Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Volvo 240.
Vehicle Appeal:
Renowned BMW driving dynamics, build quality, and sporty image.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to maintain their classic BMW effectively, saving on labor costs and preserving vehicle value.
Years Covered:
1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (printable in its entirety)
Manual Type:
Complete Full Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS if applicable).
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electricals, power windows, mirrors, central locking.
Body & Trim:
Body panels, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, glass, doors, hood, trunk.
Maintenance:
Routine inspections, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Component Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for disassembling, inspecting, and reassembling major components.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Comprehensive diagnostic flowcharts and information for identifying faults.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners across all systems.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed and color-coded electrical wiring schematics for all circuits.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repairs.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, SOHC
Engine Code Specific:
M10B18
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Horsepower Est:
90-105 hp @ 5500-5800 rpm (varies by market and specific tune)
Torque Est:
140-150 Nm (103-111 lb-ft) @ 3000-3250 rpm (varies)
Fuel Delivery 316:
Carbureted (e.g., Solex CIS or equivalent)
Fuel Delivery 316I:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended)
Transmission Type Std:
4-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Opt:
3-Speed Automatic (ZF 3HP22 or similar)
Clutch Type:
Single Dry Plate, Hydraulic Activation
Manual Gear Ratios:
Detailed in manual (specific ratios for each gear and final drive)
Automatic Transmission Control:
Hydromechanical
Crash Test Era:
Pre-modern crash testing standards; focus on structural integrity of the E30 platform.
ABS:
Optional on later models, and may vary by market.
Brakes Front:
Ventilated Disc
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel front seatbelts, 2-point rear seatbelts (may vary).
Body Construction:
Unitized body-frame construction with crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval Km:
10,000 - 15,000 km (or annually, whichever comes first)
Spark Plug Replacement Km:
30,000 - 50,000 km (depending on plug type)
Timing Belt Replacement Km:
N/A (M10 engine uses a timing chain)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol-based coolant (BMW Blue or equivalent, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for exact type)
Cooling System:
Cracked plastic expansion tanks, failing water pumps, worn hoses.
Fuel System Carbureted:
Carburetor wear, vacuum leaks.
Electrical:
Corroded grounds, faulty fuel pump relays, failing instrument cluster components.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers.
Bmw Philosophy:
Ultimate Driving Machine - emphasis on performance, handling, and driver engagement.
E30 Introduction:
Introduced in 1982 as a successor to the E21, the E30 marked a significant step in BMW's compact executive car lineage.
316 Positioning:
The entry-level model in the E30 range, offering BMW quality and driving characteristics at a more accessible price point.
Production Years E30:
1982-1994 (global)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany, South Africa, USA, Mexico, Thailand, Venezuela.
E30 Reputation:
Widely praised for its handling, build quality, and timeless design, often considered a modern classic.
Car And Driver Comparison:
Consistently ranked among the best driver's cars in its class during its production run.
