Market Position:
The E28 5-series represented BMW's mid-size executive sedan, known for its sporty driving dynamics, refined luxury, and robust engineering, competing against rivals like Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi 100.
Key Features:
The E28 was a significant evolution from its E12 predecessor, featuring improved aerodynamics, updated interior design, and a wider range of powerful inline-six engines, setting benchmarks for handling and driver engagement in its class.
Manual Value:
This manual is invaluable for owners and independent workshops seeking to perform accurate, dealer-level maintenance and repairs, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the E28.
Systems Covered:
Engine (all variants), Transmission (manual & automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS & standard), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Electrical System (including wiring diagrams), Body & Chassis, Interior & Exterior Trim, Climate Control, Diagnostics & Troubleshooting
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, preventative maintenance, diagnostics, troubleshooting, component removal and installation, adjustments, repairs, rebuilds, fluid changes, electrical troubleshooting, bodywork repair, climate control servicing
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive (suitable for dealership technicians, covering detailed procedures, specifications, and diagnostic flows)
Diagnostic Procedures:
Detailed diagnostic charts, fault code interpretation (if applicable to the 1988 systems), troubleshooting flowcharts for electrical and mechanical issues.
Body And Chassis Repair:
Includes procedures for rust repair, panel replacement, alignment specifications, and welding guidelines.
Electrical System Diagrams:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all major systems, including engine management, lighting, power accessories, and instrument cluster.
Binding Type:
Likely Spiral-bound or Perfect-bound for durability in a workshop environment
Paper Type:
Durable, coated paper stock to withstand workshop conditions
Print Quality:
High-quality printing with clear diagrams, illustrations, and text
Manual Completeness:
Complete factory service manual covering all aspects of vehicle maintenance, repair, and diagnostics for the specified model year and chassis.
Illustrations And Diagrams:
Extensive line drawings, exploded views, torque specifications, and detailed electrical wiring diagrams.
Primary Engine Variants Covered:
Likely includes M20 6-cylinder (2.0L, 2.3L, 2.7L 'eta'), M30 6-cylinder (3.2L, 3.5L), and potentially M10 4-cylinder for specific markets/models (e.g., 518i).
Engine Architecture:
Inline-6 (most common), Inline-4 (less common)
Fuel System:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection systems
Engine Management:
Electronic engine control units (ECU) for fuel and ignition timing
Typical Horsepower Range:
120 hp (518i) to 218 hp (M5)
Typical Torque Range:
160 Nm (518i) to 330 Nm (M5)
Cylinder Head Design:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) for M20 engines, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) for M30 engines (later M30 variants)
Standard Transmission:
4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission (e.g., Getrag 260)
Optional Transmission:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP22)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulic actuation
Differentials:
Open differential, optional limited-slip differential (LSD)
Typical Gear Ratios 5 Speed:
First gear: ~3.7; Fifth gear: ~0.81. Specific ratios vary by transmission model (e.g., Getrag 260).
Length:
Approx. 4.75 - 4.8 meters (187 - 189 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1.70 - 1.75 meters (67 - 69 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1.40 - 1.42 meters (55 - 56 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1350 - 1550 kg (2976 - 3417 lbs) depending on engine and equipment
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 450 - 500 liters (15.9 - 17.7 cu ft)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2.79 meters (109.8 inches)
Front Track:
Approx. 1.42 meters (55.9 inches)
Rear Track:
Approx. 1.44 meters (56.7 inches)
Active Safety Features:
Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), independent suspension for predictable handling
Passive Safety Features:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones, padded interior, safety steering column, seat belts
Crash Test Era Context:
While formal crash test ratings like NHTSA/IIHS were less standardized and publicized than today, the E28 was engineered to high safety standards for its era, emphasizing structural integrity.
Infotainment System:
Basic analog or digital AM/FM radio, cassette player. Optional premium sound systems from Blaupunkt or Nakamichi.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS (optional), cruise control (optional), power steering.
Connectivity Features:
Limited to basic antenna connections for audio systems. No modern connectivity features.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, subject to driving conditions. Consult manual for exact intervals.
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plugs, fuel filter, air filter usually at 30,000-60,000 km intervals. Timing belt (if applicable to specific engines) requires strict adherence to mileage/age intervals.
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 10W-40, 15W-50, 20W-50) and API service classification (e.g., SE, SF, SG). BMW's own specifications might be listed.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW blue or green coolant.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, specific viscosity dependent on transmission type (e.g., 75W-90, 80W-90).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-II or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid), consult manual for specific BMW P/N or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or specific power steering fluid as per BMW recommendation.
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 gear oil, typically 75W-90 or 80W-90. Limited slip differentials may require specific friction modifier additives.
Common Wear Items:
Front suspension bushings, trailing arm bushings, fuel accumulators, fuel pumps, idle control valves, MAF sensors (if applicable), dashboard warning lights (pixels), headliner sagging, door seal degradation.
Electrical Common Faults:
Wiring harness degradation (especially around engine bay), fuse box corrosion, starter motor issues, alternator failures, window regulator problems.
Engine Common Faults:
Head gasket leaks (particularly on higher mileage M30 engines), oil seal leaks, coolant leaks from hoses and radiator, vacuum leaks affecting idle quality.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Example: Mann-Filter W 923/1, Mahle OC 216 (Verify with specific engine code).
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Example: Mann-Filter C 23 400, Mahle LX 128 (Verify with specific engine code).
Fuel Filter Part Number Example:
Example: Bosch 0 450 905 007 (Verify with specific engine code and fuel system).
Brand Heritage:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) has a long history of producing high-quality, performance-oriented vehicles, renowned for their 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos.
Model Evolution:
The E28 succeeded the E12 and was produced from 1981 to 1988. It was later succeeded by the E34. The E28 was the first 5-series to offer a diesel engine and an M5 version.
Production Years:
1981-1988
Notable Variants:
525i, 535i, M535i, M5 (E28 S38)
