🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Generation:

E30

Model Year Covered:

1987

Chassis Code:

E30

👋 Introduction

E30 Market Niche:

Compact executive sports sedan, known for its balance of performance, handling, and build quality

Key Competitors 1987:

Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Volvo 240

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its sharp handling, rear-wheel drive platform, and driver-focused cockpit

Design Era:

Marked a shift in BMW's design language, more angular and modern than previous generations

Performance Variants:

Introduction of iconic M3 model, and powerful inline-six engines in later years

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

All gasoline engines for 1987 E30 models

Transmission Coverage:

Manual and automatic transmissions

Chassis Coverage:

Suspension, steering, brakes, exhaust, body structure

Electrical Coverage:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting, charging, accessories

Body Coverage:

Interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific publication, typically 800-1500 pages

Manual Classification:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Primary Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

Print Format:

Printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), ignition timing, emission controls

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant flow, fan operation

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil passages, oil pressure testing

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter, fuel tank

Braking System:

Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), disc/drum specifications, pad/rotor replacement, bleeding procedures

Suspension System:

Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications

Steering System:

Rack and pinion, power steering pump, fluid replacement, tie rod ends

HVAC System:

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning components, refrigerant servicing (where applicable to the year)

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks, belt inspections

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Common faults, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical troubleshooting charts

Engine Overhaul:

Engine disassembly, component inspection, reassembly, torque specifications

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement, gearbox disassembly/reassembly, automatic transmission service

Brake System Repair:

Caliber rebuild, master cylinder replacement, brake line repair

Electrical Component Replacement:

Alternator, starter, battery, sensors, actuators

Bodywork Repair:

Panel replacement, door hinge adjustment, glass replacement

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds

Diagnostic Level:

Advanced, including diagnostic trouble codes (where applicable) and sensor data interpretation

Repair Scope:

Full vehicle repair, component-level diagnostics and replacement

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable for quick information retrieval

Illustration Quality:

High-resolution diagrams and illustrations

Physical Format Binding:

Not applicable for PDF, but for physical copies, often spiral-bound or perfect-bound for durability

Physical Format Paper:

Not applicable for PDF, but for physical copies, typically high-quality, durable paper

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes 1987:

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

Engine M10 Displacement:

1.8L (1766cc)

Engine M10 Variants:

318i

Engine M20B25 Displacement:

2.5L (2494cc)

Engine M20B25 Variants:

325i, 325e (2.7L - Eta variant)

Engine M10 Horsepower:

~100-105 hp

Engine M10 Torque:

~101-105 lb-ft

Engine M20B25 Horsepower:

~168-170 hp

Engine M20B25 Torque:

~164-167 lb-ft

Fuel Injection Type:

Bosch L-Jetronic (M10), Bosch Motronic (M20)

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded gasoline, Octane rating typically 91 RON (95 ROZ)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Base:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual

Transmission Type Optional:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulic actuation

Differential:

Open differential standard; limited-slip differential (LSD) optional

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW recommends specific manual transmission fluids, e.g., SAF-XJ 75W-140 or equivalent GL-4/GL-5

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2570 mm (101.2 in)

Length:

Approx. 4355-4415 mm (171.5-173.8 in) depending on body style (sedan, coupe, convertible)

Width:

Approx. 1675-1700 mm (65.9-66.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1370-1380 mm (53.9-54.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1150-1300 kg (2535-2866 lbs) depending on model and equipment

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, typically around 1700-1850 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results Era:

E30 predates modern rigorous crash testing standards like Euro NCAP; documented safety features reflect 1980s standards.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System available as an option on most models

Limited Slip Differential:

Optional LSD can improve traction and stability during acceleration

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts in front and rear

Body Structure:

Reinforced passenger cell, energy-absorbing crumple zones

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column for occupant safety

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory options included AM/FM radio, cassette player, and upgraded speaker systems from brands like Blaupunkt or Bavaria C

Climate Control:

Manual climate control standard; optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control) on higher trims

Cruise Control:

Optional feature on many models

Onboard Computer:

Optional 'Check Control' system for monitoring fluid levels, lights, and basic system status

Original Connectivity:

N/A (pre-modern connectivity era); Analog systems

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 12 months, depending on driving conditions

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km) for standard plugs

Timing Belt Replacement:

M10 engines use a timing chain; M20 engines use a timing belt. Interval typically 40,000-60,000 miles (64,000-96,000 km) or 5 years. **Crucial for M20 engines as failure causes severe damage.**

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG/SH or higher. Viscosity typically 10W-40 or 15W-50, consult manual for specific engine/climate recommendations. BMW High Performance Synthetic 5W-30/5W-40 was also common.

Coolant Specification:

BMW specified ethylene glycol-based coolant. Mix 50/50 with distilled water. BMW's own coolant is recommended.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II or III, or BMW CHF 11 S (check specific vehicle application)

Common E30 Problems:

Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel pump failures, sagging headliner, rust (wheel arches, rocker panels, battery tray), worn suspension bushings, cracked dashboard, seized heater control valves.

Engine Specific Issues:

M10: Oil leaks from rear main seal. M20: Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, intake manifold gaskets; potential head gasket issues if overheated; timing belt tensioner failure. M20 'Eta' engines (325e) have lower redline and different cam profile.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', emphasizing performance and engineering excellence

E30 Introduction Year:

1982

E30 Body Styles:

2-door sedan, 4-door sedan, convertible, and the iconic M3 hatchback (though M3 is a distinct variant)

E30 Design Philosophy:

Designed by Claus Luthe, aimed at improving aerodynamics and interior space over the E21

E30 Production Years:

1982-1991

E30 Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), South Africa, Austria, USA (CKD kits)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E30 Model Accolades:

Consistently ranked as one of the best driver's cars of its era. E30 M3 is a legendary motorsport icon.

Reliability Perception:

Generally good, but requires diligent maintenance due to age. Robust mechanicals but electrical components can be prone to age-related issues.