Market Position:
The BMW 5 Series (E28) represented BMW's executive sedan offering in the early to mid-1980s, positioned as a premium, sporty, and technologically advanced alternative to its German and American rivals. The 518i, as the entry-level model, provided the quintessential BMW driving experience at a more accessible price point, targeting professionals and driving enthusiasts who valued performance and refinement.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with models such as the Mercedes-Benz W123/W124, Audi 100, Volvo 740, and Lincoln Town Car. The E28 was often lauded for its superior handling dynamics and driver engagement compared to some competitors.
Key Features:
Rear-wheel drive, independent suspension, sophisticated engine management for its time, driver-oriented ergonomics, build quality synonymous with BMW.
Coverage Areas:
All Models, All Engines, All Trim Levels, All Transmission Types
Estimated Page Count:
Approx. 1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era, specific number varies by edition)
Manual Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Engine:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Management (EFI), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System
Transmission:
Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Clutch System, Drive Axles, Driveshaft
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Disc Brakes, Parking Brake, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Fuses and Relays
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), Rear Suspension (Semi-trailing arms), Steering System (Recirculating ball steering box/rack and pinion), Power Steering
Body Chassis:
Body Structure, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Glass, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Chassis Components
Climate Control:
Heating System, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (if equipped)
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Adjustments/Replacement, Fluid Level Checks and Top-offs
Repair Procedures:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Body Panel Repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Charts, Symptom-based Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Interpretation (if applicable to the EFI system)
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Tolerances, Alignment Data, Electrical Resistance Values
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance and basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls, complex electrical diagnostics, and structural repairs.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated
Displacement:
1.8 liters (1766 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.0 mm x 71.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.3:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
90 PS (90 bhp / 66 kW) at 5800 rpm (DIN)
Torque:
140 Nm (103 lb-ft) at 3700 rpm (DIN)
Fuel Injection:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic (depending on specific build date and market)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91 or higher)
Crash Test Ratings:
NHTSA: Not explicitly rated for this specific model year and trim in historical databases, but E28 generally performed well for its era due to robust construction.
Active Features:
Four-wheel disc brakes, independent suspension for stable handling.
Passive Features:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones, padded interior surfaces, three-point seatbelts (front), optional seatbelts for rear passengers, laminated front windshield.
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, analog instrumentation.
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on later models, power steering. No advanced electronic driver aids common in modern vehicles.
Connectivity Features:
None (vehicle era predates widespread automotive connectivity).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (recommendation based on manual coverage).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 20,000 miles (24,000 - 32,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 40,000 miles (48,000 - 64,000 km) (depending on plug type, e.g., standard vs. platinum)
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (M10 engine uses a timing chain)
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (refer to manual for exact viscosity based on ambient temperature and specific engine condition)
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III/Mercon (equivalent for ZF HP22)
Known Issues:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket, fuel distributor issues (L-Jetronic), idle control valve problems, vacuum hose degradation, radiator and cooling fan issues, strut mount wear, subframe bushing deterioration, rust in common areas (wheel wells, rocker panels, door bottoms).
Brand Heritage:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused, high-performance luxury vehicles since its inception in 1916.
Model Evolution:
The E28 generation succeeded the E12 5 Series, introducing updated styling, improved aerodynamics, enhanced safety features, and more advanced engine technology. It was the first 5 Series to offer an optional diesel engine and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Production Years:
1981-1988
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (primarily Dingolfing)
