Target Audience:
Professional mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, and BMW collectors seeking in-depth repair and maintenance information for the E28 518i.
Value Proposition:
Provides dealership-level technical information, empowering users to perform complex repairs and maintenance accurately and efficiently.
Comparison To Alternatives:
Superior to generic Haynes or Chilton manuals due to its official workshop origin, offering greater detail, accuracy, and specific BMW technical data.
Authenticity:
Identical to manuals provided to official BMW dealerships, ensuring the highest level of accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Diagnostic Focus:
Emphasizes systematic troubleshooting, enabling users to diagnose and fix issues effectively.
Visual Guidance:
Rich with detailed diagrams and illustrations crucial for understanding complex procedures and component locations.
Coverage:
Complete workshop service and repair for BMW 518i (E28) models from 1985 to 1988.
Page Count:
Extensive (Exact count not provided, described as detailed instructions and step-by-step diagrams for all workshop procedures).
Manual Type:
Professional Workshop Service & Repair Manual
Language:
English (Implied by description and common availability of BMW manuals).
Format:
Downloadable (Digital format, likely PDF).
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control.
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differentials, axles.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (MacPherson struts, independent rear suspension), steering system (rack and pinion), power steering.
Brake Systems:
Front and rear disc brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped on later models).
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, dashboard controls, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, ECU.
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, bumpers, chassis components, corrosion protection.
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (if equipped).
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, belt adjustments, brake pad replacement, general inspections.
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, bodywork repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault finding for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues.
Disassembly Assembly:
Step-by-step guides for component removal and reinstallation with torque specifications.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering all workshop procedures from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, identical to dealer documentation.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting guides for identifying and resolving common and complex faults.
Diagrams Illustrations:
High-quality, step-by-step diagrams and illustrations for visual guidance on all procedures.
Digital Format:
PDF (assumed for downloadability, enabling searchability and bookmarking).
Quality Description:
Professional quality, mirroring original dealer workshop manuals. High-resolution diagrams and clear text.
Binding:
Not applicable for downloadable format. If a physical product were sold, it would typically be a professionally bound book.
Paper Quality:
Not applicable for downloadable format. Original manuals would use durable paper suitable for workshop environments.
Engine Code:
M10B18 (typically)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated
Displacement:
1.8 liters (1766 cc)
Horsepower Output:
Approx. 90-99 PS (66-73 kW) depending on market and tuning.
Torque Output:
Approx. 140-145 Nm (103-107 lb-ft) depending on market and tuning.
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or LE-Jetronic fuel injection.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 95/98 recommended).
Ignition Type:
Electronic ignition (e.g., Bremi or Bosch).
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled, thermostatically controlled fan.
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.25 liters (4.5 US quarts) with filter change.
Oil Viscosity:
Typically 10W-40 or 15W-40, depending on climate and specific BMW recommendations.
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed manual transmission (Getrag 245).
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (ZF 3HP22).
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 GL-4 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent) ATF fluid.
Length:
Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs) depending on equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 1800-1900 kg (3968-4189 lbs).
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 480 liters (16.9 cubic feet).
Crash Test Info:
Specific crash test ratings for the 1985-1988 518i E28 are not readily available in modern formats, but the E28 chassis was known for its structural integrity for its era.
ABS:
Optional on later E28 models, including some 518i variants. The manual will detail its function and maintenance if equipped.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts in the front, two-point lap belts in the rear.
Head Restraints:
Front head restraints standard.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones front and rear, side impact protection beams.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player. Options for upgraded speakers and amplifier. Manual will cover basic diagnostics and component replacement.
ABS:
As noted in safety, ABS was an optional feature. The manual will detail its operation and troubleshooting.
Diagnostic Ports:
Proprietary BMW diagnostic connectors for engine management and ABS systems (if equipped). Manual will detail connector pinouts and basic diagnostic procedures.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. The manual will specify exact intervals.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Generally around 30,000-40,000 km (20,000-25,000 miles). Manual will specify correct plug type and gap.
Timing Belt Chain:
The M10B18 engine features a timing chain, which is designed for the life of the engine but requires inspection for wear and tensioner function.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify which is most appropriate for ABS if equipped.
Engine Common Issues:
Idle control valve issues, vacuum leaks, injector seal leaks, coolant leaks from the thermostat housing or hoses, oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan.
Electrical Common Issues:
Corroded grounds, failing dashboard instruments, headlamp switch issues, aging wiring harnesses.
Suspension Common Issues:
Worn control arm bushings, worn ball joints, sagging springs, worn shock absorbers.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, door bottoms, trunk lid edges, battery tray area.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for building sporty, driver-focused sedans with excellent handling and engineering.
E28 Lineage:
Successor to the E12 and predecessor to the E34. The E28 represented a significant advancement in BMW's mid-size luxury sedan offerings, emphasizing performance, comfort, and technology.
518I Positioning:
The 518i was the entry-level model in many markets, offering BMW quality and driving dynamics at a more accessible price point, often targeting economy-conscious buyers.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced at BMW's Dingolfing plant in Germany. CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits were also exported for assembly in various international locations.
Production Volume:
The E28 series overall saw significant production numbers, with the 518i being a popular variant in its target markets.
