Segment:
Executive sedan, mid-size luxury car
Bmw Philosophy 1980S:
Focus on driving dynamics, engineering excellence, and build quality.
Competitors 1982:
Mercedes-Benz W123, Audi 100, Volvo 240, Jaguar XJ, Saab 900
Driving Experience:
Renowned for BMW's signature handling and responsive steering.
Engine Technology:
Reliable M10 inline-four engine, optimized for efficiency and performance.
Interior Comfort:
Driver-focused cockpit, quality materials, comfortable seating.
Design Heritage:
Modern interpretation of BMW's classic kidney grille and Hofmeister kink.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Workshop
Region Applicability:
Global (mechanics worldwide)
Estimated Pages:
High (full service and repair instruction implies extensive content)
Type:
Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Likely digital (PDF) or printed book, based on common sales practices
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, overhaul for the M10 series engine (including M10B18)
Fuel System:
Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition, coil, distributor, spark plugs
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, water pump, coolant hoses
Exhaust System:
Manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable for market), muffler, pipes
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, gear linkage
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, axle shafts
Suspension:
Front struts, rear shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, springs
Steering:
Steering rack, tie rods, power steering system (if equipped)
Brakes:
Front discs, rear drums/discs, hydraulic system, master cylinder, brake lines, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Bodywork And Chassis:
Body panel repair, chassis alignment, doors, windows, interior trim
Climate Control:
HVAC system, blower motor, heater core, A/C system (if equipped)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based fault finding
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, alignment settings
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all systems
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Target Audience:
Professional mechanics and skilled DIY enthusiasts
Format Details:
If digital, likely PDF. Searchable text and clear diagrams are crucial for usability.
Quality:
High-resolution scans with clear, legible text and diagrams are essential for effective repair.
Binding:
If printed, a durable binding (e.g., spiral-bound, hardcover) suitable for workshop use.
Paper:
If printed, durable, oil-resistant paper is preferred for workshop environments.
Engine Type:
Inline-4, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
1766 cc (1.8 Liters)
Horsepower:
Approx. 90 PS (89 hp / 66 kW) @ 5300 RPM (Varies by market and specific tune)
Torque:
Approx. 140 Nm (103 lb-ft) @ 3000 RPM (Varies by market and specific tune)
Injection Type:
Bosch L-Jetronic (Electronic Fuel Injection)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (Gasoline)
Ignition:
Electronic Ignition (CDI - Capacitive Discharge Ignition)
Cooling Medium:
Water/Glycol mixture
Type:
Hydraulic/rubber engine mounts for vibration isolation
Type:
4-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 242 often)
Type:
3-speed ZF Automatic Transmission
Clutch:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 (e.g., Castrol EPX 80W/90 or equivalent, check specific BMW spec for accuracy)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-II (or BMW equivalent ATF D2)
Length:
Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2770 mm (109.1 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1350 kg (2866-2976 lbs) depending on equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 1850 kg (4079 lbs)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 460 Liters (16.2 cu ft)
Crash Test Era:
Testing standards were less stringent than today; focus on structural integrity and passive safety elements.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (some later E28 models offered rear discs).
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts (front), lap belts (rear)
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column for improved impact protection.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (dependent on driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km), depending on plug type.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km)
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for specific climate recommendations and BMW approvals, e.g., BMW Special Plus).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (e.g., Castrol Brake Fluid DOT 4).
Rust:
Common in wheel arches, sills, door bottoms, and trunk lid due to age and materials.
Fuel Injector Seals:
Can degrade, leading to vacuum leaks and rough idling.
Thermostat Housing Leaks:
Plastic or metal housing can crack or gaskets fail.
Rear Main Seal Leaks:
Common age-related leak on many M10 engines.
Accelerator Linkage Wear:
Can lead to sticky throttle or imprecise acceleration.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' established in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
E28 Introduction:
The E28 generation replaced the E12 5 Series and was produced from 1981 to 1987.
E28 Design:
Designed by Claus Luthe, featuring a more angular and aerodynamic design than its predecessor.
518I Positioning:
The entry-level model in the 5 Series range, offering BMW quality and driving dynamics at a more accessible price point.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also assembled in other locations globally.
