🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Chassis Code:

E28

Specific Model Variant:

518 / 518i

Engine Code Primary:

M10B18 (carbureted and injected variants)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Executive Sedan

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W124, Audi 100, Jaguar XJ, Volvo 240/740, Cadillac Sedan de Ville.

Design Philosophy:

German engineering, focus on driver engagement, build quality, and sophisticated (for its era) technology.

Target Audience:

Mechanical technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts tasked with maintaining and repairing the BMW E28 518/518i.

📋 Manual Details

Model Years Covered:

1985, 1986, 1987, 1988

Page Count:

227

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full overhaul, diagnosis, timing, valve train, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (carburetor and Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic for 'i' models).

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting and charging system, fuel injection control (ECU diagnostics), emission control systems.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox overhaul, shifting mechanisms, driveshafts, differential maintenance.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission servicing (ZF 4HP22 for some variants), hydraulic control, cooler system.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension geometry, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, sway bars, alignment procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack, tie rods, steering column.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brake systems (vented front), hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair for equipped models, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Complete wiring diagrams, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), instrumentation, central locking, power windows, mirrors, fuse box layout, relay functions.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter replacement, carburetor adjustment (518), fuel injection components (518i).

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable), muffler, exhaust hangers, lambda sensor (518i).

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood, trunk, interior trim, rust prevention and repair, chassis lubrication.

Heating And Air Conditioning:

HVAC system operation, component testing, refrigerant handling, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter change, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid replacement, drive belt inspection and replacement.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common starting, running, electrical, and braking issues.

Major Repair Procedures:

Engine rebuild, head gasket replacement, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Component testing using multimeters, voltage drop testing, wiring harness repair, fuse and relay testing.

Specification Tables:

Torque specifications for critical fasteners, engine data, fluid capacities, valve clearances, ignition timing settings.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive from basic owner maintenance to advanced mechanical and electrical system repairs, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High resolution, suitable for printing all pages.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable if OCR'd, allowing quick access to specific topics.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M10B18

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder, SOHC

Displacement Cc:

1766

Bore Mm:

89.0

Stroke Mm:

71.0

Horsepower Ps 518:

90

Torque Nm 518:

140

Horsepower Ps 518I:

105

Torque Nm 518I:

150

Fuel System 518:

Solex or Pierburg Carburetor

Fuel System 518I:

Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91 or higher)

Engine Management 518I:

ECU controlled ignition and fuel injection

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed Manual

Optional Transmission:

3-speed or 4-speed Automatic (ZF)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

Final Drive:

BMW 'Large' Differential, various ratios available.

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm:

4620

Width Mm:

1700

Height Mm:

1410

Wheelbase Mm:

2795

Curb Weight Kg Approx:

1290

Gross Vehicle Weight Kg Approx:

1800

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Era:

Standard safety features for the mid-1980s; not subject to modern rigorous testing protocols.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes, optional ABS on later models.

Passive Safety Features:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones, padded interior, seat belts (likely 3-point front, 2-point rear).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio and cassette player, often with optional premium sound system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on later models.

Connectivity Features:

Not applicable by modern standards. Primarily focused on mechanical and electrical systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Km:

Typically 7,500 - 10,000 km or annually, whichever comes first (refer to specific manual recommendations).

Spark Plug Replacement Km:

Approx. 20,000 - 30,000 km (depending on plug type).

Coolant Flush Interval Km:

Every 2-3 years or approx. 40,000 km.

Transmission Fluid Change Auto Km:

Recommended every 50,000 - 80,000 km, though some sources suggest sealed for life; manual check is key.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

10W-40 or 15W-40 API SG or higher (check manual for specific climate recommendations).

Engine Oil Capacity Liters:

Approx. 4.25 liters (with filter change).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, BMW approved type (e.g., G48/G11 equivalent).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or III equivalent.

Common Issues:

Rusting (wheel arches, sills, battery tray), cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel distributor/injector issues (518i), worn suspension bushings, aging electrical connectors, starter motor solenoid failure, differential mount wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, established in 1916, renowned for performance, luxury, and sporting sedans and coupes.

Model Lineage:

The E28 is the second generation of the BMW 5 Series, succeeding the E12 and preceding the E34. It marked a significant evolution in chassis design and technology.

Production Period E28:

1981-1988

Production Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing), South Africa, Egypt, Thailand, Venezuela, Mexico.

518 518I Market Position:

The 518 and 518i variants represented the entry-level models in the E28 range, offering BMW's hallmark driving dynamics and build quality at a more accessible price point, particularly in markets with higher taxation on larger displacement engines.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Brand Recognition:

BMW has consistently been recognized for its engineering excellence and driving dynamics across its model range.

Industry Perception:

The E28 generation is highly regarded for its robust build quality, engaging driving experience, and relative simplicity compared to later generations, making it a classic appreciating in value.