Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, independent repair shops seeking detailed information for maintaining and repairing the E30 318i.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Volvo 240 series.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, RWD dynamics, and engaging driving experience.
Build Quality:
Known for BMW's typical high build quality and driver-focused interior.
Primary Coverage:
Full Service, Repair, Maintenance, Rebuilding, Refurbishing, Restoration
Diagnostic Coverage:
All diagnostic procedures
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by publisher; typically 500-1000+ pages for a comprehensive manual of this era.
Manual Type:
Full Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Print (typically a physical book)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valve train, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic).
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starter, alternator, battery, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics and wiring diagrams.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Getrag 240), automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22 - if applicable), clutch system, drivetrain, driveshafts, differentials.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (semi-trailing arms), steering system, wheel bearings, shock absorbers, springs, bushings.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or discs on some later E30 variants), brake hydraulics, parking brake, ABS (if equipped).
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable for market), muffler, exhaust pipes.
Electrical System Body:
Lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), wipers, horn, power windows (if equipped), central locking (if equipped), fuse box, relays, wiring diagrams for body circuits.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, seats, dashboard, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning).
Maintenance Tasks:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid change, differential fluid change, belt inspection/replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul, fuel injector cleaning/replacement, alternator/starter replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting engine performance issues, electrical faults, starting problems, braking system issues using specified diagnostic steps and readings.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearances, valve adjustments, bearing tolerances.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Assumes a moderate to advanced mechanical aptitude.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical for this era).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Manual: Check level periodically, change as needed. Automatic: Every 30,000-50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact spec).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., BMW Blue or equivalent), 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II (or equivalent compatible fluid).
Common Issues Engine:
Head gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, vacuum leaks, ignition system component failures (e.g., coil, distributor cap/rotor).
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn bushings (control arm, trailing arm), failing front strut mounts, worn ball joints.
Common Issues Electrical:
Corroded wiring connectors, faulty heater control valves, deteriorating dashboard illumination, fuel pump relay issues.
Common Issues Body:
Rust in common E30 areas (rocker panels, fender wells, battery tray), sunroof drain issues.
Oil Filter Example:
Mann Filter W914/2, Mahle OC26, Bosch 026 150 0003 (Verify for specific engine variant).
Air Filter Example:
Mann Filter C2513, Mahle LX100 (Verify for specific engine variant).
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused vehicles with excellent engineering and sporty handling.
E30 Introduction:
The E30 generation was introduced in 1982, replacing the E21. It was a significant evolution in design and engineering.
318I Positioning:
The 318i was positioned as the entry-level model in the 3 Series lineup, offering a more affordable yet still premium German driving experience.
Production Years:
E30 production ran from 1982 to 1994. The 318i model with the M10 engine was prominent in the earlier years of this generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing)
