Positioning:
The BMW 518 (E28) represented BMW's entry-level offering in the executive sedan segment during the early 1980s, focusing on efficient performance and BMW's signature driving dynamics. This manual targets owners and independent mechanics who need detailed information to maintain and repair these classic vehicles.
Competitors:
Competed against models like the Mercedes-Benz W123, Audi 100, and Saab 900, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and build quality.
Vehicle Highlights:
Rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, refined interior for its time, and the reliable M10 engine.
Value:
Provides essential, factory-level technical data crucial for accurate diagnosis and repair, empowering users to maintain their E28 518 effectively.
Engine Coverage:
Full engine disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, and repair.
Transmission Coverage:
Manual and automatic transmission servicing, repair, and overhaul.
Electrical System Coverage:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnosis of electrical faults.
Chassis And Suspension Coverage:
Steering, front and rear suspension, wheel alignment, hubs, and bearings.
Braking System Coverage:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic components, ABS diagnosis (if applicable).
Fuel System Coverage:
Fuel injection system (L-Jetronic/Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, and lines.
Cooling System Coverage:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, hoses, and fan operation.
Exhaust System Coverage:
Catalytic converter (if applicable), exhaust manifolds, mufflers, and pipes.
Body And Interior Coverage:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, glass replacement, door mechanisms.
HVAC Coverage:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.
Estimated Pages:
Comprehensive (typically 500-1000+ pages for full workshop manuals)
Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, exhaust, transmission, driveline.
Chassis:
Suspension, steering, brakes, wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Starting and charging system, lighting, instruments, comfort systems, engine management electronics.
Body:
Body structure, exterior panels, interior trim, glass, locks, and mechanisms.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault analysis.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, component replacement.
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostics:
Engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensor testing, actuator testing.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork repairs.
Engine Code:
M10 (M10B18)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
1766 cc (1.8 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
89.0 mm x 71.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.3:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
90 PS (89 bhp) @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
140 Nm (103 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91 or higher recommended)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based)
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled
Oil Capacity:
4.0 Liters (4.2 US Quarts) with filter
Recommended Oil:
SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 (depending on climate), API SG or higher
Transmission Type:
4-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
3-speed ZF Automatic Transmission
Manual Gear Ratios:
Detailed ratios for each gear available in the manual.
Automatic Features:
Torque converter, specific shift patterns.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 GL-4 gear oil
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data available for this era; however, E28 chassis known for robust construction.
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear drums (standard). Optional ABS on later models/higher trims.
Steering:
Recirculating ball steering with optional power assist.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, 2-point rear (early models) or 3-point rear seatbelts.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger safety cell.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-15,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (M10 engine uses a timing chain).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (as specified in manual).
Common Problems:
Rust (particularly around wheel arches, sills, and battery tray), aging rubber hoses and bushings, fuel injection system component wear (fuel pump, injectors), potential head gasket leaks, worn cooling system components (radiator, water pump).
Electrical Quirks:
Older wiring harnesses can become brittle, affecting sensors and lighting. Instrument cluster issues can occur.
Heritage Context:
BMW's long-standing reputation for building driver-focused luxury sedans with strong engineering and performance capabilities.
E28 Generation:
The E28 succeeded the E12 5 Series and was produced from 1981 to 1988. The 518 was the base model, typically featuring the less powerful M10 engine for cost-effectiveness and fuel efficiency.
Production Location:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany.
Sales Performance:
The E28 series was a commercial success, solidifying BMW's position in the mid-size luxury car market.
