Market Position:
The BMW 5 Series (E28) in 1985 represented BMW's entry into the mid-size luxury executive sedan market, positioned as a premium, performance-oriented alternative to established German and American rivals. The 518 and 518i models offered a more accessible entry point into the 5 Series range.
Competitors:
Key competitors included the Mercedes-Benz W123/W124, Audi 100, Volvo 240, and higher-end models from Jaguar and American manufacturers.
Key Features:
Renowned for its superior handling, driver-focused cockpit, solid build quality, and a reputation for engineering excellence. The E28 chassis offered a more refined driving experience compared to its predecessor.
Value Proposition:
This workshop manual is essential for owners and independent mechanics seeking to maintain, repair, and troubleshoot the 1985 BMW 518/518i (E28). It provides the necessary technical expertise to keep these classic vehicles running optimally and preserves their value.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic for 518i), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Manual (Getrag 5-speed) and Automatic (ZF 4-speed) transmission diagnosis, repair, and overhaul, including clutch service and driveshaft.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (MacPherson struts, independent rear suspension), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, steering box/rack and pinion, power steering system.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (typical for 518), brake system diagnosis, caliper and wheel cylinder repair, brake fluid flushing, parking brake system.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, lighting systems, starter, alternator, battery, instrument cluster, power windows, central locking (if equipped), troubleshooting electrical faults.
Body:
Body panel repair and replacement, door and window mechanisms, seals, interior trim removal and installation, bumper repair.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant system.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments, fluid checks and changes.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for engine performance, electrical issues, and mechanical failures.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including torque specifications and special tool requirements.
Diagnostics:
Engine timing, compression testing, fuel pressure testing, vacuum leak detection, electrical system testing.
Depth:
Comprehensive overhaul and rebuild procedures, advanced diagnostic techniques, including detailed torque specifications, clearances, and tolerances.
518 Engine Type:
M10 Inline-4 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
518 Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
518 Bore X Stroke:
89 mm x 71 mm
518 Compression Ratio:
8.3:1 (approx.)
518 Horsepower:
90 PS (89 bhp) @ 5500 rpm
518 Torque:
140 Nm (103 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm
518I Engine Type:
M10 Inline-4 Cylinder, Fuel Injection
518I Engine Code:
M10B18 (with Bosch L-Jetronic)
518I Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
518I Bore X Stroke:
89 mm x 71 mm
518I Compression Ratio:
9.5:1 (approx.)
518I Horsepower:
102 PS (101 bhp) @ 5800 rpm
518I Torque:
145 Nm (107 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
518 Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Solex 31 PICT or equivalent)
518I Fuel System:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (95 RON recommended)
Ignition System:
Distributor-based electronic ignition system.
518 Standard Transmission:
4-speed Manual Transmission
518I Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 260)
518 Optional Transmission:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 3HP22)
518I Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 4HP22)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulic actuation.
Transmission Fluid Spec:
ATF Dexron III/Mercon (for automatic), SAE 75W-90 GL-4 or GL-5 (for manual - consult manual for exact spec).
Safety Testing Era:
Safety testing standards were less stringent in 1985; specific crash test ratings from modern organizations are not directly applicable but E28 chassis was known for its rigid structure.
Passive Safety:
Reinforced safety cell, energy-absorbing steering column, padded dashboard, three-point seatbelts (front, rear optional).
Active Safety:
Four-wheel disc brakes (on some later E28 models, typically higher trims; 518/518i may have rear drums), effective braking system.
Infotainment System:
Basic analogue dashboard instrumentation, optional AM/FM radio with cassette player. No advanced infotainment systems by modern standards.
Driver Assistance:
ABS was an option on some E28 models, but not standard on the 518/518i. Primarily focused on the driving experience rather than electronic aids.
Connectivity:
None by modern standards. External connectivity would be limited to radio reception.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-15,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first (consult manual for specific interval).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km) for standard plugs; consult manual for specific type and interval.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check manual for precise viscosity based on climate).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0-4.5 liters (4.2-4.8 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Issues:
Rust (especially around wheel arches, rocker panels, and jacking points), cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), aging rubber bushings (suspension, mounts), fuel injection system issues (injector seals, fuel pump), electrical system glitches (corroded grounds, aging wiring harness), starter motor solenoid failure, seized brake calipers.
Brand Heritage:
BMW's heritage is rooted in aviation engines, evolving into a renowned manufacturer of sporting sedans and motorcycles. Known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan, emphasizing performance and engineering.
E28 Generation:
The E28 generation (1981-1988) succeeded the E12. It featured cleaner styling, improved aerodynamics, and enhanced engineering, building upon the '5 Series' reputation for sporty luxury.
518 518I Positioning:
The 518 and 518i were the entry-level models in the E28 lineup, offering a more fuel-efficient and affordable option while still embodying BMW's core driving dynamics. The 'i' denotes the adoption of fuel injection, improving performance and emissions.
Production Period:
The E28 generation was produced from 1981 to 1988. The 1985 model year falls within the core production run.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany (Munich and Dingolfing plants), with some assembly in other international locations.
