Positioning:
The 1985 BMW 528i (E28 chassis) was positioned as a premium mid-size executive sedan, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and sporty driving dynamics, competing with cars like the Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class and Audi 100.
Competition:
Competed against established European luxury marques. Known for its superior handling and driver engagement compared to some rivals.
Features:
Inline-six engine, rear-wheel drive, sophisticated suspension, driver-oriented cockpit, high build quality.
Engine:
M30B28 Engine Service, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Rebuild Procedures
Fuel System:
Bosch LE2-Jetronic Fuel Injection System Service and Troubleshooting
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition System (Baeu) Diagnostics and Repair
Transmission:
Getrag 260 5-Speed Manual Transmission Overhaul, Clutch System Service
Automatic Transmission:
ZF 4HP22 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Service and Troubleshooting (if applicable)
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, Differential, Axles, CV Joints Service and Repair
Suspension:
Front and Rear Suspension Components, Springs, Shock Absorbers, Bushings, Alignment Procedures
Steering:
Power Steering System Service, Steering Rack and Linkage Repair
Brakes:
Front and Rear Disc Brakes, ABS System (if equipped), Brake Fluid Flush, Component Replacement
Electrical System:
Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays, Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor Service
Lighting:
Headlights, Taillights, Interior Lighting Diagnostics and Repair
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning System Service and Repair
Bodywork:
Body Panel Removal/Installation, Door Mechanisms, Glass Replacement
Interior:
Seat Removal, Trim Panel Service, Dashboard Components
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Level Checks, Belt Tensioning
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Charts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides
Repair:
Component Removal, Disassembly, Inspection, Reassembly, and Installation
Diagnostics:
Detailed Diagnostic Procedures for all Major Systems
Torque Specifications:
All Essential Torque Values for Engine, Chassis, and Drivetrain Components
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.
Type:
Getrag 260 5-Speed Manual
Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-Speed Automatic (often designated as '4HP22 EH' with electronic control)
Clutch:
Single Dry Plate Clutch, Hydraulic Actuation
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Castrol TAF-X, Pentosin MTF 2)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (refer to manual for specific BMW fluid)
Safety Standards:
Designed to meet 1980s safety standards; ABS available on later models and some 1985 variants.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (Optional/Standard on some models)
Airbags:
Not equipped with airbags (standard for the era)
Seat Belts:
3-point front seat belts, 2-point rear belts
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (or annually), depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific interval.
Spark Plugs:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, replace as needed. Refer to manual for specific type and interval.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity recommendation based on climate).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Mounts:
Common to degrade over time, leading to vibration.
Fuel Lines:
Rubber fuel lines can degrade and become brittle, requiring replacement.
Cooling System:
Radiator, hoses, and water pump can leak with age.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber bushings in control arms and sway bars can wear out, affecting handling.
Window Regulators:
Manual or power window regulators can fail.
