🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Chassis Code:

E30

Model Year:

1986

Engine Codes Covered:

M10 (e.g., 318i), M20 (e.g., 325e, 325i)

Body Styles Covered:

2-door Sedan (Saloon), 4-door Sedan (Saloon), Convertible

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW E30 3 Series is a landmark model that cemented BMW's reputation for sporty sedans and coupes. It appealed to drivers seeking performance, handling, and build quality in a compact luxury package.

Competitors:

Competed directly with models like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, and the Ford Sierra XR4i.

Performance Handling:

Renowned for its near-perfect weight distribution, responsive steering, and engaging driving dynamics, thanks to its rear-wheel-drive chassis and independent suspension.

Design:

Classic BMW 'Neue Klasse' design language, attributed to Claus Luthe, featuring clean lines and a driver-focused cockpit.

Value:

Essential for owners and independent mechanics to maintain, diagnose, and repair this iconic and increasingly collectible vehicle accurately, saving time and money compared to dealer service.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance instructions for the 1986 BMW 3 Series E30.

Specific Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, clutch, transmission (manual and automatic), driveshaft, differential, suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes, electrical system (including wiring diagrams), body, climate control, lubrication.

Estimated Page Count:

Refer to product for exact count; typically 800-1200 pages for comprehensive E30 manuals.

Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures for all major engine components including cylinder head, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, timing systems, lubrication system.

Fuel System:

In-depth coverage of fuel injection systems (Bosch L-Jetronic, Motronic), fuel pumps, injectors, fuel pressure regulators, fuel filters, and diagnostic procedures.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all circuits, starter system, charging system (alternator, voltage regulator), lighting, instrumentation, power windows, central locking, and diagnostic troubleshooting for electrical faults.

Suspension Steering:

Front McPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arm suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, sway bars, steering rack, power steering system, and alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Disc brake systems (front and rear), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for applicable models, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, caliper and rotor replacement, parking brake system.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flushing, brake fluid flush, drive belt inspection and replacement, battery maintenance.

Major Repairs:

Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, head gasket replacement, timing belt/chain replacement, suspension component replacement, brake system rebuild.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic tables, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common issues related to engine performance, electrical faults, starting problems, and braking issues.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specific BMW special tools required for certain repair procedures.

Depth:

Extensive; covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic values.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable for efficient information retrieval.

Quality:

High-resolution digital reproduction, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

M10 (4-cylinder) and M20 (6-cylinder)

1986 Engine Options:

Likely includes 318i (1.8L M10), 325e (2.7L M20 'Eta'), and 325i (2.5L M20)

318I Hp Torque:

Approx. 101 hp / 105 lb-ft (M10B18)

325E Hp Torque:

Approx. 121 hp / 170 lb-ft (M20B27 'Eta' - emphasis on torque)

325I Hp Torque:

Approx. 168 hp / 220 Nm (M20B25)

Injection System:

Bosch L-Jetronic (later models) or Bosch Motronic (for some M20 engines)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Valve Adjustment:

Required periodically for M10 engines (mechanical tappets); hydraulic lifters for M20 engines.

🔧 Transmission

Type Standard:

4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission (Getrag 260 for M20, Getrag 240 for M10)

Type Optional:

3-speed or 4-speed ZF automatic transmission

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically operated

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

Typically API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil (refer to manual for exact spec)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW LT-2 or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) - specific type crucial

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Length:

Approx. 170.5 inches (4330 mm) for Sedan

Width:

Approx. 65.7 inches (1669 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.0 inches (1397 mm) for Sedan

Curb Weight:

Varies by model/engine, typically 2600-3000 lbs (1180-1360 kg)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Wheel Offset:

ET+12 to ET+20 typical

Tire Sizes Stock:

Common sizes include 195/60R14, 205/55R14, 205/50VR15 (depending on trim/options)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Era:

E30 models pre-date modern rigorous crash testing standards, but featured crumple zones and a robust safety cage.

ABS:

Optional on some models, particularly 325i and 325e. Manual covers ABS diagnostics and repair.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia reel seatbelts front and rear.

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column designed to absorb impact energy.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory premium audio systems available (e.g., Blaupunkt, Becker) with cassette player. Basic AM/FM radio.

Cruise Control:

Optional on many models.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control).

Phone Integration:

N/A (No factory Bluetooth or smartphone integration).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (consult manual).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km), depending on spark plug type (e.g., standard vs. long-life).

Coolant Flush:

Typically every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Engine Oil:

API SG or higher, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 15W-50 depending on climate. BMW High Performance Synthetic is recommended. Capacity ~4.0-5.0 liters.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity approx. 6.5-8.0 liters.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Must be changed every 2-3 years due to moisture absorption.

Common Faults:

Cracked dashboards, worn door vapor barriers leading to wet carpets, fuel pump and accumulator failures, ignition coil failures, seized blower motors, differential mounts, oil pan gasket leaks, worn sway bar links/bushings.

M20 Engine Specific:

Cracked cylinder head (late M20B25), timing belt tensioner failure, oil leaks from oil filter housing/front crank seal.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

The E30 is the third generation of BMW's '3 Series', building on the legacy of the E21 and the brand's 'ultimate driving machine' ethos.

Production Years:

1982-1994 (Globally), with minor updates throughout its lifespan. The 1986 model year falls into the early-to-mid production phase.

Facelift Info:

The 1986 model year may have received minor updates compared to earlier E30s, such as revised interior trim, improved aerodynamics on some models, or updated M20 engines.

Production Location:

Primarily Germany (Munich), with some production also in South Africa and the USA.

Significance:

Highly influential model, particularly the M3 variant, which dominated touring car racing. The standard E30 is a beloved classic for its purity of driving experience.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, handling, and build quality. Often cited as one of the best sports sedans of its era.

Collector Status:

Increasingly recognized as a modern classic and a desirable collector's item, especially well-maintained examples and performance variants like the 325i and M3 (though M3 is not specific to this manual).