Positioning:
Premium executive sedan targeting discerning drivers
Brand Image:
Reputation for performance, luxury, and build quality
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W123/W124, Audi 5000, Jaguar XJ6
Key Differentiators:
Superior driving dynamics, sophisticated engineering, inline-6 engine refinement
Vehicle Focus:
Performance, comfort, and driver engagement
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to maintain and repair their classic BMW, preserving value and performance
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting, diagnostics, electrical system diagrams
Estimated Page Count:
Comprehensive (exact count not specified, but implied to be extensive for full factory coverage)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual (Workshop Manual)
Engine Mechanical:
Full disassembly, assembly, timing, valve train, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (Bosch L-Jetronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant passages, fan, hoses
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, lubrication passages, oil pressure
Ignition System:
Distributor, spark plugs, ignition coils, control module (if applicable)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS if equipped), driveshaft, differential
Electrical System:
Starter motor, alternator, battery, lighting, dashboard instruments, power windows, central locking, fuse box locations, relays
Emission Control:
Air injection system, catalytic converter, EGR system (if applicable), emission control related sensors and valves
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim components (general repair and adjustment)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault finding, troubleshooting charts
Diagnostics:
Inspection and testing procedures for various systems
Rebuilds:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Adjustments:
Carburetor (if applicable), ignition timing, valve clearances, parking brake
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail suitable for both DIY and professional mechanics
Detail Level:
Includes exploded views, detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and precise measurements
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2788 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 98.0 mm (Typical for M30B28)
Compression Ratio:
8.3:1 or 9.2:1 (Depending on variant/market)
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
181 hp @ 5800 rpm (Approximate for M30B28)
Torque:
230 Nm (169 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (Approximate for M30B28)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type Recommendation:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline
Fuel Pump Type:
In-tank electric fuel pump
Transmission Type:
4-speed Manual (Getrag 265)
Transmission Type:
3-speed ZF 3HP22 Automatic
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in manual (e.g., 3.77:1 - 1st, 2.11:1 - 2nd, 1.40:1 - 3rd, 1.00:1 - 4th)
Automatic Features:
Torque converter lock-up, hydraulic control
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW Approved MTF LT-2 or equivalent (Refer to manual for exact spec and capacity)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 or equivalent (Refer to manual for exact spec and capacity)
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/cassette player, often with upgrade options for higher trim levels
Dashboard:
Classic analog gauges for speed, RPM, fuel, temperature, oil pressure; driver information system on some later models
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system
Connectivity Features:
N/A by modern standards; focus on core automotive engineering
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually (refer to manual for specific guidance)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 20,000-30,000 miles (30,000-50,000 km)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (Refer to manual for exact viscosity based on temperature)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (Refer to manual for specific type and flush interval)
Common Complaints:
Cooling system leaks (hose degradation, head gasket), fuel pump failure, idle control issues, rust (wheel arches, sills), electrical gremlins
Preventative Maintenance:
Regular inspection of cooling system hoses and connections, keeping electrical contacts clean, timely replacement of wear items
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, engineering excellence
E28 Introduction:
Introduced in 1981 as the successor to the E12 5-Series, featuring significant styling and engineering updates.
E28 Updates:
Received updates throughout its production run, including engine refinements and cosmetic tweaks.
E28 Legacy:
Considered one of the most iconic BMW sedans, praised for its handling and build quality, laying the groundwork for future 5-Series generations.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (Dingolfing Plant)
Total Production E28:
Over 700,000 units worldwide across all variants
