Positioning:
Entry-level luxury sedan within BMW's E28 5 Series lineup, offering a balance of performance and efficiency.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W123 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Volvo 240/740, Jaguar XJ6.
Chassis Design:
E28 platform known for its refined handling, independent suspension, and driver-focused cockpit.
Engine Choice:
Focus on the reliable M10 four-cylinder engine, providing good fuel economy for the executive segment.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides critical repair and maintenance data for enthusiasts and professional mechanics working on this classic BMW.
Primary Coverage:
BMW 518 (E28) and 518i (E28)
Secondary Coverage:
General E28 chassis information applicable to related models
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided, but implied comprehensive)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine (M10 based), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Clutch, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles
Suspension Steering:
Front and Rear Suspension, Steering System, Power Steering
Brakes:
Front and Rear Brakes (Disc/Drum), Parking Brake, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams
Body Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Chassis Components
Climate Control:
HVAC System, Air Conditioning, Heating
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (where applicable)
Repair:
Component removal and installation, adjustments, rebuilding procedures
Overhaul:
Engine, transmission, and differential overhaul procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid checks to full engine rebuilds and electrical system diagnostics
Engine Code:
M10 (Specific variant for 518/518i)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Cam)
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 90-100 hp (depending on specific market tune and fuel injection/carburetion)
Torque:
Approx. 100-110 lb-ft (depending on specific market tune)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection (for 518i) or Carburetor (for 518)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91 or higher recommended)
Type:
Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based)
Type:
Water-cooled, Pressurized system
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter
Type:
4-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 245)
Type:
3-speed ZF Automatic Transmission (e.g., ZF 3HP22)
Clutch:
Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF Type Dexron III/Mercon (or equivalent)
Length:
Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 1800-1900 kg (3968-4189 lbs)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 470 Liters (16.6 cu ft)
Historical Ratings:
No specific standardized crash test ratings from modern agencies available for this era. Known for robust construction.
Braking:
Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes (some later models or specific markets may have rear discs).
Steering:
Recirculating ball or rack-and-pinion steering (depending on early E28 variations), often with power assist.
Restraints:
Three-point seatbelts (front and rear), optional headrests.
Chassis Safety:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Radio:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player (optional, depending on trim and market).
Speakers:
Basic speaker setup, typically 4-6 speakers.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher-spec models or as an option, not standard on the 518/518i.
Features:
No electronic connectivity features as understood today. Basic diagnostic port for engine management if fuel injected.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-24,000 miles)
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended. Synthetic 5W-40 for colder climates.
Coolant:
BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket, timing chain wear (less common on M10), cooling system component failure (hoses, thermostat).
Electrical:
Degradation of wiring insulation, failing headlight relays, intermittent issues with the dashboard warning lights and gauges.
Chassis Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, tie rod ends, shock absorbers, and sway bar links. Rear subframe mounts can degrade.
Body Rust:
Rust is a significant concern, particularly around wheel arches, rocker panels, door bottoms, and jacking points.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's reputation for building driver-centric, sporty, yet comfortable executive sedans.
E28 Introduction:
The E28 generation replaced the E12 5 Series and was produced from 1981 to 1988. The 518 and 518i were entry-level models in this lineup.
518 Market Segment:
Targeted markets where fuel economy and lower purchase price were priorities, often Europe.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany, with some assembly in other global locations.
Key Changes 1983:
Model year 1983 saw continued refinement of the E28 platform; the 518i variant introduced more advanced fuel injection over the carbureted 518.
