Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and owners seeking to maintain or restore their E30 316i.
Competitors 1989:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra XR4i, Opel Vectra
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and precise steering.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW build quality of the era, emphasizing durability and driver engagement.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all engine components (cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, etc.)
Engine Management And Fuel:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection system, ignition system, diagnostic procedures, sensors, actuators, fuel pump, injectors, throttle body
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Getrag 260/5) repair, clutch service, driveline components (driveshaft, CV joints)
Brakes:
Front disc brakes (ATE or Lucas Girling), rear drum brakes (or optional rear discs for some trims), hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), bleeding procedures, component replacement
Suspension And Steering:
Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, ball joints, control arms, bushings, steering rack, power steering system
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, fuses, relays, lighting system, instrumentation, power windows, central locking
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, rust prevention, door mechanisms, interior trim, bumper systems
Heating And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling (R12)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems (engine performance, starting issues, electrical faults)
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components
Rebuilding And Reconditioning:
Detailed guides for rebuilding engine, transmission, and other major sub-assemblies
Diagnostics:
Procedures for using diagnostic tools (if applicable for the era), reading fault codes, sensor testing
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission overhauls.
Illustrations:
Detailed diagrams, exploded views, and photographs to illustrate procedures.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, timing settings, diagnostic values.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Air Filter:
Replace every 30,000 - 40,000 km (18,000 - 25,000 miles).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 40,000 - 60,000 km (25,000 - 37,000 miles).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 40,000 km (25,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended (check owner's manual for exact specifications based on climate).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.25 Liters (4.5 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II (or equivalent).
Engine Seals:
Oil leaks from crank seals (front and rear), valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket are common due to age.
Cooling System:
Plastic radiator end tanks can become brittle and crack; heater core leaks are also possible.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in control arm bushings, trailing arm bushings, and sway bar links can lead to poor handling and noise.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion in electrical connectors, especially ground points, can cause intermittent electrical issues.
Fuel Pump:
Fuel pump relays and the pumps themselves can become weak or fail with age.
