🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5-series

Chassis Code:

E28

Model Year:

1985

Market Segment:

Executive Sedan

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The E28 5-series represented BMW's commitment to sporting luxury and driving dynamics in the executive sedan segment, directly competing with Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi 100/200.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W124 (E-Class), Audi Type 44 (100/200), Volvo 700 Series, Jaguar XJ

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and rear-wheel-drive bias, offering a superior driving experience compared to many contemporaries.

Build Quality:

Exemplified BMW's reputation for robust engineering and high-quality materials, leading to excellent longevity when properly maintained.

Value Proposition:

Provides the exact technical information needed to maintain, diagnose, and repair the BMW E28, empowering owners and independent specialists with dealership-level knowledge.

📋 Manual Details

Comprehensive Coverage:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Estimated Page Count:

Over 800 pages (typical for comprehensive factory manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print (likely bound, possibly comb or spiral bound for ease of use in a workshop)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, timing systems, valve train

Engine Management:

Fuel injection systems (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic variants), ignition systems, emission controls, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics and repair

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox overhaul, shifting mechanisms, lubrication

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission disassembly, assembly, hydraulic control, torque converter, valve body, troubleshooting

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, anti-roll bars, alignment specifications

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, lubrication, troubleshooting

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake calipers, brake pads, rotors, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, ignition system, lighting system, instrumentation, horn, power windows, mirrors, central locking

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, glass, seals, chassis lubrication, rust prevention

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:

HVAC system components, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant circuits, climate control panel

Basic Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and adjustment

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed instructions for complete engine, transmission, and major component rebuilds

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems

Depth:

Factory-level diagnostic and repair information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Quality:

N/A (Assumed Print Format)

Print Quality:

High-resolution text and diagrams, designed for clarity in a workshop environment

Binding:

Likely perfect bound or spiral/comb bound for durability and lay-flat usability

Paper Type:

Durable, high-quality paper stock, resistant to workshop grease and oils

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes Covered:

M30 (e.g., 528e, 533i, 535i) and M10/M20 (e.g., 524d, 525e, 528i, 535i - specific to 1985 model year variants)

M30 Engine Variants:

2.8L (M30B28), 3.2L (M30B32), 3.4L (M30B34)

M20 Engine Variants:

2.7L (M20B27 'Eta'), 2.5L (M20B25), 2.8L (M20B28)

M10 Engine Variants:

2.4L Diesel (M21D24 - for 524d)

Typical Horsepower Range:

120 hp (520i) to 211 hp (M535i/535i)

Typical Torque Range:

164 lb-ft (520i) to 224 lb-ft (535i)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic, LE-Jetronic, or Motronic fuel injection systems depending on engine and market. Carbureted versions were less common in North America.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating specifications detailed in manual)

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

4-speed or 5-speed Getrag manual transmission

Optional Transmission Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

Driveshaft:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW recommended gear oil specifications (e.g., GL-4 rated, viscosity grade as per manual)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-II or equivalent ATF fluid

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4700-4750 mm (185-187 in)

Width:

Approx. 1700-1720 mm (67-67.7 in)

Height:

Approx. 1410-1430 mm (55.5-56.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2795 mm (110 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1400-1550 kg (3086-3417 lbs) depending on engine and equipment

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle placard or manual for specific GVWR

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

As a vehicle from 1985, formal NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings in the modern sense are not available. E28 was engineered with significant safety considerations for its era, including a safety-cell design and impact-absorbing zones.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional on some models and standard on higher trims or later production.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts

Head Restraints:

Height-adjustable front and rear head restraints

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column for improved impact protection

Fuel Tank Protection:

Protected fuel tank design

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player, often with premium sound options from manufacturers like Blaupunkt or Becker.

Instrument Cluster:

Comprehensive analog gauges including tachometer, speedometer, fuel level, engine temperature, and oil pressure. Check control panel for system status alerts.

Cruise Control:

Optional electronic cruise control system

Features:

In 1985, connectivity was limited to basic automotive electronics. Later models offered optional features like onboard computers.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual will provide specific guidance.

Timing Belt Replacement:

The M30 and M20 engines use timing chains, which are generally considered lifetime components but require inspection for stretch or wear. The M21 diesel engine uses a timing belt with a recommended replacement interval (refer to manual).

Major Service Points:

Spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid change, differential fluid change.

Engine Oil Type:

Refer to manual for viscosity grade (e.g., 10W-40, 20W-50) and API service classification. Often specified as BMW High Performance or equivalent.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. BMW Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid

Rust Susceptibility:

Common rust areas include wheel arches, rocker panels, door bottoms, and rear valence. Thorough inspection and preventative treatment are key.

Cooling System Leaks:

Degradation of hoses, radiator, and water pump seals due to age. Expansion tank, thermostat housing, and heater core are common failure points.

Fuel Injector Seals:

Leaking injector seals can cause rough idle and fuel smell, particularly on early Motronic systems.

Rear Axle Bushings:

Wear in the rear subframe mounting bushings and trailing arm bushings can lead to poor handling and clunking noises.

Window Regulators:

Electric and manual window regulators can become stiff or break with age.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused sedans with superior handling and engineering prowess, a lineage the E28 significantly contributed to.

Predecessor:

BMW E12 (First generation 5-series)

Successor:

BMW E34 (Second generation 5-series)

Production Years:

1981-1988 (E28 platform)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing plant primarily), South Africa, Mexico, Thailand, Egypt, Indonesia, Malaysia

E28 M5:

The E28 chassis also housed the legendary M5 (E28S) variant, powered by the M88/3 engine, considered one of the finest sports sedans of its era.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Critical Acclaim:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and refined engineering, cementing BMW's reputation in the executive sedan market.

Reliability Perception:

While requiring diligent maintenance, E28s are known for their robust mechanicals and ability to achieve high mileage when cared for, often perceived as a reliable German car.

Manufacturing Standards:

Built to stringent German automotive manufacturing standards, emphasizing durability and precision.