🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

318i

Year:

1990

Chassis Code:

E30

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW 318i (E30) in 1990 represented BMW's entry-level luxury sports sedan, offering a balance of performance, build quality, and driving dynamics that defined the brand. It competed against models like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, and various Japanese luxury sedans of the era.

Key Strengths:

Renowned for its agile handling, rear-wheel-drive platform, and well-engineered inline-four engine. The E30 chassis is a classic, prized for its robust construction and driver-focused experience.

Vehicle Highlights:

Iconic E30 styling, refined interior for its class, solid build quality, excellent handling characteristics, reliable M40 engine (though timing belt maintenance is critical).

Value:

This workshop manual is an indispensable tool for owners and mechanics looking to maintain, repair, and troubleshoot the 1990 BMW 318i. It provides the in-depth technical knowledge required to keep this classic German sedan running at its best, saving time and money compared to relying solely on dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Engines Covered:

M40B18 (1.8L Inline-4)

Transmission Types Covered:

All Manual and Automatic Transmissions

Trim Levels Covered:

All Trim Levels

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2000+ (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, internal component specifications, timing belt replacement, piston and ring replacement, cylinder head service, crankshaft and connecting rod service.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic M1.3), sensor diagnostics, starter and charging system, ECU troubleshooting.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch service, gearbox overhaul, gear selection linkage, differential service.

Transmission Automatic:

Transmission fluid and filter changes, torque converter service, electronic control unit (ECU) diagnostics for transmission, shift solenoid testing.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components, brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column service.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and functions, lighting system, instrument cluster, power windows, central locking, wiper system.

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan clutch, water pump, thermostat, coolant types and capacities.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure testing.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipe replacement.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, jacking points, torque specifications for chassis components.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and top-offs, brake fluid flush.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, common symptoms and causes, step-by-step diagnostic procedures for electrical and mechanical issues.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major systems.

Diagnostics:

Fault code retrieval (where applicable for the era), sensor testing, circuit continuity checks.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable PDF (highly recommended for efficient use)

Printability:

Printable (allows for hard copy reference)

Quality:

High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M40B18

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 Cylinder

Displacement:

1796 cc (1.8 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84 mm x 81 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Horsepower:

115 PS (113 bhp; 85 kW) at 5600 rpm

Torque:

164 Nm (121 lb-ft) at 4250 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic M1.3 Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating typically 91 RON / 87 AKI)

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition, distributorless ignition system (DIS) or distributor system depending on specific market variant.

Cooling Type:

Water-cooled, pressurized system

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.25 Liters (4.5 US Quarts) with filter change

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check specific market recommendations and climate)

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Critical: Typically every 60,000 km (37,000 miles) or 4 years, whichever comes first. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed Manual Transmission

Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission

Manual Gear Ratios:

1st: 4.010, 2nd: 2.058, 3rd: 1.330, 4th: 1.000, 5th: 0.810, Reverse: 3.550 (typical for Getrag 260)

Automatic Gear Ratios:

1st: 2.480, 2nd: 1.482, 3rd: 1.000, 4th: 0.724 (typical for ZF 4HP22)

Fluid Type:

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

Fluid Type:

ATF Dexron III (or equivalent, check manual for exact specification)

Capacity:

Approx. 1.2 Liters (1.3 US Quarts)

Capacity:

Approx. 7.0 Liters (7.4 US Quarts) for complete refill (check dipstick)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4340 mm (170.9 in)

Width:

1678 mm (66.1 in)

Height:

1380 mm (54.3 in)

Wheelbase:

2620 mm (103.2 in)

Front Track:

1406 mm (55.4 in)

Rear Track:

1438 mm (56.6 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1220-1350 kg (2690-2976 lbs) depending on transmission and equipment

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1700 kg (3748 lbs)

Standard Wheel Size:

14-inch or 15-inch alloy or steel wheels

Standard Tire Size:

195/65R14 or 205/55R15

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm (5x4.72 in)

Wheel Offset:

ET+15 to ET+20 (typical)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

NHTSA ratings from the era were generally good for its class, but specific results for 1990 are often not readily available in modern databases. The E30 chassis was known for its rigid safety cell and crumple zones.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts in front, two-point lap belts in rear (rear shoulder belts were optional or standard in some markets).

Headrests:

Front and rear headrests

Body Structure:

Reinforced passenger compartment, energy-absorbing steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional BMW Bavaria C series cassette radio with premium speaker options. Basic analog tuning and sound controls.

Dashboard Display:

Analog gauges for speed, tachometer, fuel, and coolant temperature. Warning lights for various systems.

ABS:

ABS was an option and represented the primary driver assistance system of the era.

Connectivity Features:

None in the modern sense. Vehicles from this era were basic in terms of connectivity. Some models may have had provision for an external antenna for aftermarket phone installations.

Climate Control:

Manual heating and ventilation system. Optional air conditioning (A/C).

Power Accessories:

Optional power windows, optional power mirrors, optional central locking.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. However, many enthusiasts prefer shorter intervals, especially with synthetic oils.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 km (18,000 miles) or as needed based on inspection.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Every 40,000-60,000 km (24,000-37,000 miles).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-50,000 km (18,000-30,000 miles) depending on spark plug type.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 km (18,000 miles).

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 equivalent) or a 50/50 mix of P-HOAT coolant and distilled water. Check manual for exact specification.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Common Problems:

Timing belt failure (M40 engine), fuel distributor leaks, starter motor brushes wear, coolant expansion tank cracks, heater control valve issues, window regulator failures, front strut mount wear, rear wheel bearing noise.

Maintenance Priority:

Regular timing belt replacement and diligent fluid maintenance are paramount for the M40 engine's longevity.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW, founded in 1916, has a long-standing reputation for producing high-performance, driver-focused vehicles with exceptional engineering and build quality. The 'Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan was firmly established during this era.

E30 Generation:

The E30 generation of the BMW 3 Series was produced from 1982 to 1994. It succeeded the E21 and was replaced by the E36. The 1990 model year falls within the facelifted E30 range, which introduced updated styling and interior refinements.

318I Specific Evolution:

The 318i model gained prominence with the M40 engine in later E30 iterations, offering a more refined and fuel-efficient alternative to the earlier M10-based models. The 1990 model year 318i specifically featured the M40 engine, often paired with ABS as an option and updated interior trim.

Production Period:

1982-1994 (E30 generation), 1987-1991 (for M40 engine in E30 318i)

Location:

Primarily Germany (Munich and Dingolfing)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E30 Chassis Reputation:

The E30 platform, in general, received widespread acclaim for its driving dynamics and engineering, contributing to BMW's reputation as a premier manufacturer of sports sedans. Various automotive publications of the time often lauded its handling and build quality.