🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

1 Series

Model Variants:

116i, 116d, 118i, 118d, 120i, 120d, 123d, 130i

Generation:

E81/E82/E87/E88

Production Years Covered:

2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011

Chassis Codes:

E87 (Hatchback), E81 (3-door Hatchback), E82 (Coupe), E88 (Convertible)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact executive hatchback/coupe/convertible.

Brand Philosophy:

Known for 'Sheer Driving Pleasure,' blending performance, luxury, and advanced engineering.

Primary Competitors:

Audi A3, Mercedes-Benz A-Class, Volkswagen Golf GTI, Ford Focus ST.

Platform Design:

Rear-wheel drive biased platform (initially), offering superior driving dynamics compared to FWD competitors.

Engine Options:

Wide range of efficient 4-cylinder petrol (N45, N43) and diesel (N47) engines, plus a powerful inline-6 for the 130i.

Body Styles:

Available in 5-door hatchback (E87), 3-door hatchback (E81), 2-door coupe (E82), and 2-door convertible (E88).

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

Page Count Estimated:

~2000-3000+ pages (typical for comprehensive manuals of this scope)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, valvetrain, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, timing components, engine diagnostics, fuel injection, emission control systems.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starter motor, alternator, battery, ECU (Engine Control Unit) wiring diagrams, sensors, actuators.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox assembly, gear shifting mechanisms, linkage, transmission fluid specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission assembly, torque converter, hydraulic control, electronic control unit, transmission fluid specifications, valve body.

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, constant velocity joints (CV joints), differential, rear axle assembly, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bars, wheel alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering rack, steering column, steering wheel, tie rods, steering angle sensor.

Brakes:

Brake system operation, front and rear disc brakes, brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, brake fluid specifications, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), parking brake.

Electrical System:

12V electrical system, battery, charging system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring harnesses, body control module (BCM).

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass, sunroof, bumpers, chassis frame, corrosion protection.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, climate control, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower motor, cabin air filter.

Interior Trim:

Dashboard removal, center console, seats, upholstery, door panels, headliner, interior lighting.

Infotainment And Electronics:

Radio/audio system, navigation system (if equipped), displays, infotainment control unit, Bluetooth connectivity, parking sensors, camera systems.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, cabin filter replacement, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, use of diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA), symptom-based diagnostics.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all covered systems.

Overhaul Procedures:

Detailed instructions for engine and transmission overhauls, including specifications for machining and assembly.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic procedures for electrical faults.

Wheel Alignment And Tire Service:

Wheel alignment specifications, tire pressure recommendations, tire rotation procedures.

Diagnostic Tools:

Guidance on using BMW-specific diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA/D, INPA) and generic OBD-II scanners.

Repair Complexity:

Covers a wide range of repairs from basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission overhauls, suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Provides precise torque specifications, clearances, and tolerances for all mechanical components.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable for quick access to specific information.

Print Quality:

High-resolution, printable pages for workshop use.

Accessibility:

Downloadable for offline access on multiple devices.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes Overview:

N45B16 (116i), N47D20 (116d, 118d, 120d), N43B16/N43B20 (118i, 120i), M54B30 (older 130i variants, potentially N52B30 for later models in range), N54B30 (123d).

116I Power Hp:

Approx. 115-122 hp

116D Power Hp:

Approx. 110-115 hp

118I Power Hp:

Approx. 143 hp

118D Power Hp:

Approx. 143 hp

120I Power Hp:

Approx. 170 hp

120D Power Hp:

Approx. 177 hp

123D Power Hp:

Approx. 204 hp (TwinPower Turbo Diesel)

130I Power Hp:

Approx. 255-265 hp (Naturally Aspirated Inline-6)

Petrol Injection Type:

Direct Injection (N43) or Multi-point Injection (N45/N46)

Diesel Injection Type:

Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI)

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

6-speed manual transmission (Getrag or ZF variants).

Automatic Transmission:

6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission (ZF 6HP19).

Drivetrain Layout:

Primarily rear-wheel drive (RWD), with xDrive (AWD) potentially available on some niche variants or later models within the year range.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2660 mm (E87/E81), 2660 mm (E82/E88)

Length:

Approx. 4239 mm (E87/E81), 4361 mm (E82), 4360 mm (E88)

Width:

Approx. 1751 mm (E87/E81/E82/E88)

Height:

Approx. 1421 mm (E87/E81), 1385 mm (E82), 1395 mm (E88)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 1300 kg - 1550 kg depending on engine and body style.

Trunk Capacity Liters:

Approx. 330 liters (Hatchback), 370 liters (Coupe), 260 liters (Convertible)

🛡️ Safety Features

Euroncap Rating:

5 Stars (typical for this generation E87)

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including ABS, DTC, CBC (Cornering Brake Control).

Braking Assist:

Brake Assist system.

Airbags:

Front airbags, side airbags, head airbags (curtain airbags).

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Idrive System:

BMW's iDrive infotainment system, controlled via a central rotary knob and buttons, offering navigation, media, climate control, and vehicle settings.

Parking Aids:

Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear sensors.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control, with optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) on some models.

Bluetooth:

Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable Service Interval (VSI) based on driving conditions, typically around 15,000-25,000 km or 1-2 years, indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system.

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Change:

Initial fill for life, or replacement typically around 4-5 years, depending on manufacturer recommendation and coolant type.

Engine Oil Spec:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) for diesel, depending on engine and region. Viscosity typically 0W-30 or 5W-30.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 rated manual transmission fluid, specific viscosity often specified (e.g., 75W-80 or 75W-90).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ZF LifeguardFluid 6 (for 6HP19 transmissions).

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4.

Coolant Spec:

BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 ethylene glycol based).

N47 Diesel Timing Chain:

Early N47 diesel engines were prone to timing chain wear and failure. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

E87 Water Pump Failure:

Reports of electric water pump failures on certain models, leading to overheating. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.

Injector Issues Petrol:

Direct injection petrol engines (N43) can experience injector issues, carbon buildup. Manual details cleaning and replacement.

Dpf Issues Diesel:

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) clogging can occur with predominantly short-journey driving. Manual provides regeneration procedures and troubleshooting.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

BMW AG, a German multinational company, renowned for luxury and performance vehicles since its founding in 1916.

First Generation:

The 1 Series (E81/E87) was BMW's first foray into the compact premium segment, launched in 2004.

Facelift:

A significant facelift occurred in 2007, introducing updated styling, engines (e.g., N43 petrols), and improved interior features.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily produced at BMW's Leipzig plant in Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Ward Powertrain Excellence:

BMW's engines, particularly their inline-6 and efficient 4-cylinder units, have historically received 'Ward's 10 Best Engines' awards, reflecting their engineering prowess relevant to the 1 Series powertrain options.

European Car Of The Year:

While the 1 Series itself may not have won the overall award, its introduction represented a significant product development for BMW in a key segment.