Positioning:
The E30 3 Series, particularly the 316i, was positioned as a compact executive sports sedan, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and handling characteristic of BMW.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, and certain models from Alfa Romeo and Volvo.
Handling:
Renowned for its superb chassis balance, responsive steering, and engaging driving dynamics.
Reliability:
Generally considered reliable with proper maintenance, a hallmark of BMW engineering of the era.
Build Quality:
Known for excellent build quality and durable materials, contributing to its longevity.
Benefit:
Enables owners and technicians to perform a wide range of service and repair tasks, saving on labor costs and ensuring correct procedures are followed.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting
Body Styles Covered:
Sedan (2-door and 4-door), Convertible, Touring (Wagon)
Estimated Pages:
Refer to actual manual for precise count, typically 500+
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Engine:
Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, emission controls
Transmission:
Manual transmission, clutch system, driveline, driveshafts, differential
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, front and rear brakes (disc/drum depending on model), parking brake, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, wipers, horns, power accessories, fuse box diagrams, wiring schematics
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering system, power steering
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, exterior trim, glass replacement, chassis components
Climate Control:
HVAC system, heating, ventilation, air conditioning (if equipped)
Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, belt replacement, battery testing
Repair:
Engine component rebuilds (e.g., cylinder head, pistons), transmission overhaul, brake caliper repair, electrical component replacement, suspension component replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic codes (if applicable for the era), symptom-based diagnostics
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, timing specifications, electrical resistance values
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1596 cc)
Horsepower Ps:
Approx. 100 PS (98 hp) at 5800 rpm (depending on market and specific tuning)
Torque Nm:
Approx. 141 Nm (104 lb-ft) at 4000 rpm (depending on market and specific tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue or equivalent Ethylene Glycol based coolant
Oil Type:
API SJ/SL or ACEA A3/B3, viscosity typically 5W-30 or 5W-40 (refer to manual for exact specification)
Type:
Getrag 240 G (4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission)
Type:
ZF 4HP22 (4-speed automatic transmission)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90 (refer to manual for exact specification)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron IIE or Dexron III equivalent
Crash Test Results:
E30 platform generally performed well for its era, though specific ratings are less common than modern standards. Refer to historical archives for detailed tests.
ABS:
Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some models.
Traction Control:
Not typically available on the 316i E30.
Airbags:
Driver airbag optional on later models, passenger airbag not standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts, driver and front passenger.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones designed for impact energy absorption.
Radio:
Factory-fitted radio/cassette player (e.g., BMW Bavaria C, RDS models). Upgrades common.
Speakers:
Typically 4 or 6 speakers, depending on trim and options.
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control available on some models.
Bluetooth Usb:
Not factory-equipped. Aftermarket solutions are available.
Oil Change:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific recommendation based on driving conditions.
Air Filter:
Replace every 30,000-40,000 km or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 40,000-60,000 km. Specific type (e.g., NGK BKR6EK) recommended.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as per manual recommendation to maintain corrosion protection.
Timing Belt:
The M40 engine uses a timing *belt*. Replacement interval is critical, typically every 60,000-80,000 km or 4-5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification). Flush every 2 years.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW approved ATF or Pentosin CHF 11S (depending on system type, refer to manual). Check level regularly.
Engine M40:
Potential for head gasket leaks, worn valve stem seals leading to oil consumption, and timing belt tensioner issues. Regular belt replacement is paramount.
Rust:
Prone to rust in common E30 areas: jacking points, rear wheel arches, front fenders, sunroof drains, and battery tray.
Electrical:
Fraying wiring harness insulation (especially around engine bay and door hinges), faulty headlight relays, and dashboard illumination issues.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and rear trailing arm bushings are common wear items affecting handling and ride quality.
Oil Filter Part Number:
e.g., Mann-Filter W917/2 or equivalent BMW P/N 11 42 1 730 917
Air Filter Part Number:
e.g., Mann-Filter C2533 or equivalent BMW P/N 13 72 1 730 979
Spark Plug Part Number:
e.g., NGK BKR6EK or BMW P/N 12 12 1 743 096
Timing Belt Kit Part Number:
e.g., Gates K015473xs or equivalent BMW P/N 11 31 1 417 146 (belt, tensioner, idler)
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, sporty, and well-engineered vehicles.
E30 Introduction:
The E30 generation was introduced in 1982 as the successor to the E21. It significantly refined the design and engineering of the 3 Series.
E30 Facelift:
The E30 underwent a significant facelift in 1987, which included revised bumpers, body trim, and updated interior features, relevant to the 1988-1991 range.
Production Period:
1982-1994 (global, with variations by market and body style)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary production in Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), with some assembly in other international locations.
