Segment:
Executive Sedan / Luxury Mid-size Car
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking performance, luxury, and build quality
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100, Jaguar XJ, Volvo 700 Series
Vehicle Philosophy:
'The Ultimate Driving Machine', emphasizing handling, engineering, and driver engagement
Model Highlights:
Sophisticated engineering, comfortable ride, robust build quality, rear-wheel-drive dynamics
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Workshop
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics
Estimated Page Count:
Variable (typically 500+ pages for comprehensive BMW E28 manuals)
Type:
Workshop Manual / Service Manual
Format:
Likely PDF or physical print (description implies a comprehensive document)
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, timing, lubrication, cooling
Engine Management:
Fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), ignition system, emissions control, sensors, actuators, diagnostic codes
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission service, overhaul, clutch, torque converter, fluid changes
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, rear axle assembly
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, bushings, alignment
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, ABS (if equipped), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, instrumentation, fuses, relays, electric windows, central locking
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, interior trim, glass replacement, door mechanisms, structural components
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service and repair
Preventative Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based problem solving
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step guides for component removal, installation, and repair
Diagnostics:
Inspection procedures, testing of electrical components and systems
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds
File Format:
If PDF, often searchable text and high-resolution diagrams
Diagram Quality:
High-quality, detailed schematics and illustrations are typical for BMW manuals
Binding Type:
If printed: Perfect bound, spiral bound, or comb bound for workshop durability
Paper Type:
If printed: Durable, often glossy or semi-gloss paper to withstand workshop conditions
Engine Code:
M30B34 (for 518i variant, often confused with larger displacement M30 engines, 518i typically had a 1.8L M10 engine or a 2.0L M20 derivative depending on market. Clarification needed for exact 518 designation, assuming M10 for 518 and potentially M20 for 518i in some markets. The manual *should* clarify this.)
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder (for 518), Inline-6 Cylinder (for potential 518i variant or mislabeling, E28 520i used M20B20. 518 models were typically M10 based. The manual will specify if it covers multiple engine variants for the '518' designation.)
Displacement:
Approx. 1.8 Liters (1766 cc for M10 variant) or 2.0 Liters (for M20 variant if designated as 518i in specific markets)
Bore X Stroke:
Example for M10B18: 89.0 mm x 71.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
Example for M10B18: 8.3:1 or higher depending on variant
Horsepower:
Approx. 90-105 hp (for 1.8L M10), up to 125 hp for 2.0L M20 variant
Torque:
Approx. 140-160 Nm (for 1.8L M10), up to 174 Nm for 2.0L M20 variant
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 91/95 recommended)
Coolant Type:
BMW coolant/antifreeze (e.g., BMW Blue or G48 equivalent) mixed with distilled water
Type:
4-speed manual (Getrag 245) or 5-speed manual (Getrag 260)
Type:
3-speed automatic (ZF 3HP22) or 4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Clutch Type:
Dry single-plate clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF Dexron III 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. 2774 mm (109.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs) depending on options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 1800-1900 kg
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data available for this specific year/model from common agencies like NHTSA/IIHS, but E28 chassis known for robust build.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models
Traction Control:
Not typically available on these base models
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts (front), lap belts (rear)
Airbags:
Not standard or typically available in 1986
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional premium sound system (e.g., Nakamichi or Blaupunkt).
Controls:
Analog knobs and buttons for climate control and audio.
Cruise Control:
Optional electronic cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors not available; rely on rearview mirrors.
Connectivity Features:
None; designed for an era before widespread digital connectivity.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months (BMW's original recommendations might be shorter, e.g., 5,000 miles for older vehicles).
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (often at 30,000 miles).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 - 40,000 miles (depending on type, e.g., platinum plugs could extend this).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on ambient temperature).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Common Wear Items:
Eccentric shaft sensors (if fuel injected and equipped), fuel pump, coolant hoses, fuel lines, suspension bushings (control arm, sway bar), front strut mounts, brake component wear (rotors, pads).
Electrical Issues:
Corrosion in connectors, aging wiring harness insulation, faulty relays, speedometer drive gear wear.
Engine Specific:
M10 engine: Oil leaks from oil pan gasket, valve cover gasket. M20 engine (if applicable): Head gasket issues, timing belt service critical. Fuel injection system: Clogged injectors, faulty fuel pressure regulator.
Brand Focus:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) known for performance, luxury, and engineering excellence since 1916.
Generation:
Second generation 5 Series (E28), succeeded the E12 and was replaced by the E34.
Production Years:
E28 Series produced from 1981 to 1988. The 1986 model is well within this generation.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany. Some assembly may have occurred in other locations globally.
