🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Chassis Code:

E30

Model Variant:

316

Production Years Covered:

1983-1988

Engine Code Group:

M10 Family (early models), M40 Family (later models)

Body Styles Covered:

2-door sedan, 4-door sedan, convertible (some variations may apply)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Executive / Sports Sedan

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts and DIY mechanics seeking in-depth repair and maintenance knowledge for their E30 316.

Era Competitors:

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

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive setup, and engaging driving experience.

Build Quality:

Typical BMW robust construction and durable materials.

Design Era:

Iconic and timeless design, a hallmark of BMW's E-series lineage.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Mechanical, Electrical, Bodywork, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair

Specific Systems:

Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drive Axles, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (including ABS where applicable), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), Body & Chassis, Heating & Air Conditioning, Interior Trim, Maintenance Procedures

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory-style manuals)

Type:

Factory-Type Service Repair Workshop Manual

Purpose:

Guidance for diagnosis, repair, maintenance, and overhaul

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanicals, fuel delivery (carburetor/injection), ignition timing, emission controls, lubrication, cooling, exhaust, clutch operation, manual and automatic transmission overhaul, differential and drive shafts.

Chassis And Suspension:

Front and rear suspension component replacement, alignment procedures, shock absorber and spring servicing, steering rack and linkage repair, wheel bearing service.

Brakes And Wheels:

Brake system diagnostics, caliper and master cylinder overhaul, brake pad and disc replacement, parking brake adjustment, ABS system troubleshooting (if equipped).

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, component testing, diagnostic procedures for lighting, starting, charging, instruments, accessories, and ECU diagnostics.

Body And Interior:

Body panel alignment, door and lock mechanism repair, window and sunroof operation, interior trim removal and installation, seating adjustment and repair, HVAC system servicing.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.

Troubleshooting And Diagnostics:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, braking problems, and cooling system malfunctions.

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuild procedures, cylinder head removal and installation, transmission overhaul, differential service, suspension component replacement, brake caliper and master cylinder rebuilds.

Component Replacements:

Detailed instructions for replacing starter motors, alternators, fuel pumps, water pumps, radiators, radiators, steering racks, CV joints, and more.

Level Of Detail:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications, special tool requirements, and diagnostic parameters.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Typically searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

Resolution:

High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of diagrams, illustrations, and text. Suitable for printing.

Physical Format Analogous:

Spiral-bound or tabbed for ease of use in a workshop environment (digital equivalent offers easy navigation).

Physical Format Analogous:

Durable, laminated pages to withstand workshop conditions (digital format provides instant access).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (M10) or DOHC (M40)

Displacement Liters Early:

1.8 L (M10 based, e.g., M10B18)

Displacement Liters Later:

1.6 L or 1.8 L (M40 based, e.g., M40B16, M40B18)

Horsepower Early M10:

Approximately 98-105 hp (depending on specific M10 variant and market)

Horsepower Later M40:

Approximately 90-102 hp (depending on specific M40 variant and market)

Torque Nm Early M10:

Approximately 135-145 Nm

Torque Nm Later M40:

Approximately 130-140 Nm

Fuel Delivery Early:

Carburetor (e.g., Pierburg 2B4 or 2BE)

Fuel Delivery Later:

Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91 or higher recommended)

ECM Early:

Basic electronic ignition, often no dedicated ECM for fuel on carbureted models.

ECM Later:

Bosch Motronic or similar EFI control unit for fuel and ignition.

🔧 Transmission

Type Standard:

4-speed or 5-speed Manual Transmission

Type Optional:

3-speed or 4-speed ZF Automatic Transmission

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch

Manual Gearbox Oil:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check manual for specific BMW approval codes like SAF-XJ or equivalent)

Automatic Gearbox Oil:

Dexron III / Mercon ATF (or equivalent BMW approved fluid)

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm:

~4325 mm (Sedan)

Width Mm:

~1675 mm

Height Mm:

~1380 mm (Sedan)

Wheelbase Mm:

~2570 mm

Curb Weight Kg:

~1150-1250 kg (depending on body style and equipment)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:

Typically around 1600-1700 kg

Towing Capacity Kg:

Generally not specified for this model variant, but typically limited for smaller engines.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Era:

No standardized global crash test ratings as per modern standards (e.g., NHTSA, Euro NCAP) for early 1980s vehicles.

Braking System Type:

Front: Ventilated discs; Rear: Solid discs

ABS:

Optional on some models and markets

Steering System:

Recirculating ball or Rack-and-pinion (depending on specific model year/variant), power steering often optional.

Seatbelts:

Standard front seatbelts, optional rear seatbelts.

Headrests:

Front and rear headrests standard on most models.

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis and safety cage design characteristic of BMW.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed radio/cassette player (often Blaupunkt or Grundig), typically with basic AM/FM and cassette functionality. Speaker options varied by trim.

Navigation:

Not available during this period.

Cruise Control:

Optional on higher trim levels or later models.

ABS:

Available as an option on some variants.

Auxiliary Inputs:

Not available; aftermarket solutions typically required for modern device connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to specific manual for precise intervals).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000 - 30,000 miles (32,000 - 48,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium if applicable.

Coolant Flush And Replacement:

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

Timing Belt Replacement:

For M40 engines: Approximately every 40,000 - 60,000 miles (64,000 - 96,000 km) or 4-5 years. M10 engines typically use a timing chain which is generally maintenance-free unless worn.

Engine Oil Capacity Liters:

Approximately 4.0 - 4.5 liters (check manual for exact capacity and oil type).

Recommended Engine Oil:

API SG/SH/SJ or ACEA A2/A3, SAE 10W-40 or 5W-30 (check manual for specific BMW approvals).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW specific coolant (e.g., G48) recommended.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Rust And Corrosion:

Common issue, particularly on wheel arches, sills, and jacking points. Thorough inspection is crucial.

Cooling System:

Radiator leaks, thermostat failures, and water pump leaks are common. The plastic expansion tank can become brittle.

Fuel System Early Carbureted:

Carburetor issues (gumming, wear, vacuum leaks) and fuel distributor problems on early injected models.

Electrical Gremlins:

Wiring harness degradation, faulty grounds, and switch failures can lead to intermittent electrical problems.

Suspension Wear:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers are typical wear items.

M40 Engine Specific:

Timing chain stretch and potential valve guide wear are known issues on the M40 engine. The plastic chain tensioner can fail.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused, well-engineered automobiles.

E30 Introduction:

The E30 generation replaced the E21 and was produced from 1982 to 1994, with the 316 being an entry-level model within this highly successful range.

E30 Generations:

The E30 introduced significant advancements over its predecessor, including independent rear suspension and a wider range of engine options.

316 Positioning:

The 316 served as the most accessible model in the E30 lineup, offering the BMW driving experience at a more attainable price point, often featuring simpler engines and fewer luxury options.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary production in Munich, Germany, with some assembly in other international locations.

Total E30 Production:

Over 2.3 million E30s produced globally across all variants.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E30 General Acclaim:

The E30 generation is widely lauded for its driving dynamics and often cited as one of the best driver's cars of its era, contributing to its enduring popularity.

Motorsport Heritage:

The E30 platform achieved significant success in motorsport, including touring car championships and rallying, reinforcing its performance credentials.

Contemporary Reviews:

Consistently received high praise from automotive journalists for its handling, build quality, and performance relative to its class at the time.