Vehicle Segment:
Compact Executive Sport Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional technicians
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo Milano
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for sharp handling, balanced chassis, and driver engagement
Engine Performance:
Smooth and potent inline-six engine
Build Quality:
Typical BMW solid construction for its era
Benefit:
Empowers owners and technicians with the knowledge to maintain and repair the vehicle effectively
Engine:
M20B25 (inline-six cylinder)
Fuel System:
Bosch Motronic (EFI)
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition, distributors
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipework
Transmission Manual:
Getrag 260 (5-speed)
Transmission Automatic:
ZF 4HP22 (4-speed)
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD), differential, driveshafts
Suspension Front:
MacPherson struts, control arms, sway bar
Suspension Rear:
Semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs
Steering System:
Recirculating ball, power steering
Braking System:
Front discs, rear discs, ABS (optional/standard)
Electrical System:
12V system, battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting
Body And Chassis:
Frame, body panels, doors, hood, trunk
HVAC System:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning
Interior Trim:
Seats, dashboard, door panels
Safety Systems:
Seat belts, airbags (driver-side, later models/optional)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement
Engine Overhaul:
Complete rebuild procedures, piston/ring replacement, cylinder head work
Transmission Repair:
Internal component replacement, clutch service (manual), valve body service (auto)
Brake System Repair:
Pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding, ABS diagnostics
Suspension Repair:
Component replacement (shocks, struts, bushings, ball joints, tie rods)
Steering System Repair:
Rack and pinion service, pump replacement, hose replacement
Electrical Diagnostics:
Component testing, wiring harness repair, fuse/relay troubleshooting
Fuel Injection Service:
Injector cleaning/replacement, fuel pump testing, pressure regulator service
Cooling System Service:
Thermostat replacement, radiator flush, coolant leak diagnosis
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant recharge, compressor service, blower motor replacement
Bodywork Repair:
Panel replacement, dent repair, rust remediation
Interior Component Installation:
Seat removal/installation, dashboard disassembly
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic fault finding for common issues
Depth:
Professional Technician Level
Diagnostics Detail:
Detailed diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor data interpretation
Torque Specifications:
Complete list for all critical fasteners
Clearances And Tolerances:
Engine component clearances, bearing tolerances, etc.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, system-specific diagrams
Oil Change:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on driving conditions and oil used; check manual for specific recommendations)
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (typically Bosch W7DC or similar)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (high-quality synthetic)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or III (as per manual)
Engine Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, rear main seal
Cooling System:
Cracked plastic radiator end tanks, hose failures, water pump leaks
Suspension:
Wear in control arm bushings, trailing arm bushings, ball joints
Electrical:
Wiring harness degradation (engine bay), fuse box issues, fuel pump relay failure
Body:
Rust (wheel arches, rocker panels, battery tray)
