🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Chassis Code:

E28

Model Variants:

528e, 533i

Model Year:

1983

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Technicians, mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to repair or understand the BMW E28 5 Series.

Key Selling Points:

Low price, great quality, instant access, comprehensive coverage, factory data.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Electronic Troubleshooting Manual / Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Coverage Areas:

General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection, Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioner, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service Repair:

Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, assembly, and adjustment for both 528e and 533i models.

Fuel Injection System:

In-depth coverage of the Bosch L-Jetronic (528e) and Motronic (533i) fuel injection systems, including component testing, troubleshooting, and calibration.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive electrical system diagnosis, including component identification, testing procedures, and troubleshooting guides for all circuits.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete and detailed wiring schematics for all vehicle electrical systems, color-coded for clarity.

Transmission Service Repair:

Procedures for manual and automatic transmission servicing, repair, and overhaul.

Brake System:

Detailed information on brake system components, maintenance, repair, and bleeding procedures.

Suspension Steering:

Maintenance and repair procedures for front and rear suspension, steering system components, and alignment specifications.

Cooling Fuel Emission Systems:

Coverage of cooling system maintenance, fuel delivery, and emission control systems.

Chassis Body Interior Restraint:

Information on chassis and body repair, interior trim, and restraint system components.

Troubleshooting:

Specific diagnostic procedures and fault finding charts for common and complex electronic and mechanical issues.

Periodic Maintenance:

Detailed schedules and procedures for routine maintenance tasks like oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for a wide range of repair tasks, from minor adjustments to major component overhauls.

Depth:

Factory-level technical data, diagnostic procedures, and repair specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

Print Quality:

High quality, printable pages.

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac.

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip.

Method:

Instant Download

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M20B27

Engine Type:

2.7L Inline-6, SOHC, Low-Compression

Fuel System:

Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection

Horsepower Est:

121 hp @ 4800 rpm

Torque Est:

170 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Engine Code:

M30B32

Engine Type:

3.2L Inline-6, SOHC, High-Compression

Fuel System:

Bosch Motronic Fuel Injection

Horsepower Est:

182 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque Est:

224 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

🔧 Transmission

Layout:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

Manual Transmission:

Optional (e.g., Getrag 260 5-speed)

Automatic Transmission:

Standard (e.g., ZF 4HP22 4-speed)

📐 Dimensions

E28 528E 533I:

Approx. 188.2 inches (4780 mm)

E28 528E 533I:

Approx. 68.3 inches (1735 mm)

E28 528E 533I:

Approx. 55.5 inches (1410 mm)

E28 528E 533I:

Approx. 104.4 inches (2650 mm)

Curb Weight Est 528E:

Approx. 3350 lbs (1520 kg)

Curb Weight Est 533I:

Approx. 3450 lbs (1565 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts

Head Restraints:

Adjustable front and rear head restraints

Crumple Zones:

Designed with front and rear crumple zones for energy absorption

💡 Technology Features

Radio System:

Often equipped with an optional AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player. Digital tuning was available on higher-end units.

HVAC System:

Manual or optional automatic climate control for heating and air conditioning.

ECU Type:

Early electronic engine control units (ECUs) managing fuel injection and ignition timing.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Frequency:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual, typically around 30,000 miles for older types.

Engine Oil Type 528E:

API SG/SH, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).

Engine Oil Type 533I:

API SG/SH, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW Blue coolant may be specified.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF Dexron-III or equivalent.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Wiring Harness Degradation:

Age-related degradation of the wiring harness, particularly insulation, can lead to electrical faults.

Fuel Injector Issues:

Clogging or failure of fuel injectors, especially in the L-Jetronic systems.

Rust Prone Areas:

Common rust areas include wheel arches, rocker panels, and around the battery tray.

O2 Sensor Failure:

Oxygen sensor failure can impact fuel economy and emissions.

Oil Filter 528E 533I:

BMW Part Number: 11 42 1 269 272 (or equivalent Mahle OX106, Mann W930/21)

Air Filter 528E 533I:

BMW Part Number: 13 72 1 266 267 (or equivalent Mann C23145)

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Known for engineering excellence, sporty driving dynamics, and luxurious interiors.

E28 Introduction:

Introduced in 1981 as the successor to the E12, the E28 represented a refinement in BMW's executive sedan segment, focusing on aerodynamics, efficiency, and advanced technology for its time.

E28 Production Years:

1981-1988