Segment:
Executive Mid-size Sedan
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and engineering prowess.
Key Competitors 1986:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Volvo 700 Series, Jaguar XJ6.
Design Philosophy:
The E28 generation represented a significant evolution for the BMW 5 Series, emphasizing driver engagement, refined engineering, and a focus on build quality.
Brand Emphasis:
The 518 and 518i models provided an entry point into BMW's premium sedan range, retaining the core driving dynamics and build quality associated with the brand.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valvetrain, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), ignition system, sensors, actuators, emission control systems.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Getrag 260 series), clutch system, driveline components (driveshaft, differential).
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings.
Steering:
Recirculating ball steering system, power steering components (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, ECU functions.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass, seals, structural components.
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC system components, blower motor, controls, ducting.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical system diagnostics.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, including component removal, overhaul, and reinstallation.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, including checking component operation, electrical measurements, and vacuum testing.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, alignment data, electrical resistance values, pressure readings.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail for diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and adjustment of all vehicle systems.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.0 mm x 71.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
90 hp @ 5500 rpm (518)
Horsepower Fuel Injection:
102 hp @ 5800 rpm (518i)
Torque:
130 Nm (96 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (518)
Torque Fuel Injection:
145 Nm (107 lb-ft) @ 3200 rpm (518i)
Fuel System 518:
Single Downdraft Carburetor (e.g., Solex 34/36 DFE)
Fuel System 518I:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per BMW specification for market)
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data available for this specific year and model due to differing regulatory standards of the era. E28 chassis generally considered robust for its time.
Braking System:
Power-assisted front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. ABS was optional on some later E28 models but less common on the 518/518i.
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point seatbelts, rear lap belts (standard).
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, energy-absorbing steering column.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (typical for this era).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 km (12,000 - 18,000 miles), depending on type.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 40,000 km (24,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
API SF/SG; Viscosity: SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 (depending on climate). Capacity: Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts).
Coolant:
BMW Premium Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent; 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ZF TE-ML 09 or DEXRON II
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF DEXRON II
Common Wear Items:
Suspension bushings (control arm, sway bar), fuel injectors (on 518i), fuel pumps, aging rubber hoses and seals, alternator brushes, starter motor wear, ignition components (points, condenser on older systems).
E28 Specifics:
Rust in common areas (wheel wells, rocker panels, around windows), instrument cluster illumination failures, headliner sagging, headlight wiper mechanisms.
