🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Model Variant:

518 / 518i

Year:

1981

Chassis Code:

E28

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Executive/Luxury Sedan

Key Competitors 1981:

Mercedes-Benz W123, Audi 100, Volvo 240, Jaguar XJ, Cadillac DeVille

Design Philosophy:

German engineering, driver-focused, robust build quality, understated luxury

Powertrain Focus:

Emphasis on smooth power delivery and fuel efficiency for the 518 variants

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Complete official factory service and repair procedures

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided in product info, but described as comprehensive)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service And Repair:

Comprehensive diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and tuning for the M10 engine variants

Fuel System Service:

Details on carburetor systems (Zenith Stromberg, Solex) and early Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection for the 'i' model

Ignition System Service:

Ignition timing, spark plugs, coil, distributor, and electronic ignition components

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and coolant specifications

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, and oil specifications

Transmission Manual:

Repair and overhaul of the Getrag 4-speed and optional 5-speed manual transmissions

Transmission Automatic:

Service and repair for the ZF 3HP22 3-speed automatic transmission (if applicable to 518/518i variant)

Clutch System:

Clutch assembly, hydraulic system, and adjustment procedures

Drivetrain And Axles:

Driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle differential, and half-shafts

Suspension Front:

MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, and alignment specifications

Suspension Rear:

Semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, and bushings

Steering System:

Steering rack, tie rods, steering column, and power steering system (if equipped)

Brake System Front:

Disc brake calipers, pads, rotors, and hydraulic lines

Brake System Rear:

Disc brake calipers, pads, rotors, and hydraulic lines

Parking Brake:

Mechanism, cables, and adjustment

Electrical System Chassis:

Wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, battery, and charging system

Lighting System:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, and bulb specifications

Instrument Panel:

Gauges, warning lights, and instrument cluster removal/installation

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, trim, and underbody components

HVAC System:

Heater core, blower motor, ventilation controls, and refrigerant (if equipped with A/C)

Body Electrical:

Wipers, washers, power windows (if equipped), central locking (if equipped)

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems

Engine Rebuild:

Complete step-by-step instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, and reassembly

Transmission Overhaul:

Detailed procedures for manual and automatic transmission repair

Brake System Repair:

Calipers, rotors, pads, lines, and bleeding procedures

Suspension Component Replacement:

Ball joints, bushings, struts, and shock absorbers

Electrical Component Testing:

Testing of sensors, actuators, alternators, starters, and ECUs

Wiring Diagram Interpretation:

Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems

Body Panel Replacement:

Procedures for replacing fenders, doors, hoods, and trunk lids

Interior Trim Removal:

Instructions for removing and refitting dashboard, door panels, and seats

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High resolution, suitable for clear printing of all pages

Binding Type:

Not applicable (downloadable PDF)

Paper Type:

Not applicable (downloadable PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type 518:

Inline 4-cylinder, M10 engine family

Engine Displacement 518:

1.8 Liters (1766 cc)

Engine Code 518:

M10B18

Engine Fueling 518:

Carburetor (e.g., Zenith Stromberg 175 CDSE)

Engine Power 518:

Approximately 90 PS (89 hp / 66 kW) at ~5500 RPM (varies slightly by market/tune)

Engine Torque 518:

Approximately 135 Nm (99 lb-ft) at ~3000 RPM (varies slightly by market/tune)

Engine Type 518I:

Inline 4-cylinder, M10 engine family

Engine Displacement 518I:

1.8 Liters (1766 cc)

Engine Code 518I:

M10B18

Engine Fueling 518I:

Bosch L-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection

Engine Power 518I:

Approximately 99 PS (98 hp / 73 kW) at ~5500 RPM (varies slightly by market/tune)

Engine Torque 518I:

Approximately 140 Nm (103 lb-ft) at ~3000 RPM (varies slightly by market/tune)

Top Speed Estimated:

Approx. 170-175 km/h (106-109 mph)

Acceleration 0 100Kph Estimated:

Approx. 12-14 seconds

Fuel Type Required:

Unleaded gasoline (RON 91 or higher recommended)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

70 Liters (18.5 US Gallons)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed manual (Getrag 245/10)

Transmission Type Optional:

3-speed ZF 3HP22 automatic transmission

Manual Gear Ratios:

Refer to manual for specific ratios (typical sporty setup for the era)

Automatic Features:

Lock-up torque converter for improved highway efficiency

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil (check manual for specific BMW PN)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III (or equivalent ATF)

Manual Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 1.3 Liters (1.4 US Quarts)

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 1.2 Liters (1.3 US Quarts) for initial fill, higher with torque converter

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,750 mm (187.0 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,795 mm (110.0 in)

Curb Weight Approx:

Approx. 1,300 - 1,350 kg (2,866 - 2,976 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle data plate

Standard Wheel Size:

14 inch (e.g., 14x5.5J)

Standard Tire Size:

185 HR 14 (e.g., Pirelli P3, Michelin XDX)

Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Center Bore:

72.5 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Era Standards:

Developed prior to standardized crash testing (NHTSA/Euro NCAP); compliance with 1980s safety regulations

Brakes Type:

Front ventilated discs, rear discs

Parking Brake Actuation:

Mechanical, rear wheels

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia reel seatbelts (front), 2-point lap belts (rear) standard

Body Structure:

Integrated safety cage, crumple zones

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Aftermarket or original AM/FM radio, often with cassette player (optional).

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional on some E28 models, check specific vehicle.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system available.

Original Connectivity:

None (pre-digital era)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (typical for the era; consult manual for exact OEM recommendation)

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 20,000 km (12,400 miles) or 24 months

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000-30,000 km (12,400-18,600 miles) depending on plug type

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 2 years (regardless of mileage)

Engine Oil Type:

API SF or SG, SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 recommended (check manual for specific BMW PN and viscosity)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). BMW coolant type (e.g., BMW blue or green coolant).

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts)

Common E28 Wear Items:

Coolant hoses, fuel lines, suspension bushings (e.g., control arm bushings, trailing arm bushings), exhaust system, rear subframe mounts, O-rings in the fuel system, ignition components (points, condenser, rotor, cap for non-i models).

Common E28 Electrical:

Aging wiring harness insulation, fuse box corrosion, intermittent electrical faults due to age.

Body Rust:

Prone to rust in wheel wells, rocker panels, door bottoms, and battery tray area.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, known for sporting sedans and efficient engineering

E28 Introduction:

The E28 generation succeeded the E12 5 Series, launched in 1981. It represented a significant modernization with improved aerodynamics, safety, and technology.

518 518I Positioning:

The 518 and 518i were positioned as the entry-level models in the E28 range, offering BMW's renowned handling and build quality at a more accessible price point. The 'i' denoted fuel injection.

Production Period:

1981-1988 (E28 generation)

Manufacturing Plants:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also contract manufacturing in other locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E28 Generation Reputation:

Praised for driving dynamics, build quality, and comfort, establishing the benchmark for executive sedans of its era.

Bmw 5 Series Legacy:

The 5 Series has consistently been a leader in its segment, known for blending performance, luxury, and technology across generations.