🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

316

Year:

1985

Chassis Code:

E30

Engine Code Variant:

M10 (likely M10B16)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Volvo 240 Series

Brand Philosophy:

'The Ultimate Driving Machine' - emphasis on performance, handling, and driver engagement.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners and independent mechanics with factory-level knowledge for accurate and efficient repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Coverage:

BMW 316 (E30) 1985 Model Year

Estimated Page Count:

500-700 (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), potentially printable scans

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed overhaul procedures, component testing, timing belt/chain replacement, gasket replacement, cooling system, lubrication system.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection system (likely Bosch L-Jetronic or similar), ignition system, emissions control systems, sensor testing and replacement.

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic transmission overhaul, clutch service, driveshaft, differential, fluid specifications and replacement procedures.

Brakes:

Disc and drum brake systems, hydraulic lines, calipers, master cylinder, ABS (if equipped), bleeding procedures, component replacement.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings), shock absorber replacement, alignment specifications, wheel bearings.

Steering:

Steering rack, power steering system (if applicable), tie rod ends, steering column, component adjustment and replacement.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, fuses, relays, diagnostic procedures for electrical faults.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, glass replacement, rust prevention and repair guidance.

Heating And Air Conditioning:

HVAC system components, refrigerant, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, leak detection, and repair.

Preventive Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, tune-up procedures.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems with step-by-step solutions.

Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.

Diagnostics:

Methods for identifying the root cause of problems, including visual inspection, testing of components, and interpretation of symptoms.

Refurbishment Restoration:

Guidance on restoring specific systems or components to original specifications, including painting, plating, and parts sourcing.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced: Includes detailed diagnostic trees and troubleshooting steps for complex issues.

Special Tools:

Lists required special tools for specific procedures, often with descriptions or illustrations.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (likely scanned from original print)

Scan Resolution:

Varies, typically 300-600 dpi for readability

Original Binding:

Perfect bound or spiral bound (typical for professional service manuals)

Original Paper Type:

Durable, high-quality paper stock for shop use

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated

Engine Family:

BMW M10

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1766 cc)

Horsepower:

Approx. 99-105 hp (DIN) @ 5500-5800 rpm (depending on market and specific tune)

Torque:

Approx. 100-103 lb-ft (136-140 Nm) @ 3500-3750 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Mechanical Fuel Injection (likely Bosch L-Jetronic or K-Jetronic variants)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as specified by BMW for the region)

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

4-speed Manual

Optional Transmission Type:

3-speed Automatic (ZF 3HP22)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulic actuation

Transmission Fluid Type:

Manual: SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil (GL-4 specification); Automatic: Dexron III or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4360 mm (171.7 in)

Width:

Approx. 1680 mm (66.1 in)

Height:

Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1100-1200 kg (2425-2645 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1600 kg (3527 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test History:

E30 generation generally performed well for its era, though specific 316 1985 ratings are less common than later models.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional ABS available on some models.

Seatbelts:

Standard three-point front seatbelts, two-point rear seatbelts.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Radio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with basic speaker systems. Aftermarket upgrades common.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some configurations.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; primarily focused on basic vehicle functions. No integrated Bluetooth or navigation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000 - 30,000 miles (32,000 - 48,000 km) for standard spark plugs; longer for platinum/iridium.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH rated, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on ambient temperature).

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Common E30 Issues:

Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel distributor diaphragm failure (K-Jetronic), worn front control arm bushings, differential mount failure, rust in common areas (wheel arches, rocker panels, strut towers).

M10 Engine Quirks:

Can be prone to oil leaks from the oil pan gasket and valve cover gasket. Timing chain tensioner and guides require inspection.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for engineering excellence, sporty driving dynamics, and premium quality.

E30 Introduction:

The E30 platform was introduced in 1982, replacing the E21. It was a significant evolution, offering improved handling, safety, and refinement.

316 Positioning:

The 316 served as the entry-level model in the E30 range, offering BMW quality and driving characteristics at a more accessible price point.

Production Period:

E30 production ran from 1982 to 1994. The 1985 model year falls within the early production phase of the E30.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Acclaim:

The E30 generation, as a whole, is widely lauded by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its driving dynamics and build quality, often considered a benchmark in its class.

Enthusiast Ratings:

Highly regarded for classic BMW appeal and potential for performance tuning.