust repair guidelines, jacking points and lifting procedures, underbody component protection.

Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning HVAC:

HVAC system component identification, refrigerant system service (charging, evacuation - with appropriate safety precautions and tools), blower motor replacement, heater core replacement, A/C compressor diagnostics, climate control panel troubleshooting.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fuel filter replacement, coolant flush and replacement, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid change, differential fluid change, lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, starting problems, cooling system failures, brake system malfunctions, and more, often presented with flowcharts or symptom-based indexes.

Component Replacement:

Detailed, step-by-step instructions for removing and installing virtually every mechanical and electrical component on the vehicle.

Rebuilding And Refurbishment:

Guidance on rebuilding major components like engines, transmissions, brake calipers, and steering racks, including part specifications and tolerances.

Technical Specifications And Data:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine timing data, valve clearances, fluid capacities, electrical component resistance values, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls. Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format) - assumed for ease of distribution and searchability.

Searchability:

Likely fully searchable text for quick access to information.

Printability:

Printable, allowing for physical reference in a workshop setting.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams to ensure clarity of repair procedures.

Binding:

N/A (for digital format). If printed, typically spiral-bound or saddle-stitched for lay-flat use.

Paper Quality:

N/A (for digital format). If printed, typically durable, medium-weight paper resistant to shop grease and grime.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-4, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 16-valve

Engine Displacement:

1.6 Liters (1596 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 71.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1 or 9.0:1 (depending on market and specific tune)

Horsepower Net:

Approx. 100-102 hp (metric PS) @ 5500-6000 rpm

Torque Net:

Approx. 140-145 Nm (103-107 lb-ft) @ 4000-4300 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (RON 91/95 recommended)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based coolant (e.g., BMW Blue coolant or equivalent)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 - 8.0 Liters

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 245 or similar)

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 4HP22 or similar)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (check manual for specific BMW PN)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for specific BMW PN)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 in) for Sedan

Width:

Approx. 1640 mm (64.6 in) for Sedan

Height:

Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in) for Sedan

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in) for Sedan

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1180-1250 kg (2600-2750 lbs) depending on body style and transmission

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Typically around 1600-1700 kg (3527-3748 lbs)

Standard Wheel Size:

14 inch or 15 inch alloy wheels (e.g., BMW Style 13)

Standard Tire Size:

185/65R14 or 195/65R15

Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Center Bore:

72.5 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited official crash test data available for this specific era and model from agencies like NHTSA or Euro NCAP. However, the E30 chassis was known for robust construction for its time.

ABS Availability:

Optional on many models, including some 316i variants.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag typically optional or not available on base 316i models from these years; passenger airbag not standard.

Seat Belts:

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

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and B-pillars. Convertible models often featured reinforced windshield frames.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with optional upgraded speakers or amplifier systems. Analog controls.

Climate Control:

Manual HVAC controls with fan speed, temperature selection, and air distribution. Optional air conditioning (A/C) system.

Cruise Control:

Optional on some models.

Connectivity Features:

None beyond factory radio. No Bluetooth, USB, or auxiliary inputs.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Recommended every 20,000 - 30,000 km (12,000 - 18,000 miles), depending on plug type (standard vs. platinum).

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 20,000 - 40,000 km (12,000 - 24,000 miles) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Coolant Replacement Interval:

Every 2 years or 40,000 km (24,000 miles).

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific BMW PN and viscosity range based on ambient temperature).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Common E30 Issues:

Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel injector seal failures, heater control valve issues, sunroof drain cloggage, differential mount cracking, subframe bushing wear, rust in common areas (wheel wells, rocker panels, battery tray).

M40 Engine Quirks:

Potential for timing chain stretch over time, valve cover gasket leaks, idle control valve issues, and sensitivity to incorrect spark plug types.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for engineering excellence, sporty dynamics, and premium build quality established long before the E30 generation.

E30 Generation:

The E30 was BMW's second-generation 3 Series, produced from 1982 to 1994. It represented a significant evolution in design and engineering over the E21. The 316i was an entry-level model in many markets.

Production Years:

The E30 generation was produced from 1982 to 1994. The 316i model specifically was updated and sold throughout this period, with the 1988-1991 timeframe covering a significant portion of the facelifted E30 models (post-1987).

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Germany (e.g., Munich, Dingolfing) and also at plants in South Africa and the USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Vehicle Awards:

The E30 generation, as a whole, received numerous accolades over its production run for its driving dynamics and build quality, contributing to BMW's strong reputation.

Automotive Journal Reviews:

Consistently praised by automotive publications of the era for its handling, ride comfort, and driver engagement. Considered a benchmark in its class.

Manual Quality Certification:

N/A - Manual quality is judged by its comprehensiveness and accuracy, which this product description suggests is high.