🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Chassis Code:

E30

Year:

1989

Engine Codes Covered:

M10, M40, M20 (various displacements and configurations)

Body Styles Covered:

Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Touring (Wagon)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Sporty compact luxury sedan, coupe, and convertible, known for its engaging driving dynamics and build quality.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Volvo 240.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, and communicative steering, providing a classic driving experience.

Build Quality:

Typical BMW robust construction and long-term durability, though susceptible to rust in certain areas.

Engine Options:

Offered with a range of inline-four and inline-six engines, including the desirable M3 variant (though the 1989 manual primarily covers standard models).

Diy Support:

Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, reducing reliance on costly dealership services.

Diagnostic Tool:

Essential for diagnosing and rectifying issues, especially with the increasingly complex electronic systems of the era.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Breadth:

Comprehensive for all 1989 BMW 3 Series E30 models and styles.

Total Pages:

1200+

Manual Type:

Factory Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, and repair of cylinder head, cylinder block, crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, timing components.

Engine Control System:

Fuel injection systems (e.g., Bosch Motronic), ignition systems, sensor diagnostics and troubleshooting.

Emission Control Systems:

Catalytic converter systems, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), evaporative emission control (EVAP), associated sensors and components.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan systems (mechanical and electric), pressure testing.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, lines, and diagnostics.

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, oil pressure regulation, oil cooler (if applicable).

Starting And Charging System:

Starter motor, battery, alternator, voltage regulator, wiring.

Ignition System:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor (if applicable), ignition control module, timing adjustment.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system (master cylinder, slave cylinder, lines, pedal, clutch assembly), manual gearbox overhaul, gear shift mechanism.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission service, fluid changes, torque converter, electronic control systems (if applicable).

Drive Shaft And Axles:

Driveshaft, universal joints, CV joints, axle shafts, differential case assembly.

Suspension Front:

Struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, steering knuckles, springs, shock absorbers.

Suspension Rear:

Shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, trailing arms, trailing arms.

Steering System:

Steering gear, steering column, power steering pump, hoses, steering linkage, steering angle sensor.

Brake System:

Brake discs, brake pads, brake calipers, brake lines, brake master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake system, ABS components (if equipped).

Wheel And Tire System:

Wheel nuts, hub assemblies, wheel bearings, tire pressure monitoring (basic).

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, interior trim, sunroof system.

Electrical System And Wiring:

Detailed wiring diagrams, lighting systems, combination meter, horns, wipers, washer systems, power windows, power locks, antenna systems, radio receiver, speaker systems.

Supplemental Restraint System:

Airbag system (SRS) components, sensors, control modules, seat belt systems.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, lubrication, tune-ups.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, reassembly, and adjustment for all covered systems.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, symptom-based troubleshooting charts.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Diagnosis of electrical faults using wiring diagrams, multimeter usage, testing of sensors and actuators.

Component Rebuilds:

Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components like engines, transmissions, and brake systems.

Installation Procedures:

Guidance for installing new or replacement parts.

Depth Of Detail:

Comprehensive and highly detailed, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. Includes sub-steps, critical notes, cautions, and warnings.

Illustrations And Diagrams:

Hundreds of detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos, including enlarged insets for detailed part examination. Comprehensive wiring diagrams are a key feature.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Extensive technical specifications, torque values, clearances, and wear tolerances for all serviced components.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, ensuring clarity of text and images. All pages are printable without restriction.

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF). Printable pages allow for manual binding if desired.

Paper Type Implication:

N/A (Digital format). Printable pages are intended for standard paper stock.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variants Covered:

Includes but not limited to: M10 4-cylinder (e.g., 318i), M40 4-cylinder (e.g., 318is), M20 6-cylinder (e.g., 325i, 325e).

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 105 hp (318i) to 170 hp (325i) depending on engine variant.

Torque Range:

Approximately 110 lb-ft (318i) to 164 lb-ft (325i) depending on engine variant.

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic fuel injection systems, including L-Jetronic and various iterations of Motronic for later models.

Bore And Stroke Examples:

M10B18: 89.0 mm x 71.0 mm; M20B25: 84.0 mm x 75.0 mm.

Compression Ratio Examples:

M10B18: 8.8:1; M20B25: 8.8:1.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Gearbox:

4-speed or 5-speed manual transmissions (e.g., Getrag 240, Getrag 260).

Optional Gearbox:

3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmissions (e.g., ZF 4HP22).

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 101.2 inches (2570 mm).

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 2600-3000 lbs (1180-1360 kg) depending on body style and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Typically around 3600-3900 lbs (1630-1770 kg).

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Performance:

While specific ratings for the 1989 E30 may vary by region and testing agency, the E30 generally offered a robust safety cage and crumple zones for its era. Modern standards would classify its safety features as basic.

Active Safety Features:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available on some models, particularly the 325i.

Passive Safety Features:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners (driver side), reinforced door beams, padded interior surfaces, optional driver's side airbag (less common on early 1989 models, became more standard later).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio and cassette player, often with optional premium sound systems and amplifiers. Basic analog controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS (optional on some models), basic trip computer on higher trims.

Connectivity Features:

None by modern standards. Basic power options for windows and mirrors.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Check manual for specific recommendations.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-3 years or as recommended by BMW.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by plug type, typically 30,000-60,000 miles for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG/SH, ACEA A2-96 or A3-96, viscosity grades like 10W-40 or 15W-50 often recommended (refer to manual for exact BMW specs like BMW Longlife-98 for specific oils).

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW Part Number 81 22 9 407 028 or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. BMW Part Number 81 22 9 407 041 (DOT 3) or 81 22 9 407 043 (DOT 4).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil. Specific viscosity depends on temperature, often 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Typically Dexron II or III for ZF transmissions. BMW Part Number 81 22 9 400 272.

Common E30 Issues:

Coolant leaks (cracked plastic expansion tanks, hose failures), fuel pump failures, strut mount wear, fuel injector fouling, rust (especially wheel wells, rocker panels, strut towers), odometer gear failure, headliner sagging.

Engine Specific Issues:

M20 engines can experience head gasket failures if overheated; M40 engines had timing belt tensioner issues. Oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets are common.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, performance-oriented vehicles with a strong emphasis on engineering and handling.

E30 Generation:

The E30 was the second generation of the 3 Series, succeeding the E21 and preceding the E36. It marked a significant step in refinement and design for BMW's compact executive car.

Production Years E30:

1982-1994 (with 1989 being a mid-to-late production year).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary manufacturing plant in Munich, Germany, with production also occurring in other global facilities.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journal Awards:

While specific awards for the 1989 model year are numerous, the E30 generation as a whole received widespread critical acclaim for its performance, handling, and design. Often cited in 'best driver's cars' lists from its era.

Certification Implication:

N/A (as the manual itself isn't certified, but it reflects factory standards for a certified product).