🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

528e

Generation:

E28

Model Years Covered:

1987, 1988

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Technicians, mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, BMW E28 owners

Value Proposition:

Low price, great quality, instant access, comprehensive coverage for electronic troubleshooting and general repair

Unique Selling Points:

Focus on electronic troubleshooting, factory-level technical data, immediate availability

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Electronic Troubleshooting

Secondary Coverage:

General Maintenance, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Electrical System, Suspension, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection, Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds to Thousands (Printable)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual / Electronic Troubleshooting Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for larger files)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Fuel Injection, Fuel System, Cooling System, Transmission, Differential/Drive, Axle

Chassis And Suspension:

Suspension, Steering, Brake System, Chassis/Body

Electrical And Electronics:

Electrical System, Wiring Diagram, Engine Control System, Electronic Troubleshooting

Comfort And Convenience:

Heater/Air Conditioning, Interior, Restraint System

Maintenance:

General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication, Maintenance Check List, Maintenance Chart, Service Instruction

Repair And Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System Repair, Suspension Repair, Steering Repair, Cooling System Repair, Fuel Injection Service, Fuel System Repair, Emission System Repair, Electrical System Repair, Chassis/Body Repair, Interior Repair, Differential/Drive Repair, Axle Repair

Diagnostic Focus:

Advanced electronic troubleshooting, circuit diagrams, equipment data sheets

Repair Level:

Comprehensive, suitable for technicians and mechanics

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

GREAT QUALITY, printable

Searchability:

Implied searchable text within PDF format

Binding:

Digital Download (PDF)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M20B27 (likely)

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

2.7 Liters (approx. 2693 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 81.0 mm

Horsepower Approximate:

121-127 hp @ 4250-4800 rpm (depending on specific market tune and year)

Torque Approximate:

170-177 lb-ft @ 2500-3250 rpm (depending on specific market tune and year)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic Fuel Injection (likely Motronic 1.1 or 1.3)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

ECU Type:

Bosch Motronic

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission

Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission

Clutch:

Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch (manual)

Final Drive Ratio:

Typically 3.46:1 (manual), 3.07:1 or 3.25:1 (automatic, depending on market and spec)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4700 mm (185.0 in)

Width:

1775 mm (69.9 in)

Height:

1415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase:

2700 mm (106.3 in)

Curb Weight Approximate:

1500-1570 kg (3300-3460 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approximate:

1950-2000 kg (4300-4410 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Passive Safety Features:

Front and rear crumple zones, reinforced passenger compartment, driver's side airbag (optional/standard depending on market/late production), seat belts

Braking System:

Four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated front), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - often standard on later models or optional

Steering:

Power-assisted rack and pinion steering

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM cassette stereo with optional amplifier and speaker upgrades (e.g., Hi-Fi system)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, often standard on late models.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system on most models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first (check manual for precise recommendations)

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Approximately 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on plug type (e.g., standard vs. platinum)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 for most conditions (refer to manual for specific viscosity and API service classification)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue or equivalent Ethylene Glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III or equivalent ATF

Common Problems:

Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel distributor/pump issues, aging electrical connectors, seized starter solenoids, differential seal leaks, suspension bushing wear, timing belt maintenance (M20 is a belt-driven engine, critical for replacement)

Electrical System Notes:

Degradation of wiring insulation over time, especially in engine bay and under dashboard. Focus on troubleshooting electrical gremlins is crucial.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Philosophy:

BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, emphasis on performance, engineering, and luxury sedans

E28 Platform Notes:

The second generation of BMW's 5 Series, known for its refined driving dynamics, classic design, and advanced (for its time) technology. The E28 was produced from 1981 to 1988. The 528e was introduced as an economy-focused variant with the M20 engine, often tuned for low-end torque and fuel efficiency.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (primarily Dingolfing)

Production Years E28:

1981-1988

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Reputation:

The E28 chassis is widely regarded as a benchmark for driving pleasure, build quality, and timeless design in its era. The 528e offered a good balance of performance and efficiency for its time.