Positioning:
The E30 3 Series cemented BMW's reputation for sporty, driver-focused sedans and coupes in the premium compact segment, offering a compelling blend of performance, handling, and build quality.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra, Opel Vectra
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and engaging driving experience, characteristic of BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy.
Engine Options:
Offered a range of efficient 4-cylinder (318i) and potent inline-6 engines (325 models), providing a spectrum of performance.
Body Styles:
Available as a 2-door sedan, 4-door sedan, convertible, and a rare M3 variant (not covered in this specific manual).
Vehicle Years Covered:
1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990
Models Covered:
318i, 325, 325e, 325es, 325i, 325is
Estimated Page Count:
Thousands (comprehensive service manual)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (Immediate Availability)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection (K-Jetronic, L-Jetronic), ignition, exhaust, cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Clutch, manual transmission (Getrag 260), automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22), driveshaft, differential, axles
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (semi-trailing arm), power steering system, steering components
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes (model dependent), ABS (optional), brake system hydraulics, parking brake
Electrical Electronics:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, instrument cluster, diagnostic connectors, engine control unit (ECU), body control modules
Body Chassis:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, chassis components, corrosion protection
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for engine, transmission, electrical, and other systems; common fault diagnosis
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair
Installation:
Instructions for installation of specific parts and accessories
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, component testing procedures, electrical circuit diagrams
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic preventative maintenance to complex system overhauls and diagnostics, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
318I Engine:
M10B18, 1.8-liter inline-4 cylinder, SOHC, 8 valves
318I Power:
Approx. 101-105 hp @ 5800 rpm
318I Torque:
Approx. 101-103 lb-ft @ 3250-3500 rpm
325E Engine:
M20B27, 2.7-liter inline-6 cylinder, SOHC, 12 valves (designed for torque and efficiency, 'eta' engine)
325E Power:
Approx. 121-127 hp @ 4800-5000 rpm
325E Torque:
Approx. 170-174 lb-ft @ 3250-3500 rpm
325I Engine:
M20B25, 2.5-liter inline-6 cylinder, SOHC, 12 valves
325I Power:
Approx. 168-171 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm
325I Torque:
Approx. 164-167 lb-ft @ 4300-4750 rpm
Acceleration 0 60 325I:
Approx. 7.5-8.0 seconds
Top Speed 325I:
Approx. 135-140 mph
Fuel Injection 318I:
Bosch L-Jetronic (later models may have Motronic)
Fuel Injection 325E Es:
Bosch Motronic
Fuel Injection 325I Is:
Bosch Motronic
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 101.2 inches (2570 mm)
Length Sedan:
Approx. 170.5 inches (4330 mm)
Width:
Approx. 65.4 inches (1660 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.7 inches (1390 mm)
Curb Weight 318I:
Approx. 2700-2850 lbs (1225-1293 kg)
Curb Weight 325I:
Approx. 2900-3100 lbs (1315-1406 kg)
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 14.3 cubic feet (405 liters)
NHTSA Ratings:
Likely 4-star frontal impact rating from NHTSA (contemporary testing standards)
Anti Lock Brakes:
Optional ABS system available on most models
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag became standard in later model years (late 80s/early 90s)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts
Crumple Zones:
Engineered with front and rear crumple zones for impact absorption
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional premium sound systems (e.g., Blaupunkt, Nakamichi).
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on many models.
OBD Port:
Early OBD-I diagnostic port, requiring specific BMW connectors and scanners for advanced diagnostics.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil used).
Filter Replacement Interval:
Oil filter with every oil change; air filter and fuel filter every 15,000-30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000 miles for standard spark plugs, longer for platinum/iridium plugs if applicable to later models.
Timing Belt Chain:
M20 engines use a timing belt, typically requiring replacement every 60,000 miles or 5 years. M10 engines also use a timing belt.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 (check manual for specific temperature range recommendations).
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol-based, 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil (e.g., Castrol SYNTRANS 75W-90)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III ATF or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF1)
Differential Fluid:
SAE 80W-90 GL-5 gear oil (non-LS or LS depending on differential type)
Common Engine Issues:
Head gasket failures (especially on early M20s), valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, fuel distributor problems (K-Jetronic), idle control valve issues.
Common Cooling System Issues:
Cracked plastic expansion tanks, leaking hoses, failing water pumps, clogged radiators.
Common Suspension Issues:
Worn control arm bushings, worn ball joints, rear trailing arm bushings (RTABs), worn shock absorbers.
Common Electrical Issues:
Corroded grounds, failing fuel pump relays, instrument cluster pixelation, door panel wiring issues, door lock actuator failures.
Common Body Issues:
Rust, particularly in wheel wells, rocker panels, battery tray area, and around windows.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW, a German manufacturer with a long history of producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles, established its reputation with models like the Neue Klasse and subsequent 3 Series generations.
E30 Introduction:
Introduced in 1982 in Europe and 1984 in North America, the E30 replaced the E21 and was a significant success, defining the compact executive segment.
E30 Facelifts:
The E30 underwent significant facelifts during its production run, including revised bumpers (shock-absorbing), updated interior trim, and updated engines and electrical systems.
Production Years:
1982-1994 (globally)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany, with some assembly in other international locations.
