🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

528i

Chassis Code:

E28

Model Years:

1981-1988

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

BMW E28 owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops.

Value Proposition:

Empowers owners to perform repairs themselves, saving on labor costs and ensuring proper maintenance of a classic BMW.

Competitors:

Haynes, Chilton (though typically less comprehensive for European makes), official BMW service bulletins (often less accessible to public).

Key Selling Point:

Factory-level detail, comprehensive coverage of all service and repair jobs.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Downloadable)

Page Count:

Extensive (Specific count not provided, but described as 'highly detailed' and covering 'every service and repair job')

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head, block assembly, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic depending on year/market), fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel pressure regulation.

Ignition System:

Distributor, ignition coils, spark plugs, electronic ignition control.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch operation, gearshift mechanism, gearbox internal components, torque specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Hydraulic control, torque converter, planetary gearsets, shift solenoids, valve body, fluid specifications, adjustments.

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, universal joints, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings.

Suspension Front:

MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, springs, shock absorbers, steering knuckle.

Suspension Rear:

Semi-trailing arms, independent suspension, bushings, shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bars.

Steering System:

Power steering pump, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, steering wheel.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes (all models), brake calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, dashboard instruments, sensors.

Climate Control:

HVAC system, heater core, blower motor, air conditioning compressor, refrigerant, controls, ductwork.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, interior trim, structural components.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks, tune-ups, belt replacement.

Repair:

Component-level repair and replacement for all covered systems.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, fault finding, common problem identification and solutions.

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD) interpretation (early forms), test procedures for various sensors and actuators.

Specifications:

Detailed torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, and fluid capacities.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Likely searchable if a high-quality scan or native PDF.

Printable:

Yes

Quality:

Professional quality, highly detailed.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Typical:

M30 (e.g., M30B34 for 535i, but 528i typically used M30B28/M30B28LE)

Engine Type:

Inline-6, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Displacement Liters:

2.8 liters (approx. 2788 cc)

Bore X Stroke Mm:

84.0 mm x 81.0 mm (typical for M30B28)

Horsepower Ps Approx:

184 PS @ 5800 rpm (for M30B28LE - European Spec, US Spec may vary slightly)

Torque Nm Approx:

240 Nm @ 3500 rpm (for M30B28LE - European Spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic electronic fuel injection

Recommended Fuel Octane:

Premium Unleaded (91 RON or higher)

Ignition Type:

Electronic ignition with distributor

Oil Capacity Liters:

6.5 liters (with filter change)

Coolant Capacity Liters:

9.5 liters

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed manual (Getrag 260/5 or similar) - often standard on 528e (eta engine), 528i likely had 5-speed as standard in many markets.

Transmission Type Optional:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-III (or equivalent specifications for ZF transmissions of this era, consult manual for exact BMW spec)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 8-10 liters (depending on torque converter fill)

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm:

4620 mm

Width Mm:

1700 mm

Height Mm:

1415 mm

Wheelbase Mm:

2770 mm

Curb Weight Kg:

1350 - 1450 kg (approx. depending on equipment)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:

1850 kg (approx.)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

No official crash test ratings from modern agencies (e.g., NHTSA, IIHS) for this era of vehicle. Safety was primarily addressed through passive restraints and structural integrity of the time.

ABS:

Optional on most models, standard on some later E28 variants/markets.

Airbags:

Not available during the E28 production run. Driver airbag became standard on the E34 generation.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia reel seatbelts front and rear.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A and B pillars, integrated roll bar in the roof structure.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic analog radio (often Blaupunkt or Becker), optional cassette player, analog gauges for speed, RPM, fuel, temperature, and oil pressure.

Cruise Control:

Optional, vacuum-operated or electronic depending on year and market.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for specific conditions).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (recommendation for standard plugs, platinum/iridium may differ).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Inspect as needed. Automatic: Typically 40,000-60,000 miles or as per manual.

Engine Oil Grade:

10W-40 or 15W-40 API SG/SF (Consult manual for specific BMW approval and viscosity for climate)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors (BMW approved, typically blue or green in color)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW approved hydraulic fluid (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or similar for specific systems, consult manual)

Engine M30 Common Issues:

Head gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, timing chain guides, fuel injector seal leaks, distributor O-ring leaks.

Suspension Common Issues:

Worn bushings (control arm, trailing arm), ball joint wear, shock absorber fatigue, sway bar link end wear.

Electrical Common Issues:

Corroded grounds, failing alternator, starter motor wear, aging wiring harnesses, dashboard warning light malfunctions.

Cooling System Common Issues:

Leaking radiator hoses, failing water pump, clogged heater core, expansion tank leaks.

Rust Prone Areas:

Wheel arches, rocker panels, battery tray area, jacking points, rear valence.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Philosophy:

BMW's commitment to 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' blending performance, luxury, and engineering.

Predecessor:

BMW E12 (5 Series)

Successor:

BMW E34 (5 Series)

Key Design Language:

Designed by Claus Luthe, known for its clean lines, Hofmeister kink, and driver-focused interior.

Production Years:

1981-1988

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing Plant), South Africa, Thailand, India, and other CKD assembly plants.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Reviews:

Consistently praised by automotive press for its excellent handling, build quality, and refined powertrains, establishing BMW's reputation in the executive sedan market.

Collector Status:

Highly regarded as a modern classic and a benchmark for driver-focused sedans of its era, appreciating in value with well-maintained examples.