Segment:
Compact Luxury Sports Sedan/Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, BMW owners seeking detailed service information.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E (W201), Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra XR4i, Opel Monza.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for balanced handling, rear-wheel drive, well-tuned suspension, and engaging driving experience.
Convertible Appeal:
Iconic design, excellent chassis rigidity for its era, functional convertible top mechanism.
Engineering Philosophy:
German engineering excellence, build quality, driver-centric design.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing belt, valve train, oil pump, oil cooler, lubrication system.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, sensors (crankshaft position, camshaft position, throttle position, airflow meter, coolant temperature, O2 sensor), actuators, ECU diagnostics.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch assembly, gear selection, shift linkage, gearbox overhaul, gear ratios, output shaft, input shaft, synchromesh components.
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, hydraulic control system, valve body, planetary gear sets, transmission fluid service, torque converter lock-up clutch.
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, universal joints, constant velocity joints, rear differential, limited-slip differential (if equipped), axle shafts.
Suspension:
Front strut assembly, rear trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, anti-roll bars, wheel bearings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Steering rack, power steering pump, hydraulic lines, steering column, tie rods, steering knuckle, alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, brake calipers, brake pads, brake rotors, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid, bleeding procedures, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams for all circuits, fuses, relays, lighting system, horn, wipers, power windows, central locking.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, convertible top operation and repair, interior trim, dashboard, seats, HVAC system (heater core, A/C components, blower motor).
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator.
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant hoses, coolant reservoir, cooling fan (electric/mechanical).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, differential fluid change, transmission fluid change.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable for the era), electrical troubleshooting guides.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major systems.
Overhaul Procedures:
Comprehensive instructions for complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Specification Adjustments:
Valve lash adjustment, ignition timing setting, fuel pressure adjustments, suspension alignment.
Convertible Top Service:
Hydraulic and mechanical system maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of the soft top mechanism.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: covers everything from basic fluid changes to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
References diagnostic procedures and test points, may require basic multimeter and logic probe for older systems.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners and assemblies.
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specific measurement requirements for critical engine and drivetrain components.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, often color-coded, wiring diagrams for all vehicle electrical systems.
Transmission Type Standard:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate diaphragm spring clutch (manual)
Gear Ratios Manual Example:
1st: 3.75, 2nd: 2.13, 3rd: 1.40, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.81, Reverse: 3.75 (approximate, may vary slightly by specific model/year)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., SAE 75W-90 GL-4)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF TE-ML 09 or Dexron II/III equivalent
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Check manual for precise recommendation.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 20,000-30,000 miles (30,000-50,000 km).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: Every 50,000-60,000 miles (80,000-100,000 km) or 5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years or as per manual, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40, API SG or higher. Consult manual for specific BMW approvals and viscosity for climate.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II/III or Pentosin CHF 7.1 (check specific reservoir cap/manual).
Common Mechanical Issues:
Cracked exhaust manifolds, worn engine mounts, coolant leaks (especially heater core and hose connections), fuel pump failure, starter motor failure, differential mount cracking, subframe cracking (rear), seized sway bar links.
Common Electrical Issues:
Failing instrument cluster illumination/gauges, door lock actuators, window regulators, alternator diode failure, fuse box corrosion, ABS sensor failures.
Common Convertible Top Issues:
Leaking seals, hydraulic cylinder leaks or failures, frayed cables, motor failure, canvas degradation, sticking mechanism.
Common Body Issues:
Rust, particularly around wheel arches, rocker panels, jacking points, and battery tray area. Worn door seals leading to water ingress.
