🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

318i

Chassis Code:

E30

Platform:

E30

Body Styles Covered:

Sedan (2-door, 4-door), Convertible, Coupe, Touring (Wagon)

Engine Code:

M10B18

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Entry-level luxury compact sedan and coupe

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and owners seeking to maintain and repair their classic BMW E30 models.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Volvo 240, Ford Sierra, Opel Vectra (depending on market)

Vehicle Reputation:

Known for its balanced handling, robust engineering, and driver-focused experience, a benchmark in its class.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential technical information for the DIY owner to maintain and repair one of BMW's most iconic and beloved models.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Years:

1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991

Specific Models Covered:

BMW 318i (E30)

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, timing, valve adjustments, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system

Engine Management:

Fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), ignition system, sensors, actuators, ECU diagnosis and repair

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shift linkage, driveshaft, differential

Transmission Automatic:

Overhaul, control systems, fluid and filter changes (if applicable to specific E30 318i variants)

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or discs depending on variant), hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), parking brake

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering knuckles, wheel bearings

Steering:

Steering rack, power steering system (if equipped), tie rods, steering column

Electrical System:

Battery, starter, alternator, lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, dashboard instruments, horn, wipers, power windows

Body And Chassis:

Body shell construction, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, sound deadening

Climate Control:

HVAC system, heater core, blower motor, A/C system (if equipped), refrigerant handling

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based fault finding for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for complete engine disassembly, inspection, measurement, and reassembly

Drivetrain Repair:

Transmission, clutch, driveshaft, and differential repairs

Brake System Overhaul:

Caliper, master cylinder, wheel cylinder, and line replacement/repair

Suspension And Steering Rebuild:

Replacement of bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, and steering components

Electrical Diagnostics:

Tracing circuits, testing components, interpreting wiring diagrams

Body Panel Repair:

Procedures for dent removal, panel alignment, and rust repair (may be less detailed than specialized body manuals)

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.

Diagnostic Tools:

Details required diagnostic tools, torque specifications, alignment procedures, and electrical testing methods.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF (standard for modern digital manuals)

Print Quality:

Digital, quality dependent on original scan/creation. Typically includes diagrams and illustrations.

Binding Type:

Not applicable (digital format)

Paper Type:

Not applicable (digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated

Engine Code:

M10B18

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1766 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

89.0 mm x 71.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1 to 9.5:1 (depending on specific model/market)

Horsepower:

Approximately 100-105 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm (depending on market and injection system)

Torque:

Approximately 105-110 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 rpm (depending on market and injection system)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic (early models) or Bosch Motronic (later models) electronic fuel injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 AKI / 91 RON recommended)

Ignition Type:

Electronic ignition (distributor-based)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific climate recommendations)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.0 liters (7.4 US quarts)

Coolant Type:

50/50 mix of BMW blue coolant or equivalent and distilled water

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed Manual (Getrag 245)

Transmission Type Optional:

3-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single dry plate

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-III or equivalent

Rear Axle Ratio:

Typically 3.64:1 or 3.91:1 (depending on transmission and market)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2570 mm (101.2 in)

Length:

4325-4340 mm (170.3-170.9 in)

Width:

1675-1700 mm (65.9-66.9 in)

Height:

1370-1380 mm (53.9-54.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1150-1250 kg (2535-2755 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1600 kg (3527 lbs)

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 440 liters (15.5 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

NHTSA ratings not readily available for this era; generally considered safe for its time due to BMW's engineering focus.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes (later models) or front discs/rear drums, optional ABS (on some later models)

Passive Safety Features:

Reinforced passenger cell, padded dashboard and steering wheel, three-point seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic analog radio (AM/FM), optional cassette player. Aftermarket head units are common upgrades.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited; optional ABS on later models. Primarily focused on mechanical feedback and driver control.

Connectivity Options:

None (no provisions for Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration from the factory).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first (check manual for precise recommendation based on driving conditions).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on environment.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on plug type (standard or platinum).

Coolant Flush:

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

Brake Fluid Flush:

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

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron-III or Pentosin CHF 11S (verify specific vehicle requirement)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Common Issues Engine:

Worn valve stem seals (blue smoke on startup), oil leaks from oil pan gasket and valve cover gasket, coolant hose failures, thermostat issues.

Common Issues Suspension:

Worn rear trailing arm bushings (causes wheel hop and imprecise handling), worn front control arm bushings, leaking front struts.

Common Issues Electrical:

Corroded grounds, failing alternator, intermittent instrument cluster issues, worn fuel pump relays.

Common Issues Body:

Rust in common E30 areas: jacking points, rear wheel arches, battery tray, trunk floor, door bottoms.

Common Issues Fuel System:

Clogged fuel injectors, failing fuel pump, deteriorating fuel lines.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

BMW's reputation for building driver-centric, high-quality sporting sedans and coupes, originating from their motorcycle and aircraft engine roots.

E30 Introduction:

The E30 platform, launched in 1982, was the second generation of the 3 Series and a significant evolution from the E21. It established BMW's dominance in the compact executive segment.

318I Positioning:

The 318i served as the entry-level model in many markets, offering a more affordable entry into BMW ownership while retaining the core E30 driving dynamics.

Production Years:

E30: 1982-1994 (318i variants specifically within the 1983-1991 timeframe of the manual)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary production in Dingolfing, Germany, with assembly plants in various other countries.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

While the 318i specifically may not have had individual awards, the E30 platform as a whole received numerous accolades and was frequently cited by automotive journalists as a benchmark for handling and driver engagement in its class.

Driving Dynamics Rating:

Universally praised for its exceptional balance, steering feel, and responsive chassis.