Positioning:
The BMW 318i (E30) represented BMW's entry-level luxury compact sedan and coupe, offering sporty handling and BMW's reputation for build quality and driving dynamics at a more accessible price point.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, and Cadillac Cimarron during its production run.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, and responsive steering, contributing to its 'ultimate driving machine' reputation.
Design:
Iconic E30 design, characterized by clean lines and a driver-focused interior, penned by Claus Luthe.
Value Proposition:
Essential for owners and mechanics needing to maintain, diagnose, and repair these classic BMWs, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive factory service and repair procedures for the BMW 318i (E30) models
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance schedules, troubleshooting guides, electrical schematics, specifications
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (specific number not provided in product info, but typical for factory manuals of this era)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, tune-up, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (injection), ignition system
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission removal, installation, repair, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, differential, axles, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, springs
Steering:
Steering rack, power steering system, components, diagnosis
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, central locking
Fuel System:
Bosch LE2-Jetronic fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass, doors, bumpers
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, timing belt inspection/replacement (if applicable for specific engines)
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all components and systems
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD) information (early systems), component testing procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of BMW-specific and general automotive tools required for repairs
Depth:
Factory-level technical information, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Accuracy:
Official factory data ensuring accuracy and completeness
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.0 mm x 71.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
Approx. 101-105 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm (varies by market and year)
Torque:
Approx. 100-103 lb-ft @ 3200-3500 rpm (varies by market and year)
Injection System:
Bosch LE2-Jetronic (Electronic Fuel Injection)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended)
Type:
Electronic Ignition
ECU:
Bosch Motronic (early variant)
Type:
4-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 3HP22)
Clutch:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated (Manual)
Final Drive:
Rear Wheel Drive
Manual Gearbox Oil:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (refer to manual for specific viscosity, e.g., 75W-80 GL-4)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (refer to manual for specific)
Wheelbase:
2565 mm (101.0 in)
Length:
4325 mm (170.3 in)
Height:
1380 mm (54.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1150-1250 kg (2535-2756 lbs), varies by body style and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle data plate
Wheel Size Standard:
14 x 5.5 inches (steel or alloy)
Tire Size Standard:
185/70 R14
NHTSA Rating:
Not readily available for this era; focus on passive safety features.
ABS:
Optional on later models, standard on some higher trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia reel seatbelts in front, two-point in rear (later models may have three-point rear)
Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones front and rear
Headlights:
Halogen headlights (Euro-spec may have larger units)
Radio:
Factory AM/FM cassette radio, often with premium sound system option.
Speakers:
Multiple speaker configurations depending on trim and options.
ABS:
As noted, optional but available.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily focused on vehicle mechanics and basic comfort features. No modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity from the factory.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for precise intervals).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on plug type (refer to manual for specific recommendations, e.g., Bosch W7DC or equivalent).
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace every 30,000 miles or as needed.
Fuel Filter:
Replace every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (refer to manual for specific interval and procedure).
Coolant Change:
Replace every 2-3 years or as recommended in manual, using BMW-approved coolant.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter change (refer to manual for exact capacity).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 recommended (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Common Problems:
Cooling system (radiator leaks, hose failures), fuel distributor issues, vacuum leaks, seized sway bar links, rust (especially wheel arches, rocker panels, battery tray), odometer gear failure.
Electrical Quirks:
Corrosion on fuse box terminals, faulty door lock actuators, aging wiring harnesses.
Brand:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW), a German company renowned for luxury vehicles and motorcycles since 1916.
E30 Generation:
The E30 generation (1982-1994) was the second generation of the BMW 3 Series, succeeding the E21 and preceding the E36. It was a highly influential model for BMW.
318I Positioning:
The 318i was positioned as the entry-level model, offering a more fuel-efficient and affordable option within the 3 Series lineup, often with the M10 engine.
Production Years:
E30 generation: 1982-1994 (with variations in market availability)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Munich), with production also occurring in South Africa and other locations.
