🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Generation:

E30

Model Year:

1986

Chassis Code:

E30

Engine Code Variants:

S14B23

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Performance Sedan/Coupe segment, iconic homologation special.

Key Competitors:

Ford Sierra RS Cosworth, Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16, Alfa Romeo GTV6.

Distinctive Attributes:

Legendary motorsport heritage, homologation special for racing series (DTM, Group A), bespoke body panels (fender flares, front air dam, rear spoiler), stiffened chassis, potent S14 engine, exceptional handling.

Manual Benefit:

Essential tool for maintaining the performance and originality of a highly sought-after classic performance car.

📋 Manual Details

Market Coverage:

All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmission Types for 1986 BMW E30 M3

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 800-1200 (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era, exact count may vary by specific edition)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete engine overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, lubrication, cooling, emissions control.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (Getrag 265) repair and overhaul, clutch system, driveshafts, differentials.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, bleeding procedures, parking brake.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, steering rack, power steering system.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, starter, alternator, battery, lighting system, instrument cluster, fuses, relays, ECU diagnostics.

Body Chassis:

Body panel repair, rust prevention, jacking points, interior trim removal, glass replacement, chassis specifications.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.

Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, belt tensioning, fluid checks and top-offs, brake checks.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common symptoms like starting issues, poor performance, electrical faults.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for major component overhauls and replacements.

Diagnostics:

Engine code reading (OBD-I era), sensor testing, electrical continuity checks.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and troubleshooting).

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, searchable PDF with selectable text for easy navigation and printing.

Printable:

Printable pages, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 DOHC

Engine Code:

S14B23

Displacement:

2302 cc (2.3 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

93.7 mm x 84.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.5:1

Horsepower:

192 hp @ 6,900 rpm (European Spec)

Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4,750 rpm (European Spec)

Redline:

7,200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection (later models may have Motronic)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (or equivalent synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40, check manual for specific recommendation)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.0 Liters (with filter)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent ethylene glycol-based)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 Liters

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Model:

Getrag 265

Gear Ratios:

Typical ratios: 3.72, 2.40, 1.71, 1.24, 0.93 (final drive: 3.15)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single dry plate

Optional Transmission:

None (M3 E30 was exclusively manual)

Limited Slip Differential:

Standard (typically 25% lock)

Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil, check manual)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 1.3 Liters

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4,330 mm (170.5 in)

Width:

1,700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

1,370 mm (53.9 in)

Wheelbase:

2,565 mm (101.0 in)

Front Track:

1,404 mm (55.3 in)

Rear Track:

1,420 mm (55.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,200 kg (2,646 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1,700 kg (3,748 lbs)

Towing Capacity:

Not Recommended

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Standard Wheel Size:

15x7 inches (Style 29 or BBS RS)

Standard Tire Size:

205/55 VR 15

Optional Wheel Size:

16x7 inches (optional on later models, check specific market)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited official crash test data available for this specific era and homologation model in many markets. Refer to general E30 chassis safety information.

ABS:

Optional on some models

Seatbelts:

3-point front, 2-point rear (standard)

Rollover Protection:

Integral roll cage structure within the chassis, enhanced rigidity compared to standard E30.

💡 Technology Features

Radio System:

Factory BMW AM/FM Cassette (e.g., Bavaria C II or similar) or optional CD player. Aftermarket upgrades are common.

Speaker System:

Basic 4-speaker system typically.

Cruise Control:

Optional

Trip Computer:

Limited (basic check control system)

Bluetooth Connectivity:

None (Aftermarket addition required)

OBD Standard:

OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, first generation, often accessed via diagnostic port under the hood).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-10,000 miles) or annually, using synthetic oil.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 30,000-40,000 km (20,000-25,000 miles), depending on usage and plug type.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years (DOT 4)

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or compatible hydraulic fluid (check manual)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4

Engine Common Problems:

Valve stem seals, oil pan gasket leaks, timing chain tensioner wear, VANOS (if later model), occasional head gasket issues under extreme use.

Chassis Common Problems:

Subframe mounting points rust, rear shock tower reinforcement cracking, suspension bushing wear, door seal degradation, rust in common E30 areas (wheel arches, rocker panels).

Electrical Common Problems:

Fuse box corrosion, intermittent gauge operation, fuel pump relay failures, wiring harness degradation.

Key Maintenance Focus:

Regular oil changes with quality synthetic, diligent rust inspection and preventative measures, checking and replacing aging rubber components (bushings, hoses, seals).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

BMW's rich history in motorsport, building on success with models like the 2002 and the E21 323i.

Predecessor:

Limited direct predecessor within the M3 lineage, though it built on the E30 chassis platform.

Successor:

BMW E36 M3

Production Years:

1986-1991

Manufacturing Location:

Munich, Germany

Total Production Units:

Approx. 17,970 units (including Evolution models)

Homologation Purpose:

Developed to homologate the E30 for Group A touring car racing, particularly the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

Consistently lauded by automotive press for its handling, driving dynamics, and motorsport pedigree. Often cited as one of the best driver's cars of its era.

Collectible Status:

Highly collectible classic sports car, increasing in value among enthusiasts.