Segment:
Compact Luxury Sports Sedan/Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops.
Competitors Era:
1980s German luxury performance vehicles, including Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, and other premium European and American marques.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced handling, rear-wheel-drive platform, and engaging driving experience.
Convertible Specific:
The E30 convertible (often designated as E30/2C) offered a premium open-top experience with a well-engineered soft-top and reinforced chassis for its time.
Engine Philosophy:
Inline-six cylinder engines known for their smooth power delivery and durability.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul procedures, component identification, torque specifications, timing belt/chain replacement, lubrication, cooling system, fuel delivery system (including injection), exhaust system.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, ECU diagnosis, sensor testing, starter, alternator, wiring diagrams for engine management.
Transmission Manual:
Gearbox disassembly, assembly, clutch operation, shift linkage, fluid specifications.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission operation, control, maintenance, fluid types, torque converter.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, brake lines, master cylinder, brake calipers, pads, rotors, parking brake, ABS system (if applicable).
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, central locking, instrument cluster, fuse box diagrams, wiring schematics.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, convertible top operation and repair, interior trim, chassis components, rust prevention and repair.
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC system components, refrigerant handling, blower motor, climate control operation.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, brake inspections, tire rotations.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all major systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.
Component Removal Installation:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for removing and reinstalling virtually every major and minor component.
Specifications Data:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance, diagnostic readings.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Check for leaks, typically no scheduled change interval but inspection is recommended. Automatic: Around 60,000 miles (100,000 km) or as specified by BMW for the fluid type used.
Coolant Change:
Every 2-3 years or approximately 30,000-50,000 miles (50,000-80,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles (50,000-100,000 km), depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).
Engine Oil:
SAE 15W-40, 10W-40, or 5W-40 synthetic; check manual for exact API/ACEA specifications. Capacity approx. 4.5 - 5.0 liters.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity approx. 7.0 - 8.0 liters.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent, or specific BMW power steering fluid (check manual).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 GL-4 gear oil. Capacity approx. 1.4 liters.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or Dexron III automatic transmission fluid. Capacity approx. 3.5 - 4.0 liters for drain and refill.
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing.
Cooling System Failures:
Cracked plastic coolant expansion tanks, failing water pumps, and deteriorating hoses are frequent issues.
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and rear trailing arm bushings (RTABs) leading to poor handling and noise.
Convertible Top Mechanism:
Hydraulic leaks in the convertible top system, failing motors, and worn seals can cause operational issues.
Idle Control Valve:
Faulty Idle Control Valve (ICV) can lead to rough idling or stalling.
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Fuel pumps can degrade over time, leading to hard starting or intermittent power loss.
Rust Prevalence:
Areas prone to rust include rocker panels, rear wheel arches, jacking points, and the battery tray area.
Brand Focus:
BMW's long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, sporty, and reliable automobiles.
E30 Generation Intro:
The E30 platform was introduced in 1982 as a successor to the E21 3 Series. The convertible variant debuted in 1985.
E30 Convertible Significance:
The E30 convertible was a highly successful model that solidified BMW's position in the premium convertible market.
Production Years E30:
1982-1991 (sedans/coupes), 1985-1993 (convertibles)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing and Munich, Germany.
