Target Audience:
Discerning drivers seeking performance, luxury, and engineering excellence
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ6
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, responsive steering, and comfortable ride
Engine Performance:
Powerful inline-six engine offering strong torque and smooth acceleration
Build Quality:
Typical BMW build quality with robust construction and durable materials
Design Philosophy:
Classic BMW 'kidney grille' design, aerodynamic profile, and functional interior
Engine:
Complete overhaul, timing, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission service, repair, and overhaul
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, differential, axles, and CV joints
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, bushings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake calipers, rotors, pads, lines
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, fuses, relays
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, exhaust pipes, gaskets
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, chassis repair, door mechanisms, glass
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system service and repair
Interior:
Dashboard, seating, trim panels, instrumentation
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, fluid checks and top-offs
Tune Up:
Detailed tune-up procedures for optimal engine performance
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues
Component Replacement:
Removal and installation of major and minor components
Recalibration:
Procedures for recalibrating sensors and systems as needed
Specifications And Tolerances:
Detailed torque specifications, clearances, and measurements
Depth Level:
Expert-level, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers
Diagnostic Tools:
Reference to required diagnostic tools and equipment
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and detailed electrical wiring schematics
Rebuild Instructions:
Full engine and transmission rebuild procedures with diagrams
Transmission Type:
Getrag 265 5-speed Manual
Transmission Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic
Manual Gear Ratios:
1st: 4.00, 2nd: 2.10, 3rd: 1.37, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.81, Reverse: 3.55
Automatic Gear Ratios:
1st: 2.48, 2nd: 1.48, 3rd: 1.00, 4th: 0.74, Reverse: 3.14
Clutch Type:
Dry single-plate clutch (Manual)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
4/5 Stars (for period, simulated)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (standard on 535i)
Traction Control:
Optional on some later E28 models, but not standard for 1986 535i
Airbags:
Driver airbag optional, passenger airbag not available
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts
Crumple Zones:
Front and rear energy-absorbing crumple zones
Audio System:
Original BMW E28 audio systems were typically AM/FM radio and cassette player, often with optional premium sound packages.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems were available, featuring basic temperature and fan speed adjustments.
Cruise Control:
Standard feature on most 535i models.
Trip Computer:
Optional on some models, providing basic fuel consumption data.
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features (Bluetooth, USB, etc.); designed for an era before these became standard.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as recommended by plug manufacturer.
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (M30 engines use a timing chain)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 recommended for most climates. Check owner's manual for precise grade.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.7 US quarts (6.3 liters) with filter change
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III/Mercon ATF (or equivalent compatible fluid)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Engine Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, front and rear main seals are common leak points.
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; water pumps and thermostats are also potential failure points.
Fuel Injection System:
Bosch L-Jetronic can develop issues with airflow meter, fuel pump, and injector seals.
Electrical System:
Corrosion in connectors, aging wiring harnesses, and failing relays can cause various electrical gremlins.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber bushings in control arms, sway bars, and trailing arms degrade over time, affecting handling.
Brand Philosophy:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, known for engineering, performance, and luxury since 1916.
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.
535I Introduction:
The 535i designation typically indicated a larger, more powerful engine. For 1986, it featured the M30B34, a potent 3.4-liter inline-six, replacing the earlier 533i's 3.2-liter unit.
Production Period E28:
1981-1988
Production Period 535I:
Included in E28 production, notably from 1985 onwards.