🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Chassis Code:

E30

Model Years Covered:

1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992

Engine Codes:

S14B23 (2.3L), S14B25 (2.5L)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

BMW E30 M3 owners, DIY enthusiasts, professional mechanics

Value Proposition:

Provides factory-level repair information, enabling significant cost savings on maintenance and repairs.

Authenticity:

Original manufacturer's manual, same as used by local service/repair shops.

Completeness:

Complete and intact, no missing or corrupt parts/pages.

Ease Of Use:

Includes numbered instructions, bold figure numbers, detailed illustrations, and an easy-to-use table of contents.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All E30 M3 models/engines/trims/transmissions

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds (Exact count not specified, but described as comprehensive)

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Service, repair, troubleshooting, fuel injection, fuel system, cooling system, emission system, engine control system

Transmission:

Service, repair

Brakes:

Brake system service and repair

Electrical:

Electrical system service, troubleshooting, wiring diagrams

Suspension Steering:

Suspension, steering systems

Chassis Body:

Chassis, body, interior, restraint system

Drivetrain:

Differential, drive axle service/repair

Comfort:

Heater/Air Conditioning (HVAC) service

Maintenance:

General maintenance, periodic lubrication

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting, diagnostic information

Repair:

Detailed substeps for repair procedures, disassembly, assembly, cleaning, reinstallation

Depth:

Professional technician level, comprehensive diagnostic, repair, and maintenance information

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Readability Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

Printability:

Full Printable

Zoom Functionality:

Zoom IN/OUT supported

Binding:

Digital Download (N/A for physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 Cylinder (M1, S14)

2.3L Horsepower:

192 hp (DIN) for 1986-1988 models

2.3L Torque:

235 Nm (173 lb-ft) for 1986-1988 models

2.5L Horsepower:

215 hp (DIN) for 1989-1991 models (Evo models varied)

2.5L Torque:

245 Nm (181 lb-ft) for 1989-1991 models

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 265 5-speed manual transmission

Optional Transmission:

N/A (Manual transmission was standard for the M3)

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios available within the manual

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2,560 mm (100.8 in)

Length:

4,240 mm (167.0 in)

Width:

1,700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

1,370 mm (53.9 in)

Curb Weight Approx:

1,200 - 1,300 kg (2,645 - 2,866 lbs) depending on year and spec

Gvw Approx:

1,650 kg (3,638 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited public data for the era; E30 platform known for robust build

ABS:

Available on later models or as an option

Airbags:

Driver airbag typically optional or absent on early models, standard on later versions

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia reel seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory cassette or AM/FM radio systems, potentially with upgraded aftermarket units.

Traction Control:

No traction control system as standard.

Auxiliary Input:

N/A for factory systems; aftermarket solutions common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, as per manual recommendations (refer to manual for specifics)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by plug type, consult manual for specific intervals and torque values.

Engine Oil Type:

Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 20W-50, 10W-40, depending on climate and oil type)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.75 liters (5.0 US quarts) with filter change

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 brake fluid

Transmission Fluid Type:

Refer to manual for specific Getrag 265 fluid type and capacity

Differential Fluid Type:

Refer to manual for specific differential fluid type and capacity (e.g., synthetic SAE 75W-90 GL-5)

Common Issues:

Subframe mounting reinforcement, VANOS (if applicable to later S14 variants), fuel injector seals, valve guide wear, cooling system components (water pump, hoses), rear shock mount fatigue.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorsport:

Developed by BMW Motorsport GmbH to homologate the E30 for Group A Touring Car racing.

Generations:

First generation M3 (E30), a homologation special with significant chassis and engine revisions over standard E30 models.

Production Period:

1986-1991 (North American market received models from 1987-1991)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Munich and Regensburg)

Production Volume:

Approximately 17,970 units worldwide

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motorsport Success:

Numerous racing championships worldwide, including DTM, ETCC, and IMSA GTU.

Collectible Status:

Highly regarded as a modern classic and one of the most desirable M cars.