Era:
Represents the entry-level sport sedan offering from BMW in the late 1980s.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and owners looking for in-depth technical information for DIY maintenance and repair.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz 190E and Audi 80/90.
Bmw Philosophy:
Emphasizes driving dynamics, build quality, and a driver-focused experience.
Manual Value:
Essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of this classic BMW.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, overhaul, and adjustments.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, differential, axles, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake, ABS (if equipped).
Steering:
Steering gear, linkage, power steering system.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, alternator, starter, battery, lighting, instrumentation.
Body:
Body panel repair, doors, windows, interior trim, convertible top (if applicable).
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical fault finding.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components.
Rebuilds:
Engine and transmission rebuild procedures with torque specifications.
Adjustments:
Valve adjustments, idle speed adjustments, brake adjustments.
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, pressures.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Detail Level:
Factory-level diagnostic procedures and repair methods.
Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable within the PDF for quick information retrieval.
Printability:
Designed to be printable, allowing users to create a physical copy.
Binding Recommendation:
Suitable for binding into a workshop manual format.
Paper Recommendation:
Standard paper for printing.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1796 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.0 mm x 71.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 8.5:1
Horsepower:
98 hp @ 5800 rpm (typical for M10B18 in this application)
Torque:
103 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (typical)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection (specific to model variant)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 Octane (or higher recommended)
Crash Test Performance:
E30 chassis generally performed well for its era, though specific 1987 318i NHTSA ratings may vary.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option or standard on some trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts, potentially with pre-tensioners.
Head Restraints:
Adjustable front and rear head restraints.
Radio:
Factory AM/FM cassette stereo, often with premium sound options.
Speakers:
Typically 4-6 speaker system.
ABS:
As mentioned, ABS was an optional safety feature.
Connectivity Features:
Minimal by modern standards; primarily focused on basic vehicle operation.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months (check manual for specific recommendation).
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 miles (or as per manual, depending on plug type).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific temperature ranges and approvals).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol based with corrosion inhibitors (50/50 mix).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid).
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Cooling System:
Cracked coolant expansion tanks, deteriorating hoses, and water pump leaks are common.
Fuel System:
Clogged injectors, failing fuel pumps, and worn fuel pressure regulators.
Electrical:
Corroded grounds, failing alternator regulators, and intermittent issues due to aged wiring.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and rear trailing arm bushings.
Interior:
Cracked dashboard, worn seat bolsters, and malfunctioning gauge clusters.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-oriented, sporty sedans.
E30 Generation:
The E30 generation (1982-1991) is highly regarded for its iconic design and driving dynamics.
318I Positioning:
The 318i was introduced to offer a more affordable, fuel-efficient entry into the 3 Series line.
Production Period:
The E30 318i was produced from 1983 through 1991 (though the 1.8L engine was phased out in favor of the 1.8L M40 engine in some markets earlier).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany.
