Reputation:
Known for performance, luxury, and build quality.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124, Audi V8, Jaguar XJ.
Powertrain:
Inline-six M30 engine, rear-wheel drive.
Design:
Iconic E28 chassis, refined luxury interior.
Performance Variant:
M535i offered enhanced performance and sportier tuning.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management (ECU), emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, overhaul, and adjustments.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs, bushings.
Steering:
Steering gear, power steering system, steering column, tie rods.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake calipers, master cylinder, brake pads, rotors, lines.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, electronic control units (ECUs), sensors.
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, seats, HVAC system.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter.
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil pan, oil filter, oil specifications.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, scheduled service intervals, oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common problem identification.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components.
Overhaul:
Engine and transmission overhaul procedures, rebuilding guides.
Diagnostics:
Component testing, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical system diagnostics.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
User Level:
Suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
3.4L (3430 cc) Inline-6, SOHC, 12 Valves
Bore X Stroke:
92 mm x 86 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 or 9.0:1 (depending on market/variant)
Horsepower 535I:
182 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque 535I:
220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
Horsepower M535I:
218 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque M535I:
232 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, premium octane recommended.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 30,000 miles for M30 engines.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable, M30 engine uses a timing chain.
Engine Oil:
SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 API SG, or BMW High Performance engine oil (check manual for exact grade).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW Coolant.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III ATF.
Common Problems:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), cooling system leaks (hoses, water pump, radiator), seized alternator pulleys, aging wiring harnesses, fuel distributor issues (L-Jetronic), differential seal leaks, front control arm bushings wear.
M30 Engine Notes:
M30 engine is robust but requires diligent maintenance; timing chain tensioner can fail if not serviced.