Model Code:
E30 Convertible
Production Years Covered:
1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990
Positioning:
Entry-level luxury sport convertible, offering a balance of performance, handling, and open-air motoring
Key Competitors:
Audi 80/90 Cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz 190SL (earlier), Porsche 944 Cabriolet (higher end)
Vehicle Appeal:
Iconic E30 chassis, renowned BMW handling characteristics, direct steering feel, robust inline-six engine
Convertible Top:
Fully automatic hydraulic convertible top system with manual override and heated rear glass
Target Audience:
BMW enthusiasts, owners undertaking maintenance and restoration, independent repair shops
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, timing, cooling, lubrication
Engine Management:
Fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, sensor diagnostics, ECU functions
Transmission:
Manual (Getrag 260), Automatic (ZF 4HP22), clutch, driveshaft, differential
Suspension And Steering:
Front struts, rear semi-trailing arms, bushings, power steering system, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, rear discs, ABS (if equipped), hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting, gauges, power windows, convertible top motor and hydraulics
Climate Control:
HVAC system, blower motor, refrigerant system, heater core
Bodywork And Trim:
Body panels, bumpers, convertible top mechanism, interior trim, glass replacement
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, brake fluid flush
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, DTC reading (where applicable), component testing
Repair:
Component removal and installation, major overhauls, sub-assembly repairs
Adjustments:
Valve lash, throttle linkage, ignition timing (early models), parking brake adjustment
Torque Specifications:
Engine, chassis, and suspension component torque values
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Diagnostic Tools Required:
Mention of specific tools and equipment, including early diagnostic aids
Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Horsepower:
171 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
167 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (approx.)
Injection System:
Bosch Motronic ML-Jetronic
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)
Coolant Type:
BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue or Green, ethylene glycol based)
Oil Capacity:
5.5 Liters (5.8 US Quarts) with filter
Oil Specification:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 recommended (refer to manual for specific climate grades)
Type:
Getrag 260 5-speed Manual
Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic
Manual Fluid Type:
BMW Synchromesh Fluid (or equivalent API GL-4 75W-90)
Automatic Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent ATF)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate
NHTSA Rating:
Not directly rated by NHTSA for this period, but known for robust chassis construction.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver airbag became standard in later E30 models; early models may not have them.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and windshield frame for improved structural integrity in rollovers.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 12 months (synthetic oil)
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 miles (NGK BPR6ES or equivalent)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW ATF Dexron II
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 80W-90
Engine Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, rear main seal
Cooling System:
Cracked plastic coolant expansion tank, failing water pump, thermostat housing leaks
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings (bushings integral to the arm), rear shock mounts, subframe bushings
Convertible Top Hydraulics:
Leaks in hoses or cylinders, pump failure, worn seals
Electrical:
Corroded ground points, failing alternator voltage regulator, window regulator issues
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, focus on driver engagement and performance engineering.
E30 Platform:
Third generation 3 Series, introduced in 1982. The convertible variant was a significant addition, known for its sporty driving dynamics.
Convertible Launch:
Introduced in 1985 for the 1986 model year.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
