Positioning:
Luxury Sport Sedan
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Volvo 740/760
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced handling, rear-wheel drive, and driver-focused cockpit.
Build Quality:
Exceptional German engineering and build quality, characteristic of BMW's reputation.
Performance Engine:
Smooth and torquey M30 inline-six engine providing strong acceleration.
Engine:
M30B28 Engine (2.8L Inline-6)
Fuel System:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition
Cooling System:
Radiator, Fan, Water Pump, Thermostat
Exhaust System:
Manifolds, Catalytic Converter, Mufflers
Transmission Manual:
Getrag 260 5-Speed Manual
Transmission Automatic:
ZF 4HP22 4-Speed Automatic
Clutch:
Hydraulic Clutch System
Driveline:
Rear Wheel Drive, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles
Suspension Front:
MacPherson Struts, Control Arms, Sway Bar
Suspension Rear:
Semi-Trailing Arms, Coil Springs, Shock Absorbers
Steering:
Recirculating Ball Power Steering
Brakes Front:
Vented Disc Brakes
Electrical System:
12V System, Alternator, Starter, Battery, Wiring Diagrams
Lighting System:
Headlights, Taillights, Interior Lighting
Body And Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Frame
Interior:
Seats, Dashboard, Trim, HVAC Controls
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC System Operation and Repair
Restraint Systems:
Seat Belts
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Code Interpretation (where applicable)
Repair:
Component Removal, Installation, and Repair
Rebuild:
Engine, Transmission, and Differential Rebuild Procedures
Adjustment:
Valve Adjustment, Carburetor/Fuel Injection Tuning
Calibration:
Sensor Calibration (where applicable)
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics.
Transmission Type:
Getrag 260 5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-Speed Automatic
Manual Gear Ratios:
Typical ratios: 1st 4.00:1, 2nd 2.12:1, 3rd 1.31:1, 4th 1.00:1, 5th 0.81:1, Reverse 3.55:1
Automatic Gear Ratios:
Typical ratios: 1st 2.48:1, 2nd 1.48:1, 3rd 1.00:1, 4th 0.73:1
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate
Differential Type:
Limited Slip Differential (Optional)
NHTSA Rating:
Not rated under modern, standardized testing procedures.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Available on some models.
Traction Control:
Not commonly equipped.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag became standard in later E28 models, but not standard across the entire 1987 model year. Passenger airbag not available.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear.
Crumple Zones:
Designed with front and rear crumple zones for energy absorption.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs; platinum plugs may last longer.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 API SG or higher (check manual for precise viscosity and spec recommendations).
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.7 Liters (6.0 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (Ethylene Glycol based) mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Castrol Syntrans) - 75W-80 or 75W-90 GL-4.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III / Mercon or equivalent ATF fluid.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron III or BMW Power Steering Fluid.
Cooling System:
Degradation of coolant hoses, water pump failure, and thermostat sticking are common due to age.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump failures, clogged injectors, and aging fuel lines are possible.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and rear trailing arm bushings can lead to steering and handling issues.
Electrical:
Aging wiring harness insulation, dashboard warning lights, and potential issues with the instrument cluster are common.
Rust:
Rust can form in wheel wells, rocker panels, and around the sunroof drain channels. Check thoroughly.
Idle Control Valve:
The idle control valve can become clogged or fail, leading to rough idling or stalling.
Heritage:
BMW's legacy of 'Ultimate Driving Machine' with a focus on performance, engineering, and driver engagement.
E28 Generation:
The E28 was the second generation of the BMW 5 Series, produced from 1981 to 1988. It succeeded the E12 and was replaced by the E34.
528I Positioning:
The 528i was positioned as a mid-to-high-range model within the E28 lineup, offering a balance of performance and luxury.
Production Years:
1981-1988 (E28 platform)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing plant)
