🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

528i

Generation:

E28

Production Years Covered:

1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988

Chassis Code:

E28

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Sedan / Mid-size Luxury Sedan

Target Audience:

Affluent buyers seeking performance, luxury, and German engineering.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W123/W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Volvo 700 series.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, and engaging driving experience.

Build Quality:

Exceptional build quality and robust engineering characteristic of BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy.

Engine Performance:

Smooth, powerful inline-six engines providing ample torque and refinement.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service and Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Overhaul

Estimated Page Count:

Comprehensive (specific count not provided in product info, but implies extensive coverage typical of workshop manuals)

Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, based on typical sales of such manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete engine systems, including M30B34 engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, and component specifications.

Fuel System:

Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, and troubleshooting.

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition system, coil, distributor, spark plugs, and timing procedures.

Transmission:

Manual (Getrag 260) and Automatic (ZF 4HP22) transmissions, clutch service, driveline, driveshaft, and differential.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, ball joints, and wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake lines, pads, rotors, and caliper service.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering box, tie rods, and power steering pump.

Electrical System:

Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, fuses, relays, lighting, and accessory circuits.

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, and heating system.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, and pipes.

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, and chassis components.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service and repair.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul.

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds.

Technical Specifications:

Torque values, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, and electrical specifications.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Aimed at professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing. Searchable text is a common feature.

Resolution:

High-resolution, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (digital format)

Paper:

N/A (digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Variant:

M30B34

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder

Displacement:

3.4 Liters (3430 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 86.0 mm

Horsepower:

Approx. 182-189 hp @ 5500 rpm (depending on market and specific tune)

Torque:

Approx. 214-220 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (depending on market and specific tune)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI) with L-Jetronic

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium)

ECU:

Bosch Motronic

Coolant Type:

BMW recommended ethylene glycol/water mixture (typically 50/50)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed Manual Transmission

Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission

Manual Clutch:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

Torque Converter:

Lock-up torque converter

Gear Oil:

GL-4 rated manual transmission fluid (e.g., Castrol TWS 5W-30 or equivalent)

Atf:

Dexron-III (or equivalent ATF specification)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 191.1 inches (4854 mm)

Width:

Approx. 68.9 inches (1750 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.0 inches (1397 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3400-3600 lbs (1542-1633 kg), varies by transmission and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4450-4550 lbs (2018-2064 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited specific official crash test data available from this era; however, known for robust construction.

ABS:

Available as an option on later models and standard on some configurations. System: Bosch ABS II

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag became available as an option towards the end of the E28's production run.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A and B pillars, strong roof structure

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted cassette player with AM/FM radio, optional CD player.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control).

Cruise Control:

Standard on most 528i models.

Communications:

N/A (No integrated Bluetooth or telematics from factory)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Every 50,000-60,000 miles. Automatic: Every 30,000-50,000 miles

Engine Oil Type:

Synthetic or high-quality conventional oil, viscosity typically 15W-40, 10W-40, or 20W-50 depending on climate. Refer to manual for precise BMW specifications (e.g., BMW Longlife-98 or equivalent).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron-II/III or specific BMW fluid

Common Problems:

Cooling system leaks (hose degradation, plastic radiator tanks), fuel injector seal leaks, worn front suspension bushings, seized heater control valves, fuel pump strain, potential for rust in common areas (wheel wells, rocker panels), ABS sensor issues.

Engine Performance:

Idle control valve issues, vacuum leaks, distributor cap/rotor wear.

Electrical Quirks:

Corrosion on connectors, failing dashboard warning lights, intermittent power to accessories.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for building sporty, driver-focused luxury sedans, carrying forward the legacy of models like the Neue Klasse.

E28 Development:

Successor to the E12 5 Series, introducing significant advancements in technology, aerodynamics, and safety.

E28 Design:

Designed by Paul Bracq, featuring a more angular and aerodynamically refined 'Bangle-era' precursor design.

Production Period:

1981-1988

Manufacturing Locations:

Dingolfing, Germany; Born, Netherlands; and assembly plants in South Africa and the USA.

Key Variants:

528e (Eta), 524td (Diesel), 535i, M535i, and the iconic E28 M5.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver:

Frequently appeared on Car and Driver's Ten Best lists in its production years, lauded for its driving dynamics and value.

Performance Reviews:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its performance, handling, and build quality.

Safety Standards:

Met all applicable safety standards of the era for its target markets.