Market Position:
The E28 5 Series, particularly the 518 and 518i variants, represented BMW's entry-level executive sedan offering in 1987. It competed against other European and Japanese luxury sedans of the era, focusing on driving dynamics, build quality, and understated luxury. The 518 was positioned as a more accessible model within the 5 Series lineup.
Competitive Analysis:
Competitors included models such as the Mercedes-Benz W124 (230E), Audi 100, Saab 9000, and Volvo 240/740 series. The E28's strengths lay in its refined handling, robust engineering, and a more driver-focused cockpit compared to some rivals.
Key Features:
Rear-wheel drive, independent suspension, precise steering, durable M10 engine (in 518/518i), comfortable and driver-oriented interior, iconic BMW styling.
Coverage Areas:
Complete official factory service and repair information for BMW 518 and 518i (E28 chassis) models from 1987.
Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified in product description, but implies comprehensive coverage)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Language:
English (assumed typical for factory manuals intended for international distribution)
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanicals (M10B18), fuel system (carbureted and K-Jetronic injection), ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, clutch, manual transmission, driveshaft, differential, suspension (front strut, rear semi-trailing arm), steering system, braking system (disc/drum or disc/disc), electrical system (wiring diagrams, component testing), bodywork, heating and ventilation, interior trim, diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled service, engine overhaul and rebuild, transmission service and repair, suspension component replacement, brake caliper and master cylinder servicing, electrical component testing and replacement, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, body panel alignment, interior component removal and installation.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers from basic fluid changes and adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed torque specifications, diagnostic flowcharts, and component testing procedures.
File Format:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Print Quality:
High-resolution digital reproduction of original factory documents, suitable for printing. Clarity of diagrams and text is paramount.
Binding Type:
Digital (Download PDF), allowing for user-defined binding or digital access.
Paper Type:
Not applicable for digital download, but original manuals would typically be printed on durable, semi-gloss paper.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder
Compression Ratio:
8.3:1 (typical for M10B18)
Power Hp 518:
90 (approx.) @ 5500 RPM (carbureted)
Power Hp 518I:
102 (approx.) @ 5800 RPM (fuel injected)
Torque Lb-Ft 518:
130 (approx.) @ 3500 RPM (carbureted)
Torque Lb-Ft 518I:
137 (approx.) @ 3500 RPM (fuel injected)
Fuel System 518:
Stromberg 175 CD-2 or similar twin-choke carburetor
Fuel System 518I:
Bosch K-Jetronic continuous fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with distributor
Cooling System:
Water-cooled, pressurized, with thermostatically controlled fan.
Transmission Standard:
4-speed manual transmission
Transmission Optional:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission (common option), ZF 3HP22 3-speed automatic transmission
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate diaphragm spring clutch
Transmission Fluid Spec:
GL-4 gear oil (e.g., Pentosin MTF 94, Castrol EP 80W/90)
Rear Axle Ratio:
Typically 3.64:1 or 3.45:1 depending on transmission and options
Safety Ratings:
No official crash test ratings from modern agencies (e.g., NHTSA, Euro NCAP) for this specific year/model, as testing standards were different. However, E28 models were known for robust build quality for their era.
Active Features:
Four-wheel disc brakes (on some models/markets, otherwise front disc/rear drum), power-assisted steering, limited-slip differential (optional).
Passive Features:
Safety-reinforcing cabin structure, energy-absorbing steering column, laminated front windshield, three-point seat belts (front, with rear lap belts standard).
Infotainment System:
Basic analog radio (AM/FM), optional cassette player. Speaker quality and output varied by original option package.
Driver Assistance:
Limited by modern standards. Features included power steering and anti-lock braking system (ABS) as an option on some models.
Connectivity:
No integrated connectivity features. Radio antenna is the primary external connection.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control with heater, ventilation fan speeds, and optional air conditioning. Air conditioning systems of this era often used R-12 refrigerant.
Oil Change Interval Km:
10,000 - 15,000 km (or annually), subject to driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement Km:
20,000 - 30,000 km (depending on plug type and condition)
Timing Belt Replacement Km:
N/A (M10 engine uses a timing chain)
Coolant Flush Interval Years:
2-3 years
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (depending on climate)
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
4.25 (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors (e.g., BMW Premium Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent
Known Issues:
Cooling system component degradation (radiator hoses, water pump seals), fuel distributor/injector issues (K-Jetronic), vacuum line leaks leading to rough idle, rust in common areas (wheel arches, rocker panels, trunk floor), front suspension wear (control arm bushings, tie rod ends), dashboard cracks (due to age/UV exposure), blower motor resistor failure, rear trailing arm bushings.
Timing Chain Considerations:
The M10 engine uses a timing chain which is generally robust. However, chain guides and tensioners can wear over time, potentially leading to increased noise or eventual timing issues if neglected.
Brand Heritage:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, has a long-standing reputation for building sporty, driver-focused luxury vehicles with advanced engineering and high-quality construction. The 'Neue Klasse' of sedans in the 1960s established BMW's identity, a legacy continued by the 5 Series.
Model Evolution:
The E28 generation, produced from 1981 to 1988, succeeded the E12 5 Series. It was a significant evolution, featuring more advanced aerodynamics, updated chassis and suspension, and a wider range of engine options. The 518 and 518i models provided a more economical entry point into the executive sedan segment.
Production Years:
E28 series: 1981-1988. Specific 518/518i variants for 1987 model year.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Dingolfing plant).
Recognitions:
The E28 generation as a whole was well-regarded for its driving dynamics and build quality, often appearing on 'best of' lists for its era. Specific awards for the 518/518i variants are not prominently documented, as they were the entry-level models.
Ratings:
Contemporary automotive press reviews generally praised the E28's handling, ride comfort, and the robust nature of its powertrain, particularly the M10 engine's longevity when properly maintained.
