Positioning:
The BMW E28 5 Series represented BMW's mid-size luxury sedan offering during the 1980s, known for its blend of performance, comfort, and build quality. It competed with other executive sedans of the era.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Volvo 740/760, Jaguar XJ.
Distinguishing Attributes:
Rear-wheel drive platform, refined inline-six engines, sophisticated suspension design for its time, iconic 'Bangle' styling influence (though more restrained than later generations), driver-focused cockpit.
Manual Users:
BMW E28 owners, independent repair shops, automotive technicians, classic car enthusiasts, DIY mechanics.
Benefits To Owner:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving money, understanding their vehicle better, ensuring longevity and optimal performance. Provides critical information for diagnosing and fixing issues.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals (block, pistons, rings, crankshaft, camshaft, valve train, cylinder heads), cooling system, lubrication system (oil pump, oil pan, oil radiator), fuel system (carburetor, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors), ignition system, exhaust system (muffler, downpipe, catalytic converter, headers), timing (timing belt/chain, timing gear).
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission (manual and automatic), clutch system (clutch, pressure plate, flywheel, clutch master/slave cylinders, clutch hoses), driveshafts, axles, CV boots, shift linkage.
Suspension Steering:
Suspension components (shocks, struts, springs), steering system, alignment procedures, wheel bearings, hub replacement.
Brake Systems:
Brake system components (pads, shoes, rotors, calipers, lines, hoses), brake fluid, brake bleeding procedures, parking brake.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring harnesses (chassis, main, engine), electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, sensors (oil pressure, etc.), relays, ignition switch, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior lights, fog lights, turn signals), power windows, central locking.
Body Interior:
Body panels, doors, hinges, latches, handles, hood, trunk, bumpers, fenders, grille, glass, window regulators, dashboard, console, door panels, interior trim, upholstery, airbags (if applicable to specific models within the E28 range).
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, transmission fluid changes, differential fluid changes, coolant flushes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, tire rotation, brake pad/shoe replacement, brake fluid replacement, belt replacement (multi-rib/serpentine), battery testing/replacement, wiper blade replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (where applicable), electrical system diagnostics, fuel system testing, ignition system analysis, engine performance diagnosis.
Repair Procedures:
Complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component repair/replacement, bodywork repair, interior component repair.
Technical Data Specs:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, fluid capacities and specifications (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), engine specifications (bore, stroke, compression ratio), chassis specifications, wheel bolt patterns, tire pressure recommendations, emission control information.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive. Covers routine maintenance, advanced diagnostics, troubleshooting, component-level repair, and complete vehicle overhauls. Designed for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.
Available Engines:
• 524td (Diesel)
• 528e (Eta engine, 2.7L)
• 533i (3.2L)
• 535i (3.4L)
• 535i U.S. (specific US market tuning)
Typical Horsepower Range:
Approximately 120 hp (524td) to 218 hp (535i US-spec).
Typical Torque Range:
Approximately 170 lb-ft (524td) to 224 lb-ft (535i US-spec).
Fuel Delivery Systems:
Fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic, Motronic) for gasoline engines, diesel injection system for 524td. Some early models or specific markets might have had carburetors, though injection was dominant in the E28 era.
Cylinder Head Design:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) inline-six cylinder engines for most variants, featuring two valves per cylinder.
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled, pressurized system with a radiator, fan, and coolant reservoir.
Oil Capacity Typical:
Approximately 5-6 liters (5.3-6.3 US quarts) depending on engine variant.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12-18 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for precise recommendations).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Intervals vary by spark plug type (copper, platinum, long-life). Check manual for specific recommendations.
Timing Belt Chain Replacement:
E28 engines primarily used timing chains (except for some M models or specific earlier European variants which might have used belts), which are generally designed to last the life of the engine, but inspection for wear and tension is recommended.
Engine Oil Specification:
Typically SAE 15W-40, 10W-40, or 5W-30 synthetic/semi-synthetic, depending on climate and engine. Specific BMW approvals are often recommended (e.g., BMW Longlife-98 or earlier specs).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). BMW recommends specific coolant formulations or compatible aftermarket equivalents.
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (hoses, radiator, expansion tank), fuel injector O-ring leaks, fuel pump failure, ignition system issues (coil, distributor, plug wires), front suspension wear (bushings, ball joints), rust in common areas (fender wells, rocker panels, battery tray), rear subframe mounting points fatigue, differential noise/leaks.
Diesel Specific Issues:
Glow plug issues, injection pump seals, turbocharger (on 524td) wear.
