Positioning:
The BMW 518 (E28) represented BMW's commitment to offering a more accessible entry point into its executive sedan segment, balancing performance and luxury with pragmatic engineering. This manual caters to the needs of owners and technicians maintaining these sophisticated vehicles.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz W123 (later W124) E-Class, Audi 100, and Volvo 700 series. The E28 chassis was lauded for its driving dynamics and build quality.
Model Strengths:
Known for its refined handling, solid construction, and reliable drivetrain. The 518 was the entry-level model, often featuring the M10 engine variant, offering a balance of economy and BMW's characteristic performance.
Applicable Years:
1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985
Estimated Pages:
500-700 (estimated, based on typical service manual scope for this era)
Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF, likely) or Printed
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS if applicable to specific models within the range)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting and charging systems, instrumentation, power accessories
Body:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, climate control (HVAC)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, tune-up procedures
Repair:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnostics and repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, common fault identification and resolution
Diagnostics:
Component testing, circuit diagnosis, performance anomaly investigation
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major component overhauls and diagnostics. Suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Digital Format:
PDF (likely), often searchable text
Print Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory manuals, clear diagrams and text.
Binding Type:
N/A for digital, if printed: Spiral-bound or perfect bound for durability in workshop environments.
Paper Type:
N/A for digital, if printed: Heavy-duty, often laminated or coated paper for resistance to grease and moisture.
Engine Code:
M10 (likely variant: M10B18)
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, naturally aspirated
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 90-105 hp (depending on specific market and tune)
Torque:
Approx. 105-115 lb-ft (depending on specific market and tune)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or K-Jetronic fuel injection (depending on year and market)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (RON+MON)/2 or higher
Type:
4-speed manual transmission
Type:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (ZF 3HP22 or ZF 4HP22, respectively)
Clutch:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent (check specific model documentation for precise specification)
Length:
Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2795 mm (110.0 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 1800-1900 kg (3968-4189 lbs)
Crash Testing:
No specific official ratings like modern NHTSA/Euro NCAP, but E28 chassis designed with crumple zones and safety cage.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear. ABS was an option on later models or higher trims, but less common on the 518.
Steering System:
Recirculating ball steering, power assistance available as an option or standard on some models.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia reel seatbelts front, two-point lap belts rear.
Headrests:
Integrated or adjustable headrests on front seats.
Audio System:
Factory cassette player or radio, often with basic speaker configuration. Upgrades common.
ABS:
Optional on some models, typically later production. Manual will cover diagnosis and repair if equipped.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, crucial for troubleshooting and upgrades.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 10,000 km (6,000 miles), replace as needed or every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-24,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (depending on climate). Capacity approx. 4.25 liters (4.5 US qts).
Coolant:
BMW Blue or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity approx. 8.5 liters (9.0 US qts).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, ensuring it meets BMW specifications.
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (hoses, radiator, water pump), fuel distributor/injector issues (K-Jetronic), starter motor wear, rust in critical areas (wheel arches, sills), distributor cap and rotor failure, differential seals.
Specific Repairs:
The manual will detail procedures for replacing head gaskets, clutch systems, fuel pumps, and addressing electrical gremlins common in vehicles of this age.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy was firmly established by the E28 era, emphasizing performance, engineering excellence, and driver engagement.
E28 Introduction:
The E28 generation, launched in 1981, was an evolution of the successful E12 chassis, featuring a more modern design, improved aerodynamics, and enhanced engineering.
E28 Facelift:
Received a significant facelift in 1984, introducing updated bumpers (EU bumpers), revised interior, and new engine options, including fuel injection for all models.
Production Years:
E28 production: 1981-1987 (with 518 variants typically ending around 1985-1986 in most markets).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany.
