Iconic Status:
The BMW E30 M3 is an iconic homologation special, celebrated for its motorsport heritage and exceptional driving dynamics, making this manual invaluable for owners and enthusiasts.
Target Audience:
Suitable for both experienced do-it-yourself mechanics and novice enthusiasts looking to maintain or repair their E30 M3.
Cost Effectiveness:
An inexpensive and efficient way to keep the vehicle in optimal working condition and avoid costly dealership repairs.
Diy Support:
Empowers owners to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, fostering a deeper understanding and connection with their vehicle.
Engine Systems:
Complete engine overhaul, including cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication, cooling, intake, and exhaust systems.
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual and automatic transmission service, clutch replacement, driveshaft, differential, and axle maintenance and repair.
Suspension Steering Systems:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, springs, control arms, bushings), steering rack, power steering system, and wheel alignment.
Braking Systems:
Front and rear brake systems (discs, calipers, pads, lines), parking brake, and ABS system diagnostics and repair.
Electrical Fuel Systems:
Comprehensive coverage of fuel injection systems (ECU, sensors, injectors, fuel pump), fuel delivery, ignition system, starting and charging system, lighting, instrumentation, and wiring harnesses.
Climate Control Emission Systems:
Heater core, A/C system operation and repair, emission control devices and related diagnostics.
Body Interior Restraint Systems:
Chassis and body repair, interior trim, door mechanisms, seats, airbags, and seatbelt systems.
Maintenance Procedures:
Regular maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, brake pad and rotor replacement, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major vehicle systems.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon problems, diagnostic procedures for electrical faults, engine performance issues, and component failures.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed troubleshooting for electrical systems, including extensive wiring diagrams, component location charts, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive factory-level service and repair information, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Enables in-depth diagnostics for complex mechanical and electrical issues using detailed procedures and wiring diagrams.
Visual Guidance:
Hundreds of high-quality photos, detailed illustrations, drawings, and enlarged inset views to guide users through each procedure.
Instructional Style:
Numbered step-by-step instructions with detailed substeps, notes, cautions, and warnings for critical information.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 Cylinder DOHC
Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2302 cc)
Horsepower European Spec:
192 hp @ 6900 rpm
Horsepower Catalytic Converter Spec:
200 hp @ 6900 rpm
Torque European Spec:
240 Nm (177 lb-ft) @ 4750 rpm
Torque Catalytic Converter Spec:
245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 4750 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, but often around 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual, but typically SAE 15W-40 or 15W-50 high-performance synthetic oil.
Coolant Specification:
BMW coolant (blue) or equivalent long-life antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
Refer to manual for specific Getrag 265 fluid (often a synthetic gear oil like Red Line MTL or equivalent).
Differential Fluid Specification:
Refer to manual for specific differential oil (e.g., synthetic 75W-90).
Common Problems:
Subframe mounting point cracks, rust (especially rear wheel arches, sills, jacking points), oil leaks from oil pan and valve cover, vacuum hose degradation, ABS sensor failures, fuel pump failure.
Engine Wear:
As with any high-performance engine of its era, valve guide wear and rod bearing health are critical to monitor.
Motorsport Legacy:
BMW's motorsport division, BMW M GmbH, developed the E30 M3 as a homologation special to compete in Group A touring car racing.
Design Inspiration:
Features a distinctive box-flared widebody kit, revised aerodynamics (unique front splitter, rear spoiler, and rear window angle), and a bespoke S14 engine derived from BMW's M10 4-cylinder block but with a 4-valve cylinder head.
Production Period:
1986-1991
Production Variants:
Includes Evo I, Evo II, Sport Evolution (Evo III), and Cecotto/Ravaglia special editions.
