Positioning:
Essential technical resource for BMW E30 owners and independent repair shops focusing on this classic model.
Advantage:
Genuine factory documentation provides the highest level of accuracy and completeness compared to aftermarket manuals.
Benefit:
Enables DIY repairs and maintenance, saving significant costs on dealership or independent garage services.
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners with the knowledge to properly service and maintain their E30 for optimal performance and longevity.
Engine And Engine Electrical:
Comprehensive coverage of engine maintenance, repair, diagnosis, and electrical systems.
Fuel System:
Detailed information on fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel injection systems, and fuel delivery components.
Cooling And Exhaust:
Includes radiator, cooling system components, exhaust manifolds, pipes, and mufflers.
Clutch:
Procedures for clutch inspection, replacement, and related components.
Transmission:
Covers both manual and automatic transmissions, including gear shift mechanisms, maintenance, and repair.
Drivetrain:
Includes propeller shaft, transfer box (if applicable to certain E30 models), and front/rear axles.
Steering And Suspension:
Detailed guidance on steering systems, wheel alignment, integrated suspension systems, and components.
Brakes:
Comprehensive coverage of brake system components, maintenance, bleeding, and repair.
Wheels And Tires:
Information on wheel specifications, tire mounting, and related procedures.
Body And Body Equipment:
Covers body repair, panels, doors, windows, and general body equipment.
Electrical System:
Detailed information on the entire electrical system, including wiring diagrams and component testing.
Lighting:
Covers headlight, taillight, and interior lighting systems, including troubleshooting.
HVAC:
Includes heating and air conditioning system diagnosis, repair, and refrigerant handling.
Equipment And Accessories:
Information related to interior and exterior accessories and their installation/repair.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures, fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspections.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems.
Diagnosis:
Troubleshooting guides and diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving issues.
Disassembly And Reassembly:
Detailed instructions for taking apart and putting back together various components and systems.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete electrical wiring diagrams for accurate electrical system diagnosis and repair.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and full rebuilds.
Engine Family:
M20 (Inline-6) and M10 (Inline-4) depending on the specific E30 model variant.
Typical Engines For 1990:
M20B25 (2.5L Inline-6), M20B27 (2.7L Inline-6, 'eta'), M10B18 (1.8L Inline-4)
Example 2.5L I6 Specs:
Approx. 168 hp @ 5800 rpm, 164 lb-ft @ 4750 rpm (M20B25)
Example 2.7L I6 Specs:
Approx. 121 hp @ 4250 rpm, 170 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (M20B27 'eta' - focus on torque)
Fuel Injection:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection systems (specific variant depends on engine and market).
Fuel Requirement:
Unleaded gasoline (typically 91 octane or higher).
Manual Transmission:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission is common on many E30 models.
Automatic Transmission:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission available on select models.
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated diaphragm spring clutch.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends specific manual transmission fluids. Consult manual for exact specifications and capacity (e.g., Pentosin, Red Line MTL).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF fluid (e.g., Dexron III equivalent). Consult manual for exact specifications and capacity.
Body Styles:
2-door sedan (coupe), 4-door sedan, convertible, and convertible-cabriolet.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 101.2 inches (2570 mm) for sedan/coupe models.
Curb Weight:
Varies by model, typically ranging from 2,600 to 3,000 lbs (1180 to 1360 kg).
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with upgraded speaker systems on higher trims.
Features:
Limited by the era, focused on core audio playback. No integrated navigation or digital displays typical of modern cars.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on many E30 models, particularly later ones.
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features such as Bluetooth, USB, or Wi-Fi. Focus is on mechanical and electrical systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for precise interval.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, air filter, and fuel filter checks/replacements recommended at intervals specified in the manual (e.g., every 20,000-30,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
BMW High Performance Synthetic Engine Oil, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 is common. Consult manual for specific viscosity and API rating.
Coolant:
BMW Blue or Green coolant (ethylene glycol based) mixed with distilled water. Consult manual for correct mixture ratio and type.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 non-silicone based brake fluid.
Common E30 Issues:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel distributor issues (M20), ignition system components (coil, distributor), worn suspension bushings, rust in common areas (fender wells, rocker panels).
Maintenance Tip:
Regularly inspect the cooling system and replace aging rubber components proactively.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, high-performance vehicles with excellent engineering.
E30 Generation:
The E30 generation (1982-1994) succeeded the E21 and introduced significant design and engineering advancements, including the iconic M3 variant.
Production Years:
1982-1994 (with 1990 being a mid-to-late production year for the E30 generation).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany, with some production in other BMW facilities globally.
