Target Audience:
BMW E30 owners, independent mechanics, automotive technicians, restoration specialists.
Value Proposition:
Provides extensive factory-level repair information at a fraction of the cost of proprietary diagnostic software or multiple physical manuals. Instant access is a key differentiator.
Completeness:
Promises complete information, including technical data, circuits, and diagrams, mirroring original manufacturer books.
Accessibility:
Instant download and immediate access to repair information.
Covered Models:
318i, 325, 325e, 325es, 325i, 325is, 325i Convertible
Covered Years:
1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds to thousands of pages (printable)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Language:
English (assumed from context)
File Format:
PDF (primarily), potentially ZIP for larger files
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, diagnosis, cooling system, fuel system, lubrication system, ignition system, emissions control, engine management (DME), timing belt/chain.
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission service, automatic transmission service, clutch service, drive shafts, differential.
Braking Systems:
Brake system diagnosis, repair, hydraulic components, brake calipers, master cylinder, ABS system (if equipped).
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, electrical troubleshooting, charging system, starting system, lighting systems, gauges, instrument cluster, ECUs.
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, power steering, wheel alignment, shock absorbers, bushings.
Body Chassis:
Body repair, panel replacement, doors, windows, convertible top mechanism, interior trim, chassis components.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tire rotation.
Exhaust Systems:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, piping, hangers, and troubleshooting.
Wheel Tire:
Wheel specifications, tire rotation, balance, alignment procedures, wheel bearing replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, component testing, diagnostic flowcharts.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical systems.
Rebuild Procedures:
Engine, transmission, differential, and component rebuild procedures.
Adjustment Procedures:
Valve adjustments, idle speed adjustments, parking brake adjustments.
Installation Procedures:
Component replacement and installation procedures.
Engine Tuning:
Information on fuel mixture adjustment, ignition timing (where applicable).
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive factory-level technical details, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Schematics Diagrams:
Detailed electrical circuit diagrams, vacuum diagrams, and exploded views.
Engine Codes:
M10 (318i), M20B27 (325e/es), M20B25 (325i/is)
Engine Type 318I:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement 318I:
1.8 Liters (1795 cc)
Horsepower 318I:
Approx. 101-105 hp (depending on market and year)
Torque 318I:
Approx. 103-107 lb-ft
Engine Type 325:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC (M20)
Displacement 325E Es:
2.7 Liters (2693 cc)
Horsepower 325E Es:
Approx. 121-124 hp (low rev focus)
Torque 325E Es:
Approx. 170 lb-ft
Displacement 325I Is:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Horsepower 325I Is:
Approx. 168-171 hp
Torque 325I Is:
Approx. 164-167 lb-ft
Fuel Injection:
Bosch L-Jetronic (early 318i), Bosch Motronic (325e/es, 325i/is)
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Manual (318i), 5-speed Getrag Manual (325 models)
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed Automatic (318i), 4-speed Automatic (325 models)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate clutch
Differential:
Limited Slip Differential (LSD) often optional or standard on 'is' models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months (refer to specific year/model recommendations in manual).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Intervals vary by plug type, generally 30,000 - 60,000 miles.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for M20 engines: typically 40,000 - 60,000 miles or 4-5 years. M10 uses a timing chain.
Engine Oil Spec:
Castrol GTX 20W-50 API SG or better recommended, consult manual for specific grades.
Coolant Spec:
BMW Antifreeze/Coolant, or a quality ethylene glycol-based coolant with rust inhibitors (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90, specific viscosity may vary).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-II or equivalent ATF.
Common E30 Issues:
Cooling system leaks (hoses, water pump, expansion tank), fuel distributor issues (M20), rear subframe mounting cracks, seized brake calipers, door handle failures, sunroof drains clogging, old rubber bushings.
Bmw Philosophy:
Continued BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' with agile handling and driver-focused design.
E30 Introduction:
Introduced in 1982 in Europe, North America in 1984. Marked a significant shift towards a more modern design and improved refinement over the E21.
E30 Facelifts:
Received a significant facelift in 1987 (late model) with revised front and rear styling, interior updates, and improved aerodynamics.
Production Years:
1982-1994 (global, North American market covered 1984-1991)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany, South Africa, Spartanburg, USA (for some early convertible assembly/completion)
