Target Audience:
BMW E30 owners, DIY mechanics, professional workshops
Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive dealer-level repair information at a fraction of the cost of official BMW manuals or dealership services.
Illustrations:
Hundreds of detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos
Instruction Style:
Numbered instructions, detailed sub-steps, notes, cautions, and warnings
Diagnostic Aid:
Includes troubleshooting and electrical service procedures with detailed wiring diagrams
Integrity:
100% complete and intact, no missing or corrupt pages/sections
Primary Coverage:
BMW 3 Series (E30) 318i and M3 models
Model Years Covered:
1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Digital Delivery:
Instant Download, Email Delivery
Readability:
Searchable, Bookmarked, iPad-ready
Engine:
Mechanical, Cooling, Lubrication, Fuel, Ignition, Control Systems, Emission Control
Drivetrain:
Manual Transaxle System, Clutch System, Drive Shaft, Differential Case Assy, Rear Axle
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering System, Wheel and Tire System, Rear Wheel Alignment
Brakes:
Brake System, Brake Master Cylinder, Brake Booster, Brake Actuator, Parking Brake
Electrical:
Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting System, Combination Meter, Wiring Diagrams, Wire Harness Repair
Body Chassis:
Body Repair, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Sun Roof System, Convertible Top Systems (if applicable)
Safety Features:
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Air Bag Systems, Seat Belt Systems
Comfort Convenience:
Climate Control, Power Window Control System, Power Mirror Control System, Power Door Lock Control System, Wiper & Washer System
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic procedures for various systems
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, from minor adjustments to complete overhauls
Rebuilding:
Complete disassembly and reassembly instructions for engine, transmission, and other major assemblies
Electrical Service:
Wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures, repair of electrical circuits and components
Body Work:
Body panel repair, glass replacement, alignment procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. Covers detailed procedures based on complete disassembly.
318I Engine:
BMW M10B18 (Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC)
M3 Engine 2.3L:
BMW S14B23 (Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, M-tuned)
M3 Engine 2.5L:
BMW S14B25 (Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, M-tuned)
318I Horsepower:
Approx. 102-114 hp (depending on market and year)
M3 Horsepower:
Approx. 192-238 hp (depending on S14 variant and year)
318I Fuel Injection:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic (depending on year)
M3 Fuel Injection:
Bosch Motronic
Crash Test History:
Good structural integrity for its era, but lacks modern safety features like airbags (except later M3s) and ABS as standard across all models.
Seat Belts:
3-point front seat belts, lap belts in rear (later models may have 3-point rear belts)
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag optional/standard on some late models and M3s.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player on later models.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature; warning lights.
ABS:
Optional on many models, standard on some later M3s.
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard; requires aftermarket modification.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (or as per manual recommendations, often linked to oil quality and driving conditions).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Depends on plug type, typically 30,000 - 60,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH, SAE 15W-40, 10W-40, or 5W-40 (refer to manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant:
BMW Blue/Green coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze diluted 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendation)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (specific viscosity depends on transmission model, often 75W-90 or 80W-90).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or III, or specific BMW power steering fluid.
Common Faults:
Cooling system leaks (hoses, radiator, water pump), fuel distributor issues (L-Jetronic), differential seal leaks, seized brake calipers, perished rubber bushings, electrical connector corrosion, sunroof drain blockage.
M3 Specific Issues:
Evo models can have specific engine management issues; regular valve adjustment for S14 is critical.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for building driver-focused, well-engineered automobiles.
E30 Significance:
The E30 generation is highly regarded for its balanced chassis, responsive handling, and iconic design. It established the 3 Series as a benchmark for compact executive cars.
M3 Development:
The E30 M3 was developed to homologate BMW for Group A touring car racing, featuring a bespoke engine (S14) and chassis enhancements for superior performance.
Production Period:
1982-1994 (E30 generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (primarily Dingolfing)
