Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, BMW owners
Value Proposition:
Provides OEM-level information at a fraction of the cost of professional dealership service
Accessibility:
Instant download, printable format, cross-platform compatibility
Completeness:
Most comprehensive OEM manual available for the E28 generation
Engine Coverage:
All gasoline engines for E28 chassis
Transmission Coverage:
Manual and Automatic transmissions
Chassis Coverage:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Body structure
Electrical Coverage:
Wiring diagrams, ECU diagnostics, lighting, accessories
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 1000+
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, lubrication, cooling
Engine Management:
Fuel injection systems (K-Jetronic, L-Jetronic variants), ignition systems, emission controls
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch, gearbox disassembly/assembly, differential, driveshafts
Suspension Steering:
Front/rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, steering rack, power steering
Brake System:
Brake pad/disc replacement, hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), parking brake
Body Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, seats, glass, doors, locks
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and changes, belt replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilds
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting common faults, diagnostic trouble codes (where applicable), electrical system testing
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing virtually all wear and tear items and major components
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics, including component testing and system troubleshooting
Rebuild Instructions:
Comprehensive step-by-step instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and major assemblies
Specification Detail:
Torque specifications, clearances, timing settings, fluid capacities, and other critical data
Engine Variants Covered:
M20 (2.0L, 2.3L, 2.5L, 2.7L eta), M30 (3.2L, 3.5L)
Typical Horsepower Range:
120 HP to 215 HP (depending on engine variant)
Typical Torque Range:
180 Nm to 300 Nm (depending on engine variant)
Fuel Injection Systems:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS), Bosch L-Jetronic (EFI), Bosch Motronic
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition, distributor-based systems
Standard Transmission Type:
Getrag 5-speed manual (e.g., 260/5, 265/5)
Optional Transmission Type:
ZF 3-speed or 4-speed automatic (e.g., 3HP22, 4HP22)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulic actuation
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,795 mm (110.0 inches)
Length:
Approx. 4,620 mm (181.9 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1,700 mm (66.9 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1,415 mm (55.7 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,300 - 1,500 kg (2,866 - 3,307 lbs), depending on model and options
Crash Test Information:
While official NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings for this era are less detailed, E28 was built to high German safety standards of the time.
ABS Availability:
Optional on many models, standard on later high-performance variants (e.g., M5)
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point inertia reel seatbelts, rear lap and diagonal belts
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones
Radio Options:
Aftermarket head units commonly installed, original BMW Bavaria C or similar cassette/radio units available
Speaker System:
Standard 2-way or 4-way speaker configurations
Cruise Control:
Optional feature on many models
Early Tech Features:
Power windows, central locking, electric sunroof (optional), trip computer (optional on some models)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 - 15,000 miles (12,000 - 24,000 km) or annually, depending on oil type and driving conditions.
Timing Belt Service:
M20 and M30 engines use timing chains, not belts.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2-96, viscosity SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check specific engine and climate)
Coolant Type:
BMW antifreeze/coolant concentrate, mixed 1:1 with distilled water (typically ethylene glycol based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-II or equivalent (e.g., ATF Type 7045E/LT71141 for later models)
Common Problems Engine:
Oil leaks (valve cover, oil pan), cooling system component failure (water pump, thermostat), fuel distributor issues (K-Jetronic), starter solenoid failure
Common Problems Electrical:
Instrument cluster issues (e.g., tachometer, fuel gauge), wiring harness degradation, headlight switch failure
Common Problems Chassis:
Bushings wear (control arms, subframe), strut mount failure, brake wear, rust (especially in wheel arches, rocker panels)
Bmw Legacy:
Continuation of BMW's reputation for luxury, performance, and engineering excellence in the executive sedan segment.
Predecessor:
BMW E12 (First generation 5 Series)
Successor:
BMW E34 (Third generation 5 Series)
Production Years:
1981–1987 (Model years 1982-1988)
Assembly Locations:
Dingolfing, Germany; various CKD assembly plants globally
Notable Variants:
518i, 520i, 524d, 524td, 525e, 525i, 528i, 533i, 535i, M535i, M5 (E28 S38)
Automotive Press Acclaim:
Widely praised by automotive press for its driving dynamics, build quality, and sporty luxury appeal of its era.
Reliability Perception:
Generally considered a reliable vehicle with proper maintenance; however, age-related issues are common.
