🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

528i

Year:

1985

Chassis Code:

E28

Market:

North America (implied by model name and year, likely also applicable to European markets)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive/Luxury Sedan

Philosophy:

BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, emphasizing performance, comfort, and advanced engineering for its era.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ6, Volvo 700 series.

Engineering:

Inline-six engine, rear-wheel drive, sophisticated independent suspension, focus on driver engagement and build quality.

Technology For Era:

Optional ABS, advanced fuel injection (Motronic), power steering, comfortable interior appointments.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for the 1985 BMW 528i (E28 chassis)

Secondary Coverage:

May include applicable sections for other E28 models with similar drivetrain components (e.g., 528e, 535i)

Estimated Page Count:

Likely between 500-1000 pages, typical for a comprehensive factory-level workshop manual of this era.

Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English (assumed for North American market documentation)

Format:

Digital (PDF) or Printed

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, timing, lubrication, cooling system, fuel delivery (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), exhaust system.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system (breakerless electronic), starter motor, alternator, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensors, wiring diagrams.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (Getrag 260), automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22), clutch system, driveline, universal joints, driveshaft.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, brake lines, master cylinder, parking brake.

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, anti-roll bars, steering linkage, power steering system.

Steering:

Recirculating ball steering gearbox, power steering pump and lines, steering column, alignment specifications.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, instrumentation, wipers, horn.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, refrigerant charging, diagnostics.

Body And Trim:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, window regulators, bumpers, glass replacement.

Chassis And Frame:

Frame structure, subframes, mounting points, corrosion protection.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic procedures for various systems, common faults and solutions.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid level checks, belt inspections, brake pad replacement.

Engine Overhaul:

Detailed steps for engine disassembly, component inspection, machining recommendations, and reassembly.

Transmission Repair:

Overhaul procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions, clutch replacement, gear synchro repair.

Brake Service:

Bleeding the brake system, caliper and wheel cylinder replacement, rotor and pad replacement, ABS component testing.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Replacement of shock absorbers, control arms, tie rods, ball joints, power steering pump and rack.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring harness tracing, component testing using multimeters, troubleshooting electrical gremlins, using wiring diagrams.

Bodywork And Trim Removal:

Instructions for removing and reinstalling bumpers, fenders, doors, interior panels, and trim pieces.

Tune Up Procedures:

Spark plug gap and type, ignition timing adjustment, idle speed control, fuel mixture adjustment (where applicable).

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic approaches to diagnosing common problems with symptoms and likely causes.

Depth:

Factory-level, comprehensive. Covers from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures.

Detail Level:

Detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, clearances, special tool requirements, and diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format), typically with searchable text for ease of navigation.

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans of original manuals, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams. Expect original black and white printing.

Binding:

For printed versions: Perfect bound or comb-bound for durability in a workshop environment.

Paper Type:

For printed versions: Durable, matte finish paper suitable for workshop use, resisting oil and grease smudges.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M30B34 (likely for the 528i, though closely related to M30B32 in earlier models and M30B35 in later E28s)

Engine Type:

SOHC Inline 6-cylinder

Displacement:

3.4 liters (3430 cc)

Horsepower:

Approximately 182 hp @ 5500 rpm (may vary slightly by market and specific engine variant)

Torque:

Approximately 220 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (may vary slightly)

Induction:

Bosch Motronic fuel injection (combines fuel injection and ignition control)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane recommended)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Coolant (or compatible ethylene glycol/water mixture, typically 50/50)

Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific recommendations based on climate)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch (for manual transmission)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (or specified BMW fluid)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II (or equivalent ATF specification for ZF 4HP22)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 in)

Width:

Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3200-3400 lbs) depending on transmission and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies, consult specific vehicle VIN plate or manual.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

No standardized crash test ratings (like NHTSA/IIHS) were widely available or mandated in the same way as today. BMW historically focused on passive safety structures.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on the 528i, a significant safety feature for its time.

Traction Control:

Not typically available on the 1985 528i.

Airbags:

Driver airbag was optional or introduced later in the E28 lifecycle, not standard in 1985 for all models. Passenger airbags were not available.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for front occupants, lap belts for rear occupants.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones (front and rear), side-impact beams (in doors).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Period-appropriate Blaupunkt or Becker AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player. Optional premium sound systems available.

Navigation:

Not available.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional on most models.

On Board Computer:

Basic trip computer functions, often integrated into the instrument cluster, showing fuel consumption, range, etc.

Bluetooth Usb:

Not applicable for the era. Aftermarket solutions would be required.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first. Consult manual for precise BMW recommendations.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs; platinum or iridium plugs would have longer intervals if fitted aftermarket.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Timing Belt Replacement:

The M30 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, requiring no regular replacement unless worn or noisy.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact BMW specification)

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II or specified BMW fluid

Cooling System:

Degradation of plastic radiator tanks, water pump impeller wear, thermostat failure, aging hoses.

Fuel System:

Clogged fuel injectors, failing fuel pump, degradation of rubber fuel lines.

Electrical System:

Corrosion on electrical connectors, failing voltage regulator, aging wiring harness insulation, dashboard illumination issues.

Suspension:

Worn control arm bushings, failing rear trailing arm bushings (critical for alignment and stability), worn ball joints and tie rod ends.

Bodywork:

Rust formation, particularly in wheel wells, rocker panels, and around windows.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long history of producing driver-focused, performance-oriented sedans and coupes since its inception, with a strong emphasis on engineering excellence and a reputation for reliable engines.

E28 Introduction:

The E28 chassis succeeded the E12 5 Series. It was introduced in 1981 and represented a significant evolution in styling, aerodynamics, and technology, building on the foundation of its predecessor.

E28 Lifecycle:

The E28 generation was produced from 1981 to 1988. The 528i designation specifically referred to models equipped with the 2.8L or 3.2L/3.4L engines, depending on the market and year. The 1985 model year places it firmly within the mid-cycle of the E28's production.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany (Dingolfing), with potential for CKD assembly in other markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

The E28 generation, including the 528i, was widely praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, refinement, and build quality, often cited as a benchmark in its class during the mid-1980s.

Reliability Perception:

Generally perceived as a reliable and well-engineered vehicle, though maintenance is crucial due to its complex systems for the time. Early models had some early electrical issues and cooling system vulnerabilities that were refined over the E28's production run.