Target Audience:
Technicians, mechanics, and DIY enthusiasts seeking detailed repair and troubleshooting information for the E28 524TD.
Segment:
Executive Sedan (mid-size luxury)
Value Proposition:
Provides complete factory information, electronic troubleshooting focus, and instant access at a low price point.
Manual Advantage:
Offers a specialized focus on electronic troubleshooting for a classic diesel BMW, which can be harder to find than general repair manuals.
Powertrain:
Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Fuel Injection System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Brake System, Suspension, Steering System, Differential/Drive Axle
Electrical:
Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams, Engine Control System, Electronic Troubleshooting
Body And Interior:
Chassis/Body, Heater/Air Conditioning, Interior, Restraint System
Emission Control:
Emission System
Climate Control:
Heater/Air Conditioning System
Wheels And Tires:
Tyre rotation (implied within general maintenance)
Lighting:
Lights (implied within electrical system)
Valvetrain:
Valves (implied within engine service/repair)
Engine Management:
Engine Control System (including diesel-specific ECUs and sensors)
Exhaust System:
Exhaust System (including turbo-related components)
Maintenance:
General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication, Maintenance Check List, Maintenance Chart, Service Instruction
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting, Electronic Troubleshooting specific to the vehicle's systems
Troubleshooting Specifics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for common electronic and mechanical faults specific to the E28 524TD.
Repair Guidance:
Step-by-step repair instructions for major vehicle components and systems.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed troubleshooting procedures for wiring harness faults, sensor malfunctions, and ECU issues.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level repair and diagnostic information, including electrical schematics and troubleshooting trees.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information that would enable the use of basic diagnostic tools and understanding of electrical signals.
Schematics Detail:
Includes comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, crucial for troubleshooting.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder Turbodiesel
Displacement:
2.4 Liters (2443 cc)
Injection Type:
Bosch VE Rotary Injection Pump with Turbocharging
Turbocharger Details:
Garrett T3 turbocharger or equivalent, with intercooler.
Estimated Horsepower:
115 hp @ 4800 rpm (approximate, model specific)
Estimated Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (approximate, model specific)
Engine Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3300-3500 lbs (depending on options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4300-4500 lbs
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2649 mm)
Overall Length:
Approx. 188.4 inches (4785 mm)
Overall Width:
Approx. 68.5 inches (1740 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 54.7 inches (1390 mm)
Standard Tire Size:
Typically 195/70R14 or 205/60R15 (check specific vehicle).
Restraint System:
Seat belts, Crumple zones
Braking System:
Front ventilated disc brakes, Rear solid disc brakes (typically)
Crash Test Data:
While official NHTSA ratings for this specific year/model are scarce, the E28 platform was known for its solid construction and safety features for its era.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for precise interval).
Engine Oil:
API CD/CE or ACEA B3/B4 rated diesel engine oil, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (verify specific viscosity based on climate from manual).
Coolant:
BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol-based, silicate-free) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (verify specific viscosity, e.g., 75W-90).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent (verify specific type).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid or compatible ATF.
Common Problems:
Glow plug issues, Injector pump leaks, Turbocharger wear, Overheating (due to cooling system age), Suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints), Rust (particularly in common areas like wheel arches and rocker panels).
E28 Generation Overview:
The E28 generation (1981-1988) was the second iteration of the BMW 5 Series, succeeding the E12. It featured a more modern design, improved aerodynamics, and a wider range of engine options, including the introduction of turbodiesel powerplants like the M21.
E28 524Td Significance:
The 524TD was one of BMW's early successful turbodiesel offerings in North America, providing a blend of performance and fuel efficiency for the executive sedan segment.
Production Years:
1981-1988 (E28 platform)
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy emphasizes performance, handling, and driver engagement, which the E28 524TD embodied with its capable chassis and direct steering, even in turbodiesel form.
