🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Model Variant:

528i, 535i, M535i

Chassis Code:

E28

Model Years:

1981-1988

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

BMW E28 owners with basic mechanical aptitude, independent auto repair professionals, and technically-minded car owners seeking informed dialogue with technicians.

Key Features:

Provides dealer-level specifications and procedures, enables informed discussions with mechanics, facilitates independent diagnosis and repair, offers practical solutions to common problems, and includes detailed wiring diagrams and specifications.

Manual Type Advantage:

Offers comprehensive coverage mirroring official BMW workshop manuals, providing a valuable resource for maintaining and repairing classic BMWs.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

General Information, Engine Service and Overhauling, Transmission, Chassis, Body, Wiring, Fuel System, Emission Control, Induction, Mechanical, Control System, Transmission and Differentials, Troubleshooting and Diagnostics, Steering and Suspension, Brakes, ABS, Full Specifications and Torque Settings, Service Work

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Manual Type:

Repair and Service Manual

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic mechanical skills to in-depth diagnostic and repair procedures.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (M30 variants), Drivetrain (Manual & Automatic Transmissions, Differentials), Chassis, Electrical System, Fuel System, Emission Control Systems, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Brake System (including ABS), Steering System, Suspension System, Bodywork, HVAC System.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, troubleshooting common faults, engine rebuilds, transmission repair, brake system overhaul, electrical system diagnostics, suspension and steering alignment, body panel repair, ABS system diagnosis and repair, fuel system cleaning and adjustment, emission control troubleshooting.

Technical Depth:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, specific terminal pin connections and expected readings for wiring diagrams, step-by-step repair instructions, precise torque specifications for critical fasteners, component testing procedures, and detailed overhaul instructions.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages without loss of detail.

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M30B28

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2784 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

86 mm x 96.7 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.3:1 (typical)

Horsepower:

Approx. 184 hp @ 5800 RPM

Torque:

Approx. 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) @ 4200 RPM

Engine Code:

M30B34

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

3.4 Liters (3430 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

92 mm x 86 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1 (typical)

Horsepower:

Approx. 182 hp @ 5500 RPM (US spec), 218 hp @ 5400 RPM (Euro spec)

Torque:

Approx. 290 Nm (214 lb-ft) @ 4000 RPM (US spec), 304 Nm (224 lb-ft) @ 4000 RPM (Euro spec)

Engine Code:

M30B34 (US Spec), M88/3 (Euro Spec)

Displacement:

3.4 Liters (3430 cc for M30B34), 3.5 Liters (3453 cc for M88/3)

Horsepower:

Approx. 182 hp @ 5500 RPM (US M30B34), 218 hp @ 5400 RPM (Euro M30B34), 286 hp @ 6500 RPM (Euro M88/3)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch LE-Jetronic or L-Jetronic fuel injection (depending on model and market)

Induction System:

Naturally aspirated, multi-point fuel injection.

Emission Systems:

Catalytic converter, Lambda sensor (O2 sensor), Air injection system (depending on market and year).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual

Transmission Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic

Transmission Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual

Transmission Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic

Transmission Type:

Getrag 265 5-speed manual (dogleg first gear)

Differential Type:

BMW 'dogleg' limited-slip differential (optional on most models, standard on some M535i)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW recommends ATF D2 or D3 (Dexron III equivalent) or specific manual transmission fluids like Castrol TAF-X. Consult manual for exact spec.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ZF TE-ML 11A/B or equivalent Dexron III (DEXRON-III H is recommended for later models/equivalents)

Differential Fluid:

Hypoid gear oil API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. For LSD, specific LSD oil may be recommended.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4755 mm (187.2 in)

Width:

Approx. 1738 mm (68.4 in)

Height:

Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2795 mm (110.0 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs) depending on engine and options

🛡️ Safety Features

Active Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on later models and as an option, powerful disc brakes all around, sport suspension options.

Passive Features:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones, padded dashboard, seat belts (often with pre-tensioners on later models), optional airbags (rare for the era).

Crash Test Data:

Data from this era is limited by modern standards. The E28 was designed with safety advancements for its time, emphasizing structural integrity.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory premium sound systems available, often with cassette players. Aftermarket upgrades are common.

ABS:

Available as an option on later models, significantly improving braking control.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards. Features like power windows, central locking, and electric mirrors were common. Onboard computer available on some models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 1 year, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for exact recommendation.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km) for standard spark plugs. Platinum plugs can extend this interval.

Timing Belt Replacement:

The M30 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, which is designed to last the life of the engine, though tensioners may require occasional inspection/replacement.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 recommended for most conditions. Synthetic oils can offer improved protection. Consult manual for precise viscosity based on temperature.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). BMW blue coolant or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Flush and replace every 2 years.

Common Faults:

Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel injector issues, idle control valve problems, fuel pump failure, wiring harness degradation (especially insulation), rear subframe mounting points fatigue, window regulator failure, climate control flap actuators.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm

Wheel Offset:

ET 20 to ET 30 (depending on wheel size and model)

Tire Sizes:

Common sizes include 195/70VR14, 205/55VR16, 225/50VR16. Consult manual for exact fitment.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' was firmly established with models like the E28, blending performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.

E28 Introduction:

The E28 succeeded the E12 5 Series and was produced from 1981 to 1988. It represented a significant step forward in technology and refinement.

Key E28 Variants:

528e (eta engine, focus on fuel efficiency), 528i, 533i, 535i, and the high-performance M535i (Europe) and M5 (US/Europe - S38 engine).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Acclaim:

Consistently praised by automotive publications for its driving dynamics, build quality, and refinement, solidifying BMW's position in the executive sedan market.

Industry Standards:

Meets or exceeds industry safety and emissions standards for its respective production years and markets.