Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional technicians seeking in-depth knowledge of the E30 318i.
Competitors 1987:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Volvo 240, Acura Integra, Ford Sierra
Vehicle Philosophy:
Driver-focused, balanced handling, durable engineering, premium build quality.
Vehicle Coverage:
All 1987 BMW 318i models, engines, trim levels, and transmission types
Estimated Page Count:
800-1200 (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Manual Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals (M10B18), fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), ignition, exhaust, cooling, lubrication
Drivetrain:
Manual and automatic transmissions, clutch, driveshafts, differential, axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arm), steering, brakes (front discs, rear drums or discs), wheel alignment
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instrumentation, HVAC controls, power accessories, wiring diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, doors, windows, seats, trim, HVAC system (mechanical and electrical components)
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), belt adjustments/replacement, chassis lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, starting problems, cooling system malfunctions, brake system issues
Repair:
Engine component replacement (e.g., head gasket, water pump, alternator, starter), transmission overhaul, brake system repair (calipers, master cylinder), suspension component replacement (shocks, bushings), fuel system component repair/replacement
Diagnostics:
Fault code interpretation (where applicable), electrical testing procedures, component testing (e.g., fuel injectors, ignition coil), mechanical engine diagnostics
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance, detailed diagnostics, component-level repair, and full rebuild procedures for all major vehicle systems.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.0 mm x 71.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 or 9.5:1 (depending on market/specific tune)
Horsepower:
101 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
106 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Fuel Injection (L-Jetronic or Motronic depending on production date)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating specified in manual)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (Breakerless)
Cooling System Type:
Water-Cooled
Oil Capacity:
4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter (verify in manual)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
10W-40 or 15W-40 (refer to manual for specific climate recommendations)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Manual
Transmission Type:
3-Speed Automatic (e.g., ZF 3HP22)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulic actuation
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., Castrol EPX 80W-90 - verify specific BMW spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (verify specific BMW spec for ZF unit)
Safety Standards Era:
Designed to meet 1980s safety standards.
Braking System:
Front: Ventilated Disc, Rear: Disc or Drum (depending on model variant). ABS was an option on later E30s but less common on the '87 318i.
Steering System:
Power-assisted recirculating ball or rack-and-pinion (depending on specific market build).
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners (front seats).
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional premium sound system (e.g., Blaupunkt).
Display:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, coolant temperature. Warning lights for system status.
ABS:
Optional on some late 1987 models, primarily four-wheel ABS on M3/M5 but less common on 318i.
Cruise Control:
Optional feature.
Connectivity Features:
None (pre-digital era).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (verify in manual for specific driving conditions).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles (depends on plug type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
M10B18 uses a timing chain, not a belt, so no replacement interval for the chain itself, but tensioner/guides should be inspected.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, BMW Blue or Green coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendation and change interval).
Common Problems Engine:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), coolant leaks (hose connections, water pump seal), fuel injector issues, idle control valve problems.
Common Problems Chassis:
Worn suspension bushings (control arm, trailing arm), ball joint wear, differential seal leaks, driveshaft center bearing failure, seized brake calipers.
Common Problems Electrical:
Instrument cluster issues (fuel gauge, tachometer), faulty door lock actuators, wiring harness degradation, alternator/starter motor issues.
Common Issues Body:
Rust (wheel arches, rocker panels, window seals), sagging headliner, cracked dashboard.
Bmw Philosophy:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG known for performance, engineering, and sporting sedans ('Ultimate Driving Machine').
E30 Introduction:
The E30 platform replaced the E21 and was a significant step forward in design and engineering, becoming one of BMW's most successful models.
318I Positioning:
The 318i represented the entry-level model in the E30 range, offering BMW's signature handling and build quality at a more accessible price point, often featuring the reliable M10 engine.
Production Years E30:
1982-1994
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), South Africa, Austria, Thailand, USA (Spartanburg for later models).
E30 Legacy:
The E30 generation is widely regarded as one of BMW's finest, praised for its timeless design, driving dynamics, and build quality. It won numerous accolades during its production run and remains a highly desirable classic.
Historical Reviews:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its handling, ride comfort, and overall refinement compared to its contemporaries.
