Historical Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Key Competitors 1983:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 4000, Volvo 240 Series, Alfa Romeo Alfetta.
Vehicle Appeal:
Renowned for BMW's characteristic driving dynamics, sporty handling, build quality, and premium appeal in its class.
Manual Utility:
Essential for owners and independent mechanics to maintain, repair, and diagnose issues on the iconic E30 318i, preserving its performance and longevity.
Engine System Coverage:
M10 Engine: Disassembly, assembly, tuning, diagnostics, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic), ignition system (electronic), cooling system, lubrication system.
Transmission System Coverage:
Manual & Automatic Transmissions: Clutch, gear shifting mechanisms, gearbox overhaul, torque converter, transmission fluid specifications.
Drivetrain System Coverage:
Driveshafts, differential, rear axle assembly, wheel bearings.
Suspension Steering Coverage:
Front & Rear Suspension: MacPherson struts, control arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings. Steering System: Rack and pinion, power steering (if equipped), steering column.
Braking System Coverage:
Front Disc & Rear Drum Brakes: Brake fluid, hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors, brake pads, master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake.
Electrical System Coverage:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, instrumentation, starting and charging system (alternator, starter motor), battery, fuses, relays, horn, power windows/locks (if equipped).
Body Chassis Coverage:
Body panels, door mechanisms, glass, trim, chassis structural components, jacking points, towing information.
HVAC Coverage:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (if equipped): Blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant system.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, belt inspection/replacement, fluid level checks.
Troubleshooting Procedures:
Diagnostic charts, common problems and their solutions, symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul of major systems: engine rebuild, transmission repair, suspension replacement, brake caliper rebuild.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Engine timing, compression testing, fuel pressure testing, ignition timing adjustment, electrical circuit testing.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, engine clearances, valve lash settings, timing chain/belt slack specifications.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical system diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Horsepower Hp:
Approx. 101-105 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm (market dependent)
Torque Lb Ft:
Approx. 101-103 lb-ft @ 3200-3250 rpm (market dependent)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane minimum recommended)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based)
Cooling Method:
Water-cooled, thermostatically controlled
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions.
Tune Up Interval:
Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) for spark plugs, distributor cap, rotor, etc.
Timing Belt Replacement:
M10 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, requiring periodic tensioner checks but not replacement at fixed intervals like belts.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 (check manual for climate specific recommendations)
Coolant Specification:
50/50 mix of BMW Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol-based) and distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (ISO 4925 Class 3 or 4).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for exact spec)
Differential Fluid Specification:
API GL-5 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90
Common Wear Items:
Control arm bushings, sway bar links, fuel injectors, ignition components (caps, rotors, plugs), water pump, radiator hoses, fuel pumps, fuel accumulators.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, door bottoms, battery tray area, rear shock towers.
Electrical Gremlins:
Can experience issues with wiring harness degradation, grounds, and aging relays/switches.
