BMW 518i 1985 Workshop Repair Service Manual

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🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 518i Year: 1985 Chassis Code: E28 Market Segment: Executive Car / Luxury Sedan 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The BMW 518i (E28) represented...

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Type: Car

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Sku: 434483

Tags: 1985 518i BMW Car Cars Misc

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Description

🏷️ Basic Information

Identification

Make:

Model:

Year:

Chassis Code:

Market Segment:

Executive Car / Luxury Sedan

👋 Introduction

Market Position

Positioning:

The BMW 518i (E28) represented BMW's entry-level executive sedan in the mid-1980s, offering the brand's renowned driving dynamics and build quality at a more accessible price point.

Competitive Analysis

Competitors:

Competed against models like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 100, and Jaguar XJ6, emphasizing a sporty driving experience.

Key Features

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive platform, and engaging handling characteristics.

Build Quality:

Typical BMW build quality of the era, known for durability and premium materials.

Engine Options:

Primarily featured the M10 engine family, known for its robustness and efficiency for its displacement.

Manual Value

Utility:

Essential for owners and independent mechanics seeking to maintain, repair, or restore the 1985 BMW 518i, providing factory-level technical data.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas

Coverage:

All Models, All Engines, All Trim Levels, All Transmission Types for 1985 BMW 518i

Page Count

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 1500+

Manual Type

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language

Language:

English

Format

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered

Engine:

Complete overhaul, tuning, fuel injection (L-Jetronic), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control.

Transmission:

Manual (Getrag 260) and Automatic (ZF 4HP22) transmission repair, overhaul, fluid specifications, and troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive system, differential, driveshaft, CV joints, axle shafts.

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, rear independent trailing arm suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

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

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or optional rear discs), hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake pad replacement, fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, fuses, relays, diagnostic procedures, instrument cluster.

Bodywork:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, window regulators, seals, rust repair guidance.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system servicing, refrigerant handling (R12), component testing.

Procedures Included

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, coolant flushes, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments, ignition timing, fuel filter replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, fault finding for engine performance, electrical issues, starting problems, and drivability concerns.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul for all major vehicle systems.

Diagnostics:

Information on testing sensors, actuators, ECUs, and diagnostic port functions.

Technical Depth

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance, intermediate repairs, and complete engine/transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format

File Type:

Searchable:

Yes (typically, depending on original scan quality)

Print Quality

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory manuals

Binding Type

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine

Engine Code:

M10B18

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1766 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

89.0 mm x 71.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1 or 9.5:1 (depending on market/specific variant)

Performance

Horsepower:

90 HP (67 kW) @ 5500 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

130 Nm (96 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (approx.)

Fuel System

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection

Ignition System

Ignition:

Distributor-based electronic ignition system

Cooling System

Cooling Type:

Water-cooled, pressurized system

Lubrication System

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter

Maintenance

Valve Adjustment Interval:

Recommended every 15,000-20,000 miles (or as per manual)

🔧 Transmission

Standard

Type:

4-Speed Manual (Getrag 260)

Optional

Type:

4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)

Features

Drive Type:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

Manual Fluid

Fluid Type:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., Castrol EPX 80W-90)

Automatic Fluid

Fluid Type:

Dexron II (or equivalent ATF)

📐 Dimensions

Exterior

Length:

4700 mm (185.0 in)

Width:

1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

1415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase:

2755 mm (108.5 in)

Weights

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1300-1350 kg (2866-2976 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Approx. 1850 kg (4079 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings

NHTSA Rating:

Not formally rated by NHTSA in its current form; era-specific safety standards.

Active Features

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on later models or specific trims.

Passive Features

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seatbelts, lap belts in rear.

Crumple Zones:

Designed with front and rear crumple zones for improved impact absorption.

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column designed to mitigate occupant injury in a frontal collision.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment

Radio:

Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player; often upgraded in aftermarket.

Speakers:

Standard speaker configurations, often front and rear.

Driver Assistance

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system available on many models.

Trip Computer:

Some models may have featured a basic trip computer.

Connectivity

Original Connectivity:

N/A (no modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB found in original specification).

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals

Oil Change:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (or 12-18 months), depending on driving conditions and oil used.

Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000 miles (typically Bosch W7DC or equivalent).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.

Fluid Specifications

Engine Oil:

API SG or SF, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (depending on climate). Refer to manual for precise recommendations.

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II (or equivalent).

Known Issues

Rust:

Common rust areas include wheel arches, rocker panels, around the sunroof, and rear window seal. Proper undercoating and rust prevention are key.

Fuel Injector Leaks:

Bosch injectors can degrade over time, leading to leaks or poor spray patterns. Rebuild or replacement may be necessary.

Heater Core:

The heater core is prone to leaking, often indicated by a sweet smell inside the cabin and coolant residue on the windshield.

Idle Control Valve:

Can become clogged or fail, leading to rough idling or stalling.

Preventative Maintenance

Timing Belt:

Note: The M10B18 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, which is generally more durable but still requires inspection for wear and tension.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage

Heritage:

BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) has a long-standing reputation for producing sporty, driver-focused luxury vehicles since its inception in 1916.

Model Evolution

E28 Generation:

The E28 chassis succeeded the E12 5 Series and was produced from 1981 to 1988. It was a significant evolution, offering improved aerodynamics, safety, and technology.

518I Positioning:

The 518i was the entry-level variant of the E28 range, introduced in 1981 to broaden its appeal, particularly in markets sensitive to engine displacement and taxation.

Production

Production Years:

E28 5 Series: 1981-1988 (518i specific variants may vary slightly by market).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany (Dingolfing plant), with some assembly in other countries.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions

Automotive Press:

The E28 5 Series, in general, received critical acclaim for its driving dynamics, engineering, and build quality from automotive publications of its time.

Model Reputation:

The 518i cemented BMW's reputation for producing well-engineered, reliable luxury sedans, even in its base configuration.

Certifications

Factory Standard:

The manual adheres to factory service standards for the E28 platform.