Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, valve train, timing system, oil system, cooling system.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (L-Jetronic for 518i), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel tank, throttle body.
Ignition System:
Ignition coil, distributor, spark plugs, ignition control module.
Emission Control:
Catalytic converter, oxygen sensor, EGR system (if applicable), emission control systems for specific markets.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Getrag 260 commonly), clutch assembly, drivetrain components (driveshaft, differential).
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (semi-trailing arms), springs, shock absorbers, bushings, anti-roll bars.
Steering:
Steering rack, power steering system (if equipped), steering column, steering wheel.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc on some models/options), brake hydraulics, parking brake, ABS (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, dashboard instruments, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, underbody, chassis components.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components and service procedures.
Maintenance:
Routine checks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable), symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment for all major systems.
Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds with specifications.
Diagnostics:
Electrical system diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics, component testing.
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, technical data for all components.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive Factory Level (Covers all aspects from routine maintenance to complete overhaul).
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Detailed exploded views, wiring diagrams, schematic diagrams, and step-by-step illustrations.
Diagnostic Charts:
Includes diagnostic flowcharts and tables for systematic problem solving.
Engine Code 518I:
M10B18 (catalyst version)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement Liters:
1.8 L (1766 cc)
Horsepower 518:
Approx. 90 PS (66 kW; 89 hp) at 5500 rpm (DIN)
Torque 518:
Approx. 140 Nm (103 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm (DIN)
Horsepower 518I:
Approx. 90 PS (66 kW; 89 hp) at 5500 rpm (DIN, catalyst version might be slightly detuned depending on market)
Torque 518I:
Approx. 138 Nm (102 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm (DIN, catalyst version)
Fuel Delivery 518:
Carburetor (e.g., Solex 31 PICT-4 or similar)
Fuel Delivery 518I:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per manufacturer recommendation)
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled
Oil Change Interval Km:
Typically 7,500 - 10,000 km (4,500 - 6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification).
Spark Plug Replacement Km:
Intervals vary by plug type; often 20,000 - 40,000 km (12,000 - 25,000 miles) for standard plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement Km:
M10 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, requiring less frequent replacement but checking for tensioner wear.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended for general use. Consult manual for precise viscosity based on climate.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW Blue or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (specific BMW specification recommended).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent (for ZF 3HP22).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common E28 Issues:
Rust (wheel wells, rocker panels, around windows), suspension bushing wear, fuel distributor leaks (on injection models), cooling system component failure (hoses, radiator), vacuum leaks, electrical connector corrosion.
Common M10 Issues:
Oil leaks from seals and gaskets, oil pressure sensor issues, carbon buildup in combustion chambers.
Bmw Heritage:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, well-engineered luxury vehicles with a strong emphasis on performance and handling.
E28 Positioning:
The E28 was the second generation of the BMW 5 Series, succeeding the E12 and preceding the E34. It refined the 'sport sedan' concept introduced by its predecessor.
E28 Production Years:
1981-1988
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany, with some assembly in other international locations.
E28 Sales Figures:
Over 722,000 E28s were produced globally.
518 518I Market Focus:
The 518 and 518i were positioned as entry-level models in many markets, offering BMW quality and driving dynamics at a more accessible price point, particularly in Europe.
