Positioning:
Essential resource for owners and independent mechanics seeking detailed technical information for the iconic E30 3 Series.
Value Proposition:
Offers extensive coverage of multiple engine variants and chassis configurations within the E30 generation, providing significant value for DIY enthusiasts and professionals.
Highlight:
Comprehensive 1313-page guide covering a wide range of models and maintenance/repair procedures.
Primary Coverage:
Workshop repair and service
Model Years Covered:
1985-1990
Engine Variants Covered:
316/316i (M10), 316i/318i (M40), 318is (M42), 320i/323i/325e/325i (M20), 320is (S14), 324d/324td (M21)
Type:
Workshop Repair Manual / Service Manual
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Propeller Shaft, Rear Axle
Chassis:
Steering, Brakes, Wheels and Tires, Suspension Systems, Pedals
Bodywork:
Body, Body Equipment, Seats, Hood, Sunroof, Body Cavity Seating and Undercoating
Electrical:
Engine Electrical Equipment, Electrical System, Instruments, Lights, Heating and Air Conditioning, Radio and Special Equipment
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, lubrication, general data
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for various systems, diagnostic trouble codes (where applicable for era)
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems
Rebuilds:
Engine and transmission rebuild procedures, component overhauls
Installation:
Procedures for installation of various accessories and equipment
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to in-depth mechanical and electrical repairs
E30 M10 Variants:
316/316i (M10): Typically 1.8L, 90-105 hp. 318i (M10): 1.8L, 105 hp.
E30 M40 Variants:
316i/318i (M40): 1.8L, 100-115 hp.
E30 M42 Variants:
318is (M42): 1.8L DOHC, 138 hp.
E30 M20 Variants:
320i/323i (M20): 2.0L-2.3L, 125-148 hp. 325e (M20): 2.7L 'Eta', 121-125 hp. 325i (M20): 2.5L, 168-170 hp.
E30 S14 Variants:
320is (S14): 2.3L DOHC (derived from M3), 192 hp.
E30 M21 Variants:
324d (M21): 2.4L Diesel, ~86 hp. 324td (M21): 2.4L Turbo Diesel, ~115 hp.
Horsepower Range:
~86 hp (324d) to ~192 hp (320is/M3 variant)
Injection Systems:
Bosch L-Jetronic, Motronic (various versions)
Carburetion:
Solex or Pierburg carburetors on some earlier/lower-spec models (e.g., 316)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2566 mm (101.0 in)
Length:
Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1670 mm (65.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1100 kg to 1350 kg, depending on engine and equipment
Safety Era Context:
As per 1980s safety standards; equipped with safety-conscious features for its time.
Braking System:
Disc brakes front, drum brakes rear (standard on most models), disc brakes front and rear on higher-performance variants (e.g., 325i, M3).
Steering System:
Recirculating ball steering (some models offered power steering).
Seatbelts:
Standard front seatbelts, optional rear seatbelts.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger safety cell.
Audio Systems:
Factory radio units (e.g., Bavaria C, possibly with cassette), optional premium sound systems.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some later models.
Connectivity Features:
Basic; primarily focused on vehicle operation and comfort features.
Oil Change Frequency:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Check manual for specifics.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine, often around 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for M40, M42, M20, M21 engines. Typically 40,000-60,000 miles (64,000-96,000 km). M10 and S14 use chains. Critical to consult manual for exact interval and procedure.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 generally recommended. Specific viscosity may vary with climate. Consult manual for precise BMW approval (e.g., BMW Longlife-98 for later approvals).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). BMW blue or green coolant compatible. Capacity approx. 6-7 liters.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Capacity approx. 1.3-1.5 liters.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF. Capacity approx. 1.2-1.5 liters (pan fill).
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Capacity approx. 1.3-1.5 liters.
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (hoses, expansion tank), fuel distributor issues (M10/M20), ABS sensor failure (if equipped), rust (especially on fenders, rocker panels, rear arches), fuel pump failure, door panel separation, window regulator issues, distributor cap/rotor wear.
Engine Specific Issues:
M20 oil leaks from head gasket/front crank seal, M40 timing belt breaks are catastrophic.
Bmw Legacy:
Built upon BMW's reputation for sporty driving dynamics and engineering quality.
E30 Significance:
The E30 is considered one of BMW's most iconic and successful models, defining the compact executive car segment for its era.
Production Period:
1982-1994 (worldwide production, with E30 variants covered by this manual from 1985-1990)
Body Styles:
2-door sedan, 4-door sedan, convertible, wagon (Touring - later addition).
Automotive Press:
Widely praised by automotive press for its driving dynamics, build quality, and handling, contributing to its status as a modern classic.
Reliability Reputation:
Generally good reliability for its era, but many components require proactive maintenance due to age.
