Market Position:
The E30 325i represented the pinnacle of BMW's compact executive sports sedan in its era, celebrated for its balanced handling, responsive inline-six engine, and driver-focused design.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed directly with rivals like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90 Quattro, and performance variants of Japanese sedans, often lauded for superior driving dynamics.
Key Features:
Iconic 'Hoffmeister kink' C-pillar, robust M20 inline-six engine, rear-wheel drive bias, excellent chassis balance, durable construction, and timeless styling.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Body, HVAC, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Interior Components
Page Count:
Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Systems Covered:
Complete coverage of mechanical, electrical, and body systems specific to the E30 325i chassis from 1987-1991.
Engine Mechanical:
Cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, pump, lines, injectors, fuel distributor, cold start injector, pressure regulator.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, detailed repair procedures, diagnostic troubleshooting, component removal and installation, specifications, wiring diagrams, exploded views, torque values, adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive list of torque values for critical fasteners across all systems.
Wiring Diagrams:
Full electrical schematics for engine, chassis, lighting, and accessories, crucial for diagnostics.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic oil changes and fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical troubleshooting, and body panel repair.
Ignition System:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor, ignition module, wiring.
Charging System:
Alternator, voltage regulator, battery.
Starting System:
Starter motor, ignition switch.
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lights, wiring diagrams.
Brake System:
Hydraulic system, master cylinder, brake boosters, ABS components (if equipped), caliper and disc service, drum brake service (rear), parking brake.
Suspension System:
Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arm independent suspension, control arms, ball joints, tie rods, shock absorbers, springs, sway bars, bushings.
Steering System:
Steering rack, power steering pump, hoses, steering column, wheel alignment specifications.
Body Exterior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, windows, trim.
Body Interior:
Seat removal, dashboard components, interior trim panels, headliner.
HVAC System:
Heating system, ventilation, A/C system (compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant charging, controls), heater core, blower motor.
Length:
Approx. 4300-4340 mm (169.3-170.9 inches) depending on bumper style
Width:
Approx. 1670-1680 mm (65.7-66.1 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 inches)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1250-1350 kg (2755-2976 lbs) depending on transmission and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 1700-1800 kg (3748-3968 lbs)
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 420 Liters (14.8 cu ft)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for M20 engines. Typically every 60,000 miles or 5 years. Failure causes catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 recommended. BMW approved oils preferred.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Pentosin MTF LT-1 or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 75W-80 or 75W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent) ATF. Consult manual for specific BMW approval.
Known Issues:
Head gasket leaks (especially M20), coolant leaks (hose failures, plastic expansion tank), fuel distributor issues, OBC (On-Board Computer) failures, seized heater control valves, odometer gear failure (mechanical), rust (rocker panels, wheel arches, battery tray).
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings (bushings often press-in types), strut mounts, and rear trailing arm bushings are common.
