Vehicle Class:
Executive/Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional technicians working on BMW E28 535i models
Competitors Era:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ6
Bmw Philosophy:
Sporty driving dynamics, build quality, refined engineering, driver-centric interior
Engine:
3.4L Inline-6 (M30B34), including fuel injection (L-Jetronic), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication, exhaust system
Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (optional) and 5-speed Manual (standard), clutch, driveshaft, differentials
Suspension:
Front McPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, springs, dampers, sway bars, steering linkage
Brakes:
Front vented discs, rear solid discs, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, dashboard instruments, power accessories, wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations
Body:
Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seat mechanisms
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system operation and service
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, injectors, fuel pressure regulator
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and changes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault codes (where applicable), symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul for all major systems
Diagnostics:
Engine timing adjustments, ignition timing checks, fuel system pressure testing, electrical system testing
Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications and clearances
Diagnostics Level:
Advanced diagnostics and troubleshooting beyond basic maintenance
Repair Detail:
Comprehensive, from simple adjustments to complete component overhauls and replacements
Specifications:
Detailed technical specifications, torque values, clearances, and tolerances for all components
Digital File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Printability:
High-resolution, optimized for clear printing of individual pages or the entire manual
Binding Method Recommendation:
Binder or spiral binding for ease of use while working in the garage
Recommended Paper Type:
Durable, matte finish paper to minimize glare and withstand shop conditions
Text Searchability:
Likely contains searchable text for quick information retrieval
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder
Displacement:
3.4 Liters (3430 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Horsepower Est:
182-189 hp @ 5400 rpm (depending on specific market and tuning)
Torque Est:
220-230 lb-ft @ 3000-3600 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Ignition System:
Distributor-based electronic ignition
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 or 8.8:1 (depending on specific engine variant)
Transmission Type Standard:
Getrag 265 5-speed Manual
Transmission Type Optional:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios for 1st-5th gears and reverse provided in manual
Automatic Features:
Lock-up torque converter, sport/economy modes (on some models)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., Castrol EPX 80W/90 or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II (or equivalent ATF)
Length:
Approx. 4,730 mm (186.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,410 mm (55.5 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,795 mm (110.0 in)
Curb Weight Est:
Approx. 1,500 - 1,600 kg (3,300 - 3,500 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Specific GVWR found within manual
Trunk Capacity Est:
Approx. 0.45 m³ (16 cu ft)
Crash Safety:
No formal NHTSA/IIHS ratings from this era, but BMW was known for robust chassis construction and safety features for its time.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on 4-wheel discs
Traction Control:
Optional ASC (Automatic Stability Control) on some later models, but not standard on most 1985-1988 535i.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts (front and rear)
Airbags:
No airbags were standard or optional on this model generation.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and roof structure
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional premium sound systems (e.g., Bavaria C Electronic)
Navigation:
No factory navigation system available on this model.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Assistance:
No factory parking sensors or cameras.
Bluetooth:
No factory Bluetooth connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact spec).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on plug type (refer to manual).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check manual for exact seasonal recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (hoses, radiator, water pump), fuel distributor issues, idle control valve problems, headliner sagging, door seal degradation, rear subframe mounts (bushings), front suspension bushings
Maintenance Focus:
Regular inspection of rubber components (hoses, seals, bushings) is critical due to age.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for performance, luxury, and engineering excellence dating back to the early 20th century.
E28 Introduction:
The E28 generation succeeded the E12 and was produced from 1981 to 1988. The 535i was a top-tier model, replacing the 528e and 533i.
E28 Distinction:
The E28 was the first 5 Series to offer a diesel engine and was also the platform for the legendary M535i and E28 M5.
Production Years E28:
1981-1988
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany
Automotive Press Reviews:
Car and Driver's Ten Best list multiple times for the E28 chassis, praising its driving dynamics and build quality.
Performance Ratings:
Consistently lauded for its strong performance and handling characteristics compared to contemporaries.
Build Quality Assessment:
BMW's reputation for exceptional build quality and longevity is a key factor for enthusiasts.
