🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

535i / M535i

Model Codes:

E28 Chassis

Production Years Covered:

1985, 1986, 1987, 1988

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Luxury Sedan / Performance Sedan

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, owners requiring in-depth maintenance and repair knowledge, professional mechanics

Key Competitors Era:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8 Quattro, Jaguar XJ

Vehicle Attributes:

Balanced chassis, powerful inline-six engines, refined ride, luxury appointments, driver-focused interior

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential data for maintaining and repairing a classic BMW, enabling enthusiasts to preserve and enjoy these vehicles.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Types Covered:

M30B34 (3.4L inline-6)

Transmission Types Covered:

4-speed Automatic, 5-speed Manual

Estimated Page Count:

800+

Manual Format:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF) / Printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, assembly, disassembly, timing, lubrication, cooling

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), starting system, charging system, sensor diagnostics

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emissions control

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shift mechanism, driveshafts

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, hydraulic system, valve body, control unit, overhaul procedures

Drivetrain:

Differential, rear axle, wheel bearings, CV joints

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (semi-trailing arms), shock absorbers, springs, bushings

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, tie rods

Brakes:

Front/rear discs, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components, hydraulic lines, brake calipers, master cylinder, parking brake

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box, relays, lighting, accessories, battery, starter, alternator

Climate Control:

HVAC system, blower motor, refrigerant system, heater core, A/C compressor

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, glass

Chassis And Frame:

Frame inspection, subframe mounts, body structure

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault codes (if applicable)

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair

Overhauls:

Complete engine and transmission rebuilds

Diagnostics:

Electrical system diagnostics, fuel system testing, ABS fault finding

Specifications:

Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical testing parameters

Depth Level:

Comprehensive: From basic adjustments to complete engine rebuilds and advanced diagnostics

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval

Print Readability:

High-resolution scans/digital creation for clear diagrams and text

Binding For Physical:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Quality For Physical:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M30B34

Engine Type:

SOHC Inline-6 Cylinder

Displacement:

3.4 Liters (3430 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 86.0 mm

Horsepower 535I:

182 hp @ 5500 rpm (U.S. spec)

Torque 535I:

214 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (U.S. spec)

Horsepower M535I:

211 hp @ 5500 rpm (Euro spec, 218 hp for some variants)

Torque M535I:

228 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (Euro spec)

Fuel Injection System:

Bosch Motronic ML-Jetronic (early models) / Motronic ML 4.1 (later models)

Fuel Type Required:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91+ Octane)

Cooling Type:

Water-Cooled, Thermostatically Controlled

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard 535I:

4-speed Automatic (Getrag/ZF)

Transmission Standard M535I:

5-speed Manual (Getrag 265 'Dogleg' for some markets)

Transmission Optional 535I:

5-speed Manual (Getrag 265)

Transmission Optional M535I:

4-speed Automatic

Manual Gearbox Ratios:

Provided in manual (specific ratios vary)

Automatic Modes:

Often featured Sport/Economy modes

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW LT-3 / Dexron III equivalent (Check specific year/manual)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90) (Check specific manual)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2700 mm (106.3 in)

Length 535I:

4710 mm (185.4 in)

Width:

1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

1415 mm (55.7 in)

Curb Weight Approx:

1550-1650 kg (3417-3638 lbs) (Varies by transmission/options)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approx:

2000-2100 kg (4409-4630 lbs)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120

Standard Tire Size Approx:

205/60VR14 or 225/55VR15 (Varies by model/trim)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Era:

As per 1980s standards; advanced for its time but not directly comparable to modern NCAP ratings.

ABS:

Optional or Standard depending on market and year (Bosch ABS II)

Traction Control:

Not typically available on these models.

Airbags:

Driver airbag became available later in the E28 production cycle, not standard on all.

Seatbelts:

3-point front seatbelts, typically 3-point rear seatbelts (check specific configuration)

Crumple Zones:

Designed with front and rear crumple zones for impact absorption.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM Cassette player, optional premium sound systems (e.g., HiFi). Often upgraded by owners.

Navigation:

Not available from the factory on these models.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional, electro-mechanical system.

Parking Assistance:

Not available from the factory.

Bluetooth:

Not available from the factory.

Climate Control Type:

Manual or optional Automatic Climate Control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on usage and oil type used). Manual will specify.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type specified, e.g., copper vs. platinum).

Timing Belt Chain:

M30 engine uses a timing chain, requiring no periodic replacement unless worn or noisy. Chain tensioner and guides should be checked.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or higher; SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended for most conditions. Check manual for precise recommendation. Synthetic oils are beneficial.

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue or equivalent Ethylene Glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) Brake Fluid. Must be changed every 2 years due to hygroscopic nature.

Engine Common Problems:

Head gasket leaks (especially on higher mileage engines), oil seal leaks (crankshaft, valve cover), fuel distributor leaks (M-Jetronic), idle control valve issues.

Suspension Common Problems:

Worn control arm bushings, worn sway bar links, leaking front struts, rear trailing arm bushings.

Electrical Common Problems:

Corroded battery terminals/cables, faulty ignition coil, malfunctioning fuel pump relay, degraded wiring insulation, check control module issues.

Rust Areas:

Front fenders, rocker panels, rear wheel arches, battery tray area, spare tire well.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Ultimate Driving Machine, focus on performance, engineering, and driver engagement.

E28 Introduction:

Introduced in 1981 as the successor to the E12. The E28 was a significant evolution, introducing features like optional ABS and a more refined interior.

535I Introduction:

The 535i designation replaced the 533i in North America for the 1985 model year, featuring the larger M30B34 engine.

M535I Introduction:

Launched in 1984 (Europe) and 1987 (North America), it was a sportier variant of the 5 Series, often featuring M-Technic body kits, sport suspension, and exclusive interior details. It served as a precursor to the M5.

Production Period:

E28 production: 1981-1988

Assembly Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing), South Africa, USA (partial assembly/CKD kits)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Editors Choice:

The E28 5 Series (including variants like the 535i) was frequently praised by automotive journalists of its era for its driving dynamics and performance, often appearing on '10Best' lists.

Performance Reviews:

Consistently lauded for its responsive steering, powerful inline-six engine, and well-balanced chassis, cementing BMW's reputation for sport sedans.

Historic Significance:

Considered a benchmark for executive sport sedans of its generation, influencing future BMW designs and driving standards.