Target Audience:
BMW E28 528i owners and enthusiasts seeking to perform maintenance, repairs, or a deeper understanding of their vehicle's mechanics.
Differentiation:
Provides specific, make-model-year coverage, avoiding generic content. Focuses on detailed workshop procedures and electrical diagrams essential for this era of BMW.
Features:
Easy-to-follow instructions, step-by-step diagrams, comprehensive coverage of all repair and maintenance aspects, electrical diagrams, fluid capacities, troubleshooting.
Applicable Years:
1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988
Engine Variants Covered:
2.8L Inline-6 (M30B28)
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds (specific count not provided, but comprehensive)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Engine:
Engine overhaul, rebuilding, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, fuel system, cooling system
Drivetrain:
Clutch, transmission (manual and automatic), sub-transmission (if applicable), gearshift linkage, driveshaft, differential
Suspension Steering:
Front wheel and suspension, rear wheel and suspension, steering system components
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, brake system components, bleeding procedures
Electrical:
Battery and charging system, ignition system, electric starter, switches, wiring diagrams, lighting, accessories
Body Chassis:
Bodywork repair (implied), chassis components
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, lubrication, inspection, adjustments, fluid changes
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, engine rebuilding, component overhauls
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, identification of common problems and solutions
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed electrical diagrams for fault finding and repair, re-wiring procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive workshop level, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2788 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 181 hp @ 5800 rpm (European spec), 169 hp (US spec)
Torque:
Approx. 230 Nm (169 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm (European spec), 225 Nm (166 lb-ft) (US spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection (depending on year and market)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled
Crash Test Results:
Era-specific safety standards. E28 known for robust construction for its time. (Note: Modern standardized crash test data may not be directly comparable or readily available).
Brakes:
Front: Ventilated Disc, Rear: Solid Disc. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available as an option on later models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts
Construction:
Reinforced passenger cell, energy-absorbing steering column.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette stereo with optional amplifier and speakers.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control).
ABS:
Optional ABS on later models.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB)
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Spark Plugs:
Check at ~20,000 miles, replace as needed (depending on plug type, platinum/iridium can last longer).
Timing Belt Chain:
M30 engines use a timing chain, which requires inspection for wear but not regular replacement like a belt.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 recommended (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol based), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (always check manual for exact specification).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent (check specific ZF transmission requirements).
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel distributor issues (Bosch), electrical connector corrosion, seized brake calipers, differential seal leaks, sunroof drain blockages.
Maintenance Focus:
Proactive maintenance of cooling and fuel injection systems is crucial for reliability.
Heritage:
BMW, known for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, has a long history of producing sophisticated and performance-oriented sedans.
Predecessor:
E12 (first generation 5 Series)
Successor:
E34 (third generation 5 Series)
Production Years:
1981-1988
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing plant primarily)
Automotive Press:
The E28 generation was highly regarded by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and refined interior, often praised for bridging the gap between comfort and sportiness.
Comparisons:
Consistently competed favorably against contemporaries like the Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class and Audi 100/200.
