1991 BMW 318 318IC 318I Electrical TROUBLESHOOTING Manual

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🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Model Code: E30 Body Styles Covered: 318i (Sedan), 318iC (Convertible), 318iS (Coupe) Codes Engine Codes Covered: M40B18 👋 Introduction Market Position...

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Type: Car

Vendor:

Sku: 265160

Tags: 1991 318 318I 318IC BMW Car Cars Misc

Product variants

Description

🏷️ Basic Information

Identification

Make:

Model:

3 Series

Model Code:

Body Styles Covered:

318i (Sedan), 318iC (Convertible), 318iS (Coupe)

Codes

Engine Codes Covered:

M40B18

👋 Introduction

Market Position

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Executive Car / Sports Sedan/Coupe/Convertible

Bmw Philosophy:

Focus on driving dynamics, build quality, and sporty performance

Competitive Analysis

Key Competitors Era:

Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Acura Integra, Infiniti G20

Key Features

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, and precise steering

Build Quality:

Typical BMW robust construction and attention to detail

Engine Characteristics:

Smooth, rev-happy M40 engine providing adequate performance for daily driving

Body Style Versatility:

Available as a practical sedan, stylish coupe, and open-air convertible

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas

Manual Title:

1991 BMW 318i / 318iC / 318iS Electrical Troubleshooting Manual

Primary Focus:

Electrical Systems and Troubleshooting

Page Count

Estimated Page Count:

200-300

Manual Type

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Troubleshooting Guide

Language

Language:

English

Format

Format:

Printed Document

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered

Engine Management Electrical:

Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic), Ignition System, Sensors, Actuators

Lighting System:

Headlights, Taillights, Interior Lights, Fog Lights, Indicators

Instrument Cluster And Gauges:

Speedometer, Tachometer, Fuel Gauge, Temperature Gauge, Warning Lights

Power Windows And Locks:

Window Regulators, Central Locking System

Wiper And Washer System:

Wiper Motor, Washer Pump, Controls

Heating And Ventilation:

Blower Motor, Controls, Climate Control (if applicable)

Audio System:

Radio, Speakers, Antenna (basic wiring)

Starter And Charging System:

Alternator, Starter Motor, Battery Wiring

Safety Systems:

Horn, Brake Lights, Reverse Lights

Cruise Control System:

Components and Wiring (if equipped)

Procedures Included

Troubleshooting Methodology:

Systematic diagnostic approach for electrical faults

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed schematic diagrams for all electrical circuits

Component Location:

Identification of electrical components within the vehicle

Test Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for testing components and circuits

Fuse And Relay Identification:

Location and function of all fuses and relays

Diagnostic Trouble Codes DTC:

Explanation of diagnostic codes and their meaning (though OBD-I era)

Pinpoint Tests:

Specific tests for individual components and connectors

Common Electrical Faults:

Identification and resolution of frequently occurring electrical issues

Technical Depth

Diagnostic Level:

Advanced diagnostics and repair, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers

Detail Level:

In-depth coverage of circuit operation, signal pathways, and component interactions

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format

File Format Details:

Likely a scanned document or digital reproduction of the original print manual. Searchability may vary.

Print Quality

Print Quality Description:

Variable, depending on the source. Original factory manuals typically feature high-quality printing with clear diagrams.

Binding Type

Binding Type Description:

Original manuals are typically bound. Digital versions will be PDF files.

Paper Type

Paper Type Description:

Original manuals printed on durable, often glossy, paper suitable for workshop use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Engine Code:

M40B18

Displacement:

1.8 liters (1796 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84 mm x 81 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.8:1

Performance

Horsepower:

113 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

119 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm (approx.)

Fuel System

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)

Ignition System

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug or Coil-Pack

🔧 Transmission

Standard

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Optional

Transmission Type Optional:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Features

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch

📐 Dimensions

Exterior

Length:

Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 inches) for Sedan/Coupe

Width:

Approx. 1677 mm (66.0 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 inches) for Sedan/Coupe

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 inches)

Track Width Front:

Approx. 1406 mm (55.4 inches)

Track Width Rear:

Approx. 1426 mm (56.1 inches)

Weights

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1250-1400 kg (2756-3086 lbs), varies by body style and equipment

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 1700-1850 kg (3748-4079 lbs)

Towing Capacity:

Not typically specified for this model, generally not intended for towing.

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings

NHTSA Ratings:

Data for 1991 models may be limited. Early E30s had basic safety features.

Active Features

Brakes Front:

Ventilated Discs

Brakes Rear:

Solid Discs

Optional, generally on higher-spec models or later production

Passive Features

Airbags:

Not standard on 1991 models, potential driver airbag option on later E30s.

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia reel seatbelts front and rear

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cell with crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment

Audio System Features:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional premium sound systems were available.

Driver Assistance

ABS Availability:

Optional, enhancing braking control.

Connectivity

Connectivity Features:

None in the modern sense. Primarily analog systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first. Consult owner's manual for specifics.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium.

Timing Belt Replacement:

M40 engine uses a timing belt. Replacement interval is typically 40,000-60,000 miles (64,000-96,000 km) or 4-5 years.

Fluid Specifications

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for climate-specific viscosity)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.25 liters (4.5 US quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW's blue coolant is common for this era.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Transmission Fluid Manual:

SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (API GL-4 or GL-5, check manual)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III / Mercon (or equivalent) ATF

Known Issues

Electrical Gremlins:

Corroded grounds, failing relays, brittle wiring insulation, and instrument cluster issues are common in older vehicles.

Cooling System:

Plastic expansion tank cracks, thermostat housing leaks, water pump failures.

Fuel System:

Clogged fuel injectors, failing fuel pump, worn fuel pressure regulator.

Suspension:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, shock absorbers.

Rust:

Common areas include wheel arches, rocker panels, and around windows.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, sporty handling, and premium quality.

Model Evolution

E30 Introduction:

The E30 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 1982, with the 318i models arriving later in the production run.

1991 Updates:

The 1991 model year represents a late-stage E30. Updates might include minor interior refinements or availability of previously optional features.

Production

E30 Production Years:

1982-1994 (Global), with final markets receiving vehicles later.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing, Regensburg)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions

E30 Legacy Recognition:

The E30 platform is widely regarded as one of BMW's most iconic and best-driving generations, often praised for its purity of form and function.

Car And Driver Awards:

Various E30 models, including the 325i, frequently appeared on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists during their production years.