🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3-Series

Chassis Code:

E30

Specific Model:

316i

Generation:

First Generation (E30)

Engine Code Variant:

M40B16

👋 Introduction

E30 Era Positioning:

The E30 3-Series was a pivotal model for BMW, establishing its reputation for sporting sedans and coupes. The 316i represented the entry-level to mid-range offering, providing a balance of performance, efficiency, and BMW's signature driving dynamics, making it a popular choice for everyday drivers and enthusiasts alike.

Key Competitors:

Competed against models like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, and Ford Sierra XR4i. The 316i often offered superior handling and a more premium feel compared to some rivals in its segment.

Defining Attributes:

Rear-wheel drive, independent suspension on all corners, well-balanced chassis, driver-focused interior, reliable engine (with proper maintenance), compact yet capable package.

For The Owner:

Essential for owners looking to perform their own maintenance, diagnose issues, and undertake repairs, thus saving money and maintaining the vehicle's originality and performance.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage Years:

1988, 1989, 1990, 1991

Manual Coverage Models:

BMW 3-Series (E30) 316i

Estimated Page Count:

Approx. 700-1000+ (typical for a comprehensive E30 manual, exact may vary)

Manual Type:

Full Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English (assumed, standard for professional manuals)

Format:

Digital (PDF/eBook) or Print (depending on product offering)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshaft, timing, valve train, oil system, cooling system, fuel injection, ignition system (M40 engine specifics)

Engine Management:

ECU diagnosis, sensor readings, troubleshooting of engine control unit (Motronic system variants)

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox internals, gear selection, driveshafts, differential

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission (if applicable to 316i), valve body, torque converter, cooler lines, electronic control

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (semi-trailing arms), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering system (power steering system if equipped), alignment specifications

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes (depending on specific build), brake fluid, ABS system (if equipped), master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, ignition system components, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, instrument cluster, diagnostics

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulation

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, mounting hardware

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, body repair, corrosion protection, jacking points, towing points

Heating Ventilation And Ac:

HVAC system components, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant, control systems

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid replacement, drive belt inspection/replacement, air filter replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common faults, symptom-based diagnosis, fault code interpretation (if OBD-I systems are covered)

Engine Repair:

Head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, timing belt/chain service, complete engine rebuild procedures

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement, gearbox overhaul, seal replacement, transmission fluid service

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Shock absorber/strut replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, steering rack overhaul

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, brake line replacement, bleeding procedures

Electrical Diagnostics And Repair:

Wiring harness repair, component testing, diagnostic connector usage, starter/alternator testing

Fuel System Repair:

Fuel pump replacement, injector cleaning/replacement, fuel filter replacement

Bodywork And Trim Replacement:

Door panel removal, bumper replacement, trim piece installation

Technical Specifications Lookup:

Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive (covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds)

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced (includes detailed diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, and troubleshooting trees)

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for major component rebuilds (engine, transmission, etc.)

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of BMW-specific or special tools required for certain procedures

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (searchable text is highly desirable for digital formats)

Image Clarity:

High-resolution illustrations and diagrams (essential for clarity)

Print Type:

Professionally printed (for physical copies), clear and legible text

Physical Binding:

Comb-binding, perfect binding, or ring-binding (allowing for lay-flat page turning is advantageous in a workshop environment)

Physical Paper:

Durable, matte finish paper (resistant to grease and smudges in workshop conditions)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Engine Code:

M40B16

Displacement:

1596 cc (1.6 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 71.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Horsepower:

98 PS (97 hp; 72 kW) at 6000 rpm

Torque:

130 Nm (96 lb-ft) at 4500 rpm

Fuel Induction:

Bosch Motronic ML 4.1 fuel injection and ignition system

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating specified in manual, typically 95 RON)

Timing Drive:

Timing belt

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed manual transmission (Getrag 240)

Transmission Type Optional:

3-speed automatic transmission (ZF 3HP22)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single-plate dry clutch

Final Drive Ratio:

Typically 3.91:1 for manual, 3.64:1 for automatic (can vary slightly by market/options)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4325 mm (170.3 in)

Width:

Approx. 1680 mm (66.1 in)

Height:

Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1120 - 1180 kg (2470 - 2600 lbs), varies with transmission and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1600 kg (3527 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test History:

E30 chassis known for robust construction for its era. Specific independent crash test data for the 316i from this period may be limited or vary by testing authority (e.g., Euro NCAP did not exist in its current form).

Anti Lock Brakes:

Optional ABS system (anti-lock braking system) available on some models.

Traction Control:

Not typically available on the 316i E30.

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts (front), two-point seat belts (rear, with optional three-point available).

Airbags:

Driver's airbag not standard, but some later models or specific market versions may have offered it as an option. Passenger airbag not available.

Crumple Zones:

Designed with front and rear crumple zones for energy absorption.

💡 Technology Features

Radio System:

Typically a BMW Bavaria or similar era radio with cassette player. Some later models might have optional CD players. Speaker quality and placement are basic by modern standards.

Dashboard Controls:

Driver-centric dashboard with physical controls for HVAC, radio, and lighting. Analog gauges for speed, RPM, fuel, and temperature.

Cruise Control:

Optional on some models, though less common on the 316i.

Parking Assistance:

No parking sensors or backup cameras. Parking is purely based on driver skill and mirrors.

Aux Input:

Not standard. Aftermarket head units often required for modern connectivity (Bluetooth, USB).

Engine Management:

Bosch Motronic system provides integrated fuel injection and ignition control, a sophisticated system for its time, enabling efficient and reliable engine operation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12-15,000 km, or annually. Manual will specify exact interval and oil quality.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical: Typically every 40,000-60,000 miles or 5-6 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage on the M40 engine.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000-30,000 miles or as recommended by the manual.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-40,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (depending on climate). Manual will specify exact BMW approved oil.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

BMW approved ethylene glycol-based coolant concentrate (e.g., G48) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II or BMW specified fluid.

E30 Common Problems:

Rust (wheel arches, sills, battery tray), sagging headliner, cracked dashboard (ABS plastic), worn fuel pump relay, degraded rubber bushings, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), coolant leaks (hoses, water pump, expansion tank), timing belt failure (on M40 engine due to lack of regular replacement), starter motor issues.

M40 Engine Specific Issues:

The M40 engine's timing belt is a critical maintenance item. Also, the plastic cam chain guides can degrade. Valve stem seals can wear, leading to oil consumption.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

BMW, founded in 1916, has a long history of producing high-quality, performance-oriented vehicles. The 'Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan was solidified with models like the E30.

E30 Introduction:

The E30 generation debuted in 1982, replacing the successful E21. It was a significant evolution, offering improved handling, safety, and refinement.

E30 Variants:

The E30 range included sedans (2-door, 4-door), coupes, convertibles, and the iconic M3. The 316i was one of the more accessible models in the lineup.

Production Years E30:

1982-1994 (with major facelift in 1987)

Production Location:

Mainly Germany (Munich, Dingolfing)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E30 General Acclaim:

The E30 3-Series is widely regarded as one of the best-handling and most engaging driver's cars of its era. It cemented BMW's reputation for sporty sedans and is frequently cited in 'greatest cars' lists by automotive publications.

Motoring Press Awards:

While specific awards for the 316i model might be rare, the E30 generation as a whole received numerous accolades for its engineering, design, and driving dynamics from international motoring journalists.

Reliability Ratings:

Generally good reliability for its age, provided it has been maintained diligently. Common wear items need attention, but the core mechanicals are robust.