🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Chassis Code:

E30

Model Year Coverage:

1993

Product Name:

BMW 3 Series E30 1993 Service Repair Workshop Manual

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive / Sports Sedan

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional automotive repair shops.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W201 (190E), Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Volvo 240/740.

Vehicle Reputation:

Renowned for driving dynamics, build quality, and longevity. The E30 is considered a benchmark in its class.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential technical data for maintaining and repairing a classic and highly sought-after BMW model, empowering owners to perform tasks themselves or understand professional repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Engines Covered:

M20 6-cylinder (2.5L/2.7L), M40 4-cylinder (1.6L/1.8L), potentially M42 4-cylinder (1.8L DOHC) depending on specific manual variant.

Body Styles Covered:

Sedan (E30/4), Coupe (E30/2), Convertible (E30/2C), Touring (E30/3), Sport Utility Vehicle (E30/6 - limited production).

Estimated Pages:

500-1500+ (Varies greatly by specific publication, typical comprehensive workshop manuals are extensive).

Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Repair Manual

Language:

English (Primary, often supplemented with diagrams in multiple languages)

Format:

PDF (typically for digital versions), Printed Book (original factory manuals or reputable reprints).

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, ignition system, exhaust system, lubrication system.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (Getrag 260), Automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22), clutch system, driveshaft, differential.

Chassis Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (Semi-trailing arms), steering system (rack and pinion), steering column, power steering.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes (depending on model/year), brake system hydraulics, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, ECU (Engine Control Unit) diagnosis.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, dashboard, climate control system, HVAC, interior trim.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, brake pad replacement, belt inspections and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common faults, error code interpretation (for applicable ECUs), step-by-step fault finding guides.

Repair Rebuild:

Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuild, electrical component repair.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair or diagnostic procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, diagnostics, repair, and full component overhauls. Suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Quality:

High-resolution PDF, searchable text (if OCR'd), printable pages.

Printed Paper Type:

Durable, often glossy or matte finish paper for longevity in workshop environments.

Binding:

Perfect bound or spiral bound for easy page turning and lay-flat capability on a workbench.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

E30 325I Engine:

M20B25, 2.5L inline-six, SOHC, Bosch Motronic fuel injection.

E30 318Is Engine:

M42B18, 1.8L inline-four, DOHC, 16 valves, Bosch Motronic fuel injection.

325I Horsepower:

Approx. 168 hp @ 5800 rpm (DIN)

325I Torque:

Approx. 164 lb-ft (225 Nm) @ 4750 rpm (DIN)

318Is Horsepower:

Approx. 134 hp @ 6000 rpm (DIN)

318Is Torque:

Approx. 127 lb-ft (172 Nm) @ 4500 rpm (DIN)

Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), typically Bosch Motronic system.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, premium octane recommended (91 AKI or higher).

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual (RWD).

Automatic Transmission:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single-plate dry clutch.

Final Drive:

Limited-slip differential (LSD) available as an option on performance models.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Sedan:

2,565 mm (101.0 in)

Length Sedan:

4,330 mm (170.5 in)

Width Sedan:

1,675 mm (65.9 in)

Height Sedan:

1,380 mm (54.3 in)

Curb Weight Example 325I:

Approx. 1,350 kg (2,976 lbs)

Wheelbase Coupe:

2,565 mm (101.0 in)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Wheel Offset Typical:

ET 20 - ET 30

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Notes:

As E30 predates modern standardized crash testing (like NHTSA 5-star ratings), specific official ratings are rare. However, the E30 was known for robust construction for its era.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option on many models.

Airbags:

Driver airbag became more common in later models like the 1993MY, passenger airbags were less common or unavailable on many E30s.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts in the front and rear.

💡 Technology Features

Radio Options:

Factory AM/FM radio, cassette player. Optional premium sound systems available.

Onboard Computer:

Optional On-Board Computer (OBC) providing functions like fuel consumption, range, and basic diagnostics.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on most models.

Ancillary Tech:

Power windows, power locks, sunroof (often manual or power assisted), heated seats (optional).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles) depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).

Timing Belt Chain Notes:

M20 engines use a timing belt, typically replaced every 100,000 km (60,000 miles) or 5 years. M40/M42 engines use a timing chain which is generally more durable but can require tensioner service.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW recommends synthetic oil conforming to BMW Longlife-98 or earlier specifications, typically SAE 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-40 depending on climate.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. BMW Part No. 81 22 9 407 004 (or equivalent).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-80.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III (or equivalent, check specific ZF specs for the 4HP22).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 or DOT 3 brake fluid (DOT 4 preferred for higher boiling point).

Common Engine Problems:

Head gasket leaks (especially on higher mileage M20s), fuel injector issues, idle control valve problems, vacuum leaks, thermostat housing leaks.

Common Chassis Problems:

Rear trailing arm bushings failure, front control arm bushings wear, ball joint wear, shock absorber degradation, cracking of the fuel tank bracing.

Common Electrical Problems:

Cracked wiring insulation (especially near the engine bay), faulty fuel pump relays, instrument cluster issues, OBC (On-Board Computer) failure.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for building driver-focused, well-engineered vehicles with sporting credentials.

E30 Introduction:

Introduced in 1982, the E30 replaced the successful E21 and became one of BMW's most iconic models, establishing the brand's dominance in the compact executive segment.

E30 1993 Context:

The 1993 model year represents the final production year for the E30 in many markets, marking the end of a highly successful generation before the introduction of the E36.

Production Period:

1982-1994 (for the E30 platform globally, with 1993 being a key late-year model).

Key Variants Emerged:

M3 (E30), Alpina variants, widely popular 325i and 318i models.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E30 Awards Notes:

While specific 'awards' for the 1993 model year may not be cataloged as modern awards, the E30 series consistently received critical acclaim from automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, handling, and build quality throughout its production run.

E30 Legacy Recognition:

Often cited in 'greatest cars of all time' lists and remains a popular choice for track days, autocross, and classic car collections due to its inherent performance and enthusiast following.