Positioning:
Premium mid-size luxury sedan, known for driving dynamics and build quality.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ, Volvo 740/760.
Vehicle Appeal:
Performance, handling, build quality, driver-oriented cockpit, refined interior.
Value:
Essential for owners and independent mechanics to maintain and repair the vehicle accurately, preserving its performance and longevity. Offers cost savings over dealership servicing.
Primary Coverage:
Full Factory Service Repair
Scope:
All mechanical and electrical systems
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (specific count not provided in product info, but implied by 'hundreds of pages')
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, component testing, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system
Engine Management:
Ignition system, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), sensor diagnostics, emission controls
Transmission Manual:
Repair, overhaul, clutch service, driveshafts, differential
Transmission Automatic:
Repair, overhaul, fluid service, torque converter
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) if equipped, caliper/rotor service, parking brake
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, wheel alignment
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, steering column
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting, instrumentation, power accessories
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, chassis structural components, corrosion protection
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C operation, heater core, blower motor
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Rebuilds:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostics:
Fault code interpretation (if applicable to the era/system), diagnostic connector locations, component testing procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and component-level diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Inline-6 Cylinder (M30)
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2788 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 80.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 (typical for M30B28)
Horsepower:
170 hp @ 5800 rpm (approximate)
Torque:
177 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Fuel Injection (LE-Jetronic or L-Jetronic variants depending on specific market and production date)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as specified by BMW, typically premium)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (Bosch)
Type:
4-speed Manual (Getrag 260/5)
Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Manual Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific gear ratios
Automatic Features:
Sport and Economy modes (on some variants)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 for manual transmission, check manual for exact spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF
Crash Testing:
Limited official modern ratings available; known for robust chassis construction for its era.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some models.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag typically standard or optional on later 1988 models; passenger airbag not commonly available.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts, two-point rear seatbelts (or optional three-point).
Structural Integrity:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to manual for specific conditions).
Air Filter:
Inspect every 10,000 miles, replace as needed (or every 20,000-30,000 miles).
Spark Plugs:
Replace approximately every 20,000-30,000 miles, depending on plug type.
Timing Belt:
N/A (M30 engine is a chain-driven OHC design, requires periodic tensioner checks).
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (check manual for ambient temperature suitability and specific BMW approval).
Coolant:
BMW coolant or a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water.
Engine:
Head gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, valve stem seals (leading to blue smoke on startup), injector seal leaks, fuel pump issues.
Cooling System:
Radiator leaks, thermostat housing leaks, fan clutch failure, water pump seals.
Electrical:
Fuse box corrosion, aging wiring harnesses, alternator failure, starter solenoid issues, instrument cluster problems (e.g., dead pixels).
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, shock absorbers, rear trailing arm bushings.
Body:
Rust in common areas like wheel wells, rocker panels, sunroof drains, and around windows.
Oil Filter Example:
Mann-Filter W 940/5 or Bosch 3301 (verify with manual or parts catalog for exact fitment).
Heritage:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is a German luxury vehicle manufacturer with a long history dating back to 1916, renowned for performance and engineering ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').
E28 Generation:
The E28 was the second generation of the BMW 5 Series, produced from 1981 to 1988. It succeeded the E12 and was known for its improved handling, more powerful engines, and updated styling. The 528i was a significant model within this range, offering a balance of performance and luxury.
Production Years:
E28: 1981-1988. The 528i specifically was available in certain markets for much of this period, including 1988.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany, South Africa, and other international assembly plants.
Historical Acclaim:
The E28 generation generally received positive reviews for its driving dynamics, build quality, and blend of sportiness and luxury, contributing to BMW's reputation.
Performance Reviews:
Praised for its responsive engine, balanced chassis, and engaging driving experience, characteristic of BMW's engineering philosophy.
