Segment:
Compact executive sedan.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and owners seeking to maintain or repair their E30 318i.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Volvo 240 Series, Alfa Romeo 75.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, and engaging driving experience.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW build quality of the era, known for durability.
Design:
Iconic BMW design language by Claus Luthe.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for the M40B18 engine.
Fuel System:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection system diagnostics, components, and service.
Ignition System:
Ignition timing, coil pack, spark plugs, and electronic control unit (ECU) diagnostics.
Transmission:
Repair and maintenance for the Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission; potential coverage for automatic transmission variants.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, differential, axles, and wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shocks, struts, and bushings.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, and steering column.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), front and rear disc brake service, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box layout, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, and accessory circuits.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnostics and repair.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and rust repair considerations.
Interior:
Seat removal, dashboard components, trim panels, and upholstery.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks: oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides and diagnostic flowcharts for common issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for major and minor components.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures.
Wiring:
Detailed electrical system troubleshooting using wiring diagrams.
Torque Specs:
Specific torque values for all critical fasteners.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics.
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1796 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84 mm x 81 mm
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 8 valves
Horsepower:
105 hp (78 kW) @ 5800 rpm
Torque:
145 Nm (107 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm
System:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 Octane minimum recommended)
Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters
Type:
Getrag 260 5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission (often denoted as '4HP22 EH' with electronic control)
Manual Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW G3 Transaxle Fluid or equivalent SAE 75W-90 GL-4 gear oil.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III ATF or equivalent.
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data readily available for this specific year/model from modern standards; historical safety expectations for the era.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often optional or standard depending on market and specific build date.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, 2-point rear seatbelts (typical for the era).
Chassis Design:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional premium sound systems available.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, engine temperature; warning lights.
ABS:
Availability as noted in safety section.
Connectivity Features:
None (vehicle of its era, no integrated Bluetooth or USB).
Oil Change:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 20,000 km (12,000 miles), replace as needed.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-25,000 miles).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 40,000 km (25,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (depending on climate). Refer to manual for precise spec.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Engine M40:
Timing belt stretching/failure (critical maintenance item), potential head gasket issues, oil leaks from seals.
Rust:
Common E30 rust points: strut towers, rocker panels, wheel wells, battery tray area.
Electrical:
Failing Motronic control units, aging wiring harnesses, headlight switch issues.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, rear trailing arm bushings.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos established in this era.
E30 Introduction:
The E30 platform was introduced in 1982, replacing the E21.
E30 318I Introduction:
The 318i variant, particularly with the M40 engine, became a key model in the later E30 production years, offering a balance of efficiency and performance.
Production Period E30:
1982-1991 (sedan), 1983-1991 (coupe/convertible), 1987-1991 (touring).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), with some production in South Africa, Austria, and Thailand.
