Segment:
Executive/Luxury Sedan
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124, Audi 100/200, Volvo 700 Series, Jaguar XJ
Design Philosophy:
Focus on driver engagement, build quality, and understated luxury.
Powertrain Emphasis:
Reliable inline-four engines, refined chassis dynamics, rear-wheel drive.
Engine Systems:
Fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic), ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, emissions control
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differential, rear axle
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms), steering (power assisted), brakes (front discs, rear drums), wheels, tires
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starting and charging system, instrumentation, fuses, relays, accessories, ECU diagnosis
Body And Interior:
Body construction, panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, HVAC system
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and adjustment
Engine Repair:
Overhaul, piston and ring replacement, cylinder head gasket replacement, valve adjustments, timing chain service
Transmission Repair:
Overhaul (manual and automatic), component replacement, clutch service
Brake Service:
Pad and rotor replacement, caliper rebuilding, drum brake service, brake fluid flush
Suspension And Steering Service:
Shock/strut replacement, ball joint and control arm service, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump and rack service
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common electrical faults, component testing, wiring harness repair
Bodywork And Restoration:
Panel alignment, rust repair techniques, interior component removal and installation
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic tune-ups to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated Inline 4-cylinder
Displacement:
1.8 L (1766 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
86 mm x 76.8 mm
Horsepower:
90 PS (89 hp; 66 kW) at 5500 rpm
Torque:
140 Nm (103 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based)
Valve Lash Adjustment Interval:
Every 30,000 km (18,600 miles) or as needed
Spark Plug Part Number:
NGK BP5ES or equivalent
Transmission Type:
4-speed Manual
Transmission Type:
3-speed ZF 3HP22 Automatic
Clutch Type:
Dry single-plate
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 Gear Oil
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III/Mercon (or equivalent)
Crash Test Ratings:
NHTSA ratings for this era are generally not directly comparable to modern standards. Known for robust build quality.
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs (later models) or drums, dual-circuit hydraulic system.
Seat Belts:
Three-point front seat belts, two-point rear belts (optional three-point available).
Body Structure:
Integrated safety cage, crumple zones.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional premium sound systems.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.
Early Features:
Central locking, power windows (optional), electric sunroof (optional), trip computer (optional).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles).
Brake Fluid Change Interval:
Every 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, ACEA A3/B3, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (depending on climate).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, BMW approved (blue or green).
Engine Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts)
Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket, potential for timing chain stretch over high mileage.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump reliability, injector issues (rare), cold start valve operation.
Suspension:
Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and rear trailing arm bushings. Shock absorber deterioration.
Electrical:
Corrosion in wiring connectors, alternator issues, intermittent dashboard warning lights.
Body:
Rust formation in common areas: wheel arches, rocker panels, sunroof drain channels, rear window seal.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, sporty driving dynamics, and quality construction.
E28 Introduction:
The E28 generation succeeded the E12 5 Series, introducing updated styling, improved aerodynamics, and a more refined chassis.
518I Positioning:
The 518i represented the entry-level model in the E28 lineup, offering a more affordable entry into BMW's executive sedan segment.
Production Years E28:
1981-1988
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (Dingolfing plant)
Automotive Press:
Consistently praised by automotive press for its driving dynamics, build quality, and comfort for its era.
Customer Satisfaction:
High owner satisfaction for reliability and long-term ownership experience when properly maintained.
Iso Standards:
Manufactured under stringent quality control standards typical of German automotive engineering.
