🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

318i

Chassis Code:

E30

Model Years Covered:

1983-1991

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and owners seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W201 (190E), Audi 80/90, Volvo 240, Alfa Romeo 75

Design Philosophy:

The E30 generation exemplified BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy with its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, and driver-focused interior.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides critical information for maintaining and repairing a classic BMW, enabling owners to preserve its performance and character.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Mechanical and electrical systems, body repair, maintenance

Engine Coverage:

M10, M40 engines

Transmission Coverage:

Manual and automatic transmissions

Body And Chassis Coverage:

Body panels, frame, suspension, steering

Electrical Coverage:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, lighting, ignition

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified in product info, but described as extensive)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, lubrication, cooling

Fuel And Emissions:

Fuel injection systems (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, exhaust system, emissions control

Ignition System:

Ignition coils, distributor, spark plugs, ignition timing

Transmission Mechanical:

Clutch, gearbox overhaul, gear selection, internal components

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, universal joints, differential, axle shafts

Suspension System:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, springs

Steering System:

Steering rack, tie rods, power steering pump, steering column

Braking System:

Brake pads, rotors, calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, ABS (if equipped), parking brake

Electrical Systems Detailed:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, fuse box, relays, lighting circuits, instrument cluster

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, seats, door mechanisms, glass

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection

Engine Repair Procedures:

Head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, valve adjustments, timing belt/chain replacement

Transmission Repair Procedures:

Clutch replacement, transmission fluid and filter changes, internal gearbox repairs

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Component replacement, alignment procedures, power steering system service

Brake System Repair:

Pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures, master cylinder replacement

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Diagnosis of common electrical faults, wiring harness repair, component testing

Body And Paint Repair:

Dent removal, panel replacement, rust repair techniques, door alignment

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical diagnostics, and bodywork.

Detail Level:

Step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, diagnostic flowcharts, and detailed diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution PDF, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick access to specific information.

Printability:

Designed for easy printing of individual sections or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

M10 (e.g., M10B18)

Engine Type 1:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC

Displacement 1:

1.8 Liters (1766 cc)

Bore Stroke 1:

89.0 mm x 71.0 mm

Compression Ratio 1:

8.8:1 to 10.5:1 (depending on variant)

Horsepower 1:

Approx. 100-105 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm

Torque 1:

Approx. 105-110 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 rpm

Engine Code 2:

M40 (e.g., M40B18)

Engine Type 2:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC

Displacement 2:

1.8 Liters (1796 cc)

Bore Stroke 2:

86.0 mm x 77.0 mm

Compression Ratio 2:

9.0:1 to 10.0:1 (depending on variant)

Horsepower 2:

Approx. 100-105 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm

Torque 2:

Approx. 105-110 lb-ft @ 3500-4300 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) or Motronic electronic fuel injection

Octane Rating:

Unleaded 91-95 RON (91 AKI) recommended

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Getrag 240 5-speed manual

Optional Transmission:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch

Manual Fluid:

BMW approved manual transmission fluid (e.g., ATF Dexron II or equivalent for older models, later MTF LT-2 may be specified)

Automatic Fluid:

ZF TE-ML 11A or 11B / ATF Dexron II or III

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4355-4395 mm (171.5-173.0 in)

Width:

Approx. 1675-1680 mm (65.9-66.1 in)

Height:

Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1160-1250 kg (2557-2756 lbs) depending on body style and equipment

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1600-1700 kg (3527-3748 lbs)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 430 Liters (15.2 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

No standardized NCAP ratings available for this era, but generally considered robust for its time.

ABS:

Optional on some models, standard on later revisions.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts

Headrests:

Front and rear headrests

Crumple Zones:

Designed with front and rear crumple zones for impact absorption.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted radio/cassette players (e.g., Blaupunkt, Becker), optional CD players on later models.

Speaker Configuration:

Typically 4-6 speakers (door, dashboard, rear parcel shelf).

ABS Availability:

Optional on most E30 models, a significant driver assistance feature for the era.

HVAC System:

Manual climate control with optional air conditioning. Heater core and blower motor are common maintenance items.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, check manual for specific recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-45,000 miles (48,000-72,000 km)

Timing Belt Replacement:

For M40 engines: 30,000-40,000 miles (48,000-64,000 km) or 4-5 years. M10 is a timing chain.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3, Viscosity: 10W-40 or 15W-50 (depending on climate). Consult manual for exact BMW spec.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 - 4.5 Liters (4.2 - 4.8 US Quarts) with filter change.

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW P/N 81 22 9 407 074 or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 high-temperature brake fluid.

Common Issues Overview:

Rust (wheel arches, sills, subframe mounts), sagging headliner, cooling system leaks (hose degradation, radiator), fuel distributor issues (K-Jetronic), vacuum leaks, window regulator failures, seized heater control valves.

Engine Specific Issues:

M10: Robust but can suffer from oil consumption with age. M40: Timing belt failure can cause catastrophic engine damage; rocker arm wear.

Electrical Issues:

Corrosion in connectors, aging wiring insulation, faulty ignition components.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long history of producing sporty, well-engineered sedans and coupes known for their driving dynamics.

E30 Positioning:

The E30 was BMW's second generation of the 3 Series, building upon the success of the E21. It introduced significant design and engineering updates.

Design Influences:

Designed by Claus Luthe, the E30 featured a more angular and modern design compared to its predecessor, with a focus on aerodynamics and structural rigidity.

Production Years Global:

1982-1994 (E30 platform produced globally)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), South Africa, Mexico, Thailand

Body Styles:

2-door sedan, 4-door sedan, convertible, touring (wagon), Baur convertible

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism Accolades:

Consistently praised by automotive press for its handling, build quality, and performance, often appearing on 'best driver's car' lists of its time.

Collectible Status:

Highly regarded by enthusiasts, with certain E30 models (like M3, but also well-maintained 318i variants) appreciating in value.