Era Positioning:
Represents BMW's mid-size executive sedan offering in the 1980s, known for sporty handling and luxury appointments.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ Series, Volvo 700 Series.
Design Philosophy:
Iconic 'Hofmeister kink' on the C-pillar, balanced weight distribution, driver-focused interior.
Technical Highlights:
Sophisticated independent suspension, robust inline-six engines, rear-wheel drive.
Value:
An indispensable tool for maintaining and repairing the classic BMW E28 525i, providing factory-accurate information to preserve its performance and longevity.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System, Drivetrain (Driveshafts, Differential)
Electrical:
Lighting, Instrumentation, Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Body Electrics, ECU Diagnostics
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Seats, Trim, HVAC System
Emissions:
Emission Control Systems and Information
Maintenance:
Periodic Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections
Repair:
Component Disassembly, Reassembly, Adjustment, Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Finding Charts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed Electrical Schematics
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)
Audience:
Do-It-Yourselfers and Professional Mechanics
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Engine Code:
M30B25 (most common for 525i in this period)
Displacement:
2494 cc (2.5 Liters)
Horsepower Estimate:
Approximately 150-170 hp (depending on market and specific tune)
Torque Estimate:
Approximately 205-210 Nm (151-155 lb-ft)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium)
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled
Oil Type Recommendation:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grades (e.g., 20W-50, 10W-40 depending on climate)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (e.g., Hall Effect Sensor, Distributer)
Type:
4-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/5 or similar) or 3-Speed Automatic (ZF 3HP22)
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/5)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil (e.g., GL-4 specification)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific ATF type (e.g., Dexron III or equivalent)
Length Approx:
4700-4750 mm (185-187 in)
Width Approx:
1700-1720 mm (67-68 in)
Height Approx:
1400-1420 mm (55-56 in)
Curb Weight Approx:
1350-1450 kg (2976-3197 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approx:
1850-1950 kg (4079-4299 lbs)
Trunk Capacity Approx:
450-470 Liters (16-17 cu ft)
Crash Test Era:
Pre-modern crash test standards; focus on passive safety design.
Braking System:
Front Ventilated Disc Brakes, Rear Solid Disc Brakes
Anti Lock Brakes:
Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on later models.
Airbags:
No factory-installed airbags on early models; optional driver airbag available on later E28s.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts in front and rear
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Refer to manual; often around 30,000 miles for standard plugs.
Timing Belt Chain:
M30 engines use a timing chain, requiring inspection but generally not replacement unless worn.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (blue or green, BMW specific recommended)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Refer to manual; typically ATF or Pentosin CHF 11S for later models.
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel injector issues, front suspension wear (bushings, ball joints), fuel pump failure, rust (wheel wells, rockers).
Electrical Gremlins:
Frayed wiring harnesses, failing relays, instrument cluster issues are not uncommon in older vehicles.
Preventative Maintenance:
Regularly check and replace coolant hoses, inspect the fuel system for leaks, and maintain proper cooling system pressure.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's reputation for building the 'Ultimate Driving Machine' solidified with the E28 generation.
Predecessor:
E12 5-Series
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing), South Africa, and assembly in other countries.
Production Volume Estimate:
Over 700,000 units produced globally across all E28 variants.
