Vehicle Market Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W201 190E, Audi 80/90, Volvo 240, Alfa Romeo 75
Vehicle Design Philosophy:
Focus on driving dynamics, build quality, and a sportier executive image compared to competitors
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth, factory-level repair information, crucial for maintaining and restoring these classic BMWs, offering a significant cost saving over dealership servicing.
Manual Quality Statement:
Distinguishes itself from incomplete or low-quality manuals by offering comprehensive, verified factory-level procedures, ensuring accuracy and completeness for DIY mechanics and professional technicians alike.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system
Transmission Systems:
Manual and automatic transmission service, overhaul, and adjustments
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, driveshafts, differential, rear axle assembly
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, hydraulic brake system (ABS coverage if applicable), parking brake
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting system, instrument cluster, electronic control units (ECU), diagnostics
Body Interior HVAC:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt tensioning, fluid checks and changes, brake pad replacement
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (where applicable), diagnostic connector usage
Component Repair Overhaul:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement
Electrical Diagnostics Repair:
Wiring harness repair, component testing, sensor replacement, ECU diagnostics
Body And Trim:
Panel alignment, door mechanism repair, glass replacement, interior trim panel removal and installation
Depth Of Coverage:
Detailed mechanical and electrical repair procedures, diagnostic strategies, specifications, torque values, and schematics
Digital File Type:
PDF (Searchable Text Preferred)
Digital Image Resolution:
High resolution for clear diagrams and text
Digital Format Advantage:
No binding; easily searchable and printable
Digital Format Equivalent:
N/A (Digital) - Equivalent to high-quality technical paper if printed
Engine Family:
BMW M20 Inline-6
Engine Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1990 cc)
Engine Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Horsepower Rating:
Approximately 125-129 hp (DIN) depending on exact market and tune
Torque Rating:
Approximately 175-180 Nm (129-133 lb-ft) at around 4300 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch LE-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection (depending on specific year and market)
Fuel Type Requirement:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (Octane rating dependent on market)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic (specific variant varies)
Standard Transmission Type:
Getrag 260 5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch
Body Styles Offered:
2-door Sedan, 4-door Sedan, Convertible, (rarely) Touring Wagon (E30 Touring not primarily in US market)
Wheelbase Sedan:
Approx. 2621 mm (103.2 in)
Length Sedan:
Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 in)
Curb Weight Sedan Manual:
Approx. 1250 kg (2755 lbs)
Crash Test Information Era:
Older vehicle, formal crash ratings from this era are less comprehensive than modern standards. Known for robust build quality of its time.
Optional ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on later models and certain trims
Standard Safety Features:
Seat belts, reinforced passenger cell, energy-absorbing steering column
Infotainment System Era:
Basic for its time: Analog gauges, optional cassette/radio units. No advanced infotainment systems.
Available Driver Aids:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was the primary electronic driver assistance feature available.
Connectivity Features:
None by modern standards (e.g., no Bluetooth, USB, or Wi-Fi). Basic antenna for radio.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-10,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact spec)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Every 60,000-80,000 km (40,000-50,000 miles); Automatic: Every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-40,000 miles) (refer to manual)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as specified in manual
Engine Oil Type Grade:
Refer to manual, typically synthetic or semi-synthetic 5W-40 or 10W-40 depending on climate
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Ethylene Glycol based coolant or equivalent
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil specification
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Refer to manual for specific ZF fluid type (e.g., LT-2 or equivalent)
Common Wear Items:
Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, coolant hoses, fuel lines, rear subframe mounts, strut mounts, window regulators, door seals.
Engine Specific Concerns:
Head gasket leaks (particularly on higher mileage engines), timing chain tensioner wear, injector seals.
Electrical Concerns:
Fuse box corrosion, intermittent electrical connections, faulty engine sensors (e.g., MAF, TPS).
Chassis Concerns:
Rust (especially around wheel arches, rocker panels, jacking points), worn bushings, loose steering components.
Bmw Brand Identity:
Renowned for performance, engineering, and driver engagement ('The Ultimate Driving Machine')
E30 Generation Placement:
Second generation of the BMW 3 Series, a significant success that solidified BMW's reputation in the compact executive segment.
E30 Key Innovations:
Introduction of ABS, self-leveling suspension (optional), and a wider range of engine options including the iconic M3 variant (though this manual focuses on the 320i).
Production Period:
1982-1994 (E30 platform, with specific 320i variants and facelift changes occurring within the 1987-1991 window)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing)
