Segment:
Luxury Sport Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional technicians working on E28 5-series
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ-S
Distinctive Traits:
Renowned for handling, build quality, powerful inline-six engines, M-Technic enhancements on M535i
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the iconic E28 chassis and its potent M30 engine.
Engine Coverage:
3.5L M30B34 inline-six
Transmission Coverage:
4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual
Electrical System Coverage:
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing
Chassis Coverage:
Suspension, steering, brakes, chassis components
Body Coverage:
Bodywork, interior, trim, seals
Type:
Workshop Service Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission overhaul, automatic transmission operation and repair, clutch system
Drivetrain Systems:
Driveshafts, differentials, axles
Suspension Systems:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings
Steering Systems:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods
Brake Systems:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation and troubleshooting, brake fluid
Electrical Systems:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting, wipers, horn, dashboard instruments, power windows, central locking
Climate Control Systems:
HVAC system, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant service
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments
Troubleshooting Procedures:
Diagnostic procedures for engine, transmission, electrical faults, starting issues
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, major assembly overhauls, body panel repair
Diagnostic Charts:
Fault finding charts and symptom-based troubleshooting
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive repair and diagnostic procedures, detailed component specifications, torque values, timing procedures
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic techniques including electronic system checks
Rebuild Information:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-Six
Displacement:
3.430 cc (3.4 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 or 8.1:1 (depending on market/model)
Horsepower:
182 hp @ 5,400 rpm (535i), 218 hp @ 5,400 rpm (M535i Euro spec)
Torque:
290 Nm @ 3,000 rpm (535i), 330 Nm @ 4,000 rpm (M535i Euro spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Timing Drive:
Timing Chain
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22) or 5-speed Manual (Getrag 265)
Transmission Options:
5-speed manual was standard on M535i, automatic optional. 535i often came with automatic, manual available.
Manual Gearbox Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., close-ratio 'dogleg' 5-speed on some M535i)
Automatic Features:
Torque converter lock-up
Length:
Approx. 4,720 mm (185.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,415 mm (55.7 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,550 - 1,650 kg (3,417 - 3,638 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Refer to vehicle placard
Crash Test Data:
Limited formal crash test data from modern standards for this era; known for robust E-body construction.
Active Safety:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), advanced chassis dynamics
Passive Safety:
Reinforced safety cage, energy-absorbing steering column, front and rear crumple zones
Seat Belts:
3-point front seat belts, rear lap belts
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional amplifiers and equalizers.
Climate Control Tech:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (ACC) with integrated diagnostics.
Driver Assistance Systems:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, consult manual for specific conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Refer to manual; often around 30,000 miles depending on plug type.
Timing Belt Chain Service:
Timing chain is designed for the life of the engine; inspect tensioners and guides as per manual.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual; typically SAE 15W-40, 15W-50, or 20W-50 depending on climate (e.g., BMW High Performance Synthetic 20W/50)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent.
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Engine Common Issues:
Head gasket leaks (less common on M30 but possible), oil leaks from front/rear main seals, valve stem seals causing blue smoke, starter solenoid issues.
Cooling System Issues:
Cracked radiator end tanks, failing water pump, thermostat housing leaks, deterioration of hoses.
Electrical Issues:
Corrosion on battery terminals and grounds, brittle wiring insulation, malfunctioning door lock actuators, intermittent dashboard lights.
Suspension Issues:
Worn control arm bushings, worn ball joints, sagging springs, leaking shock absorbers.
Fuel System Issues:
Clogged fuel injectors, failing fuel pump, deteriorating fuel lines.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for building driver-focused, performance-oriented luxury sedans.
E28 Generation:
Second generation of the BMW 5 Series, evolving from the E12. Known for its sharper styling and improved dynamics.
M535I Significance:
Precursor to the legendary E28 M5. Offered enhanced performance and sportier aesthetics via the M division's tuning.
Production Years:
E28 production: 1981-1988. 535i/M535i models within this range.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (primarily Dingolfing)
Historical Recognition:
The E28 generation was widely praised for its balance of luxury, performance, and engineering. Models like the M535i were considered benchmarks in their class.
Performance Ratings:
Consistently rated highly by automotive journalists of the era for handling, braking, and engine performance.
Manual Certification:
N/A (This is a third-party service manual publication, not a manufacturer certification)
