🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

318i

Year:

1988

Chassis Code:

E30

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW 318i (E30) was positioned as an entry-level luxury sports sedan, offering BMW's renowned driving dynamics and build quality in a more accessible package. It competed with models like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, and various Japanese premium sedans.

Competitive Analysis:

The E30 3 Series, particularly the 318i, excelled in handling and driver engagement due to its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive layout, and responsive steering, often outperforming competitors in outright driving pleasure.

Key Features:

Iconic E30 chassis, proven M10/M40 engine reliability, sporty handling, driver-focused interior, excellent build quality for its era.

Handling Characteristics:

Renowned for its precise steering, balanced weight distribution, and independent suspension, providing an engaging driving experience.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All 1988 BMW 318i models, all engines, all trim levels, all transmission types.

Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era).

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical (M10B18, M40B18), fuel system (Bosch LE-Jetronic/Motronic), ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (manual & automatic), clutch, driveline, suspension (front & rear), steering, brakes (front disc, rear drum/disc), electrical system (wiring diagrams, components), bodywork, interior, HVAC, diagnostics, troubleshooting.

Fuel Delivery:

Detailed diagnostics for Bosch fuel injection systems (LE-Jetronic/Motronic), including fuel pressure testing, injector testing, and sensor troubleshooting.

Ignition System:

Covers distributor, ignition coil, spark plug wires, and electronic control unit (ECU) diagnostics and testing.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, heater core, fan clutch/electric fan (if equipped), and all associated hoses and connections.

Suspension System:

Front McPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, and anti-roll bars.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, major repairs, component removal and installation, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, overhaul instructions, electrical system testing, torque specifications, fluid capacities and types, wheel alignment, clutch adjustment, brake bleeding, engine tuning.

Engine Overhaul:

Complete procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including valve adjustments, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, and cylinder head work.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including starter, alternator, lighting, gauges, and accessories, with troubleshooting flowcharts.

Drivetrain Maintenance:

Repair and replacement of driveshaft, CV joints, differential, and wheel bearings.

Brake System Repair:

Detailed instructions for caliper overhaul, disc and pad replacement, brake line repairs, and bleeding procedures.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive and detailed, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Tools:

Instructions on using basic hand tools and common automotive diagnostic equipment for troubleshooting E30-specific electrical and mechanical faults.

Torque Specifications:

Extensive torque specifications for all fasteners, engine components, suspension parts, and body panels.

Electrical Schematics:

Full-color, detailed wiring schematics for comprehensive electrical system diagnosis and repair.

Diagnostic Codes:

Information on reading diagnostic codes if the vehicle is equipped with early on-board diagnostics (OBD) or troubleshooting based on fault symptoms.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Searchable PDF, high-resolution scans, printable pages.

Print Quality:

High-resolution clarity for all diagrams, schematics, and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Type:

M10B18 (early 1988 models) - 1.8L inline-4, SOHC; M40B18 (later 1988 models) - 1.8L inline-4, DOHC.

Horsepower:

Approximately 101-107 hp (depending on specific engine variant and market).

Torque:

Approximately 103-110 lb-ft (depending on specific engine variant and market).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel System Type:

Bosch Motronic or LE-Jetronic fuel injection.

Bore X Stroke:

84 mm x 81 mm (M10B18); 81 mm x 84 mm (M40B18).

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1 or 9.0:1 (depending on engine variant).

Firing Order:

1-3-4-2

Engine Block Material:

Cast iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum alloy

Valvetrain:

SOHC (M10) with pushrods and rockers; DOHC (M40) with chain-driven camshafts.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed manual transmission.

Optional Transmission:

3-speed automatic transmission (ZF 3HP22).

Transmission Features:

Rear-wheel drive, robust build quality for both manual and automatic units.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2570 mm (101.2 in)

Length:

4340 mm (170.9 in)

Width:

1675 mm (65.9 in)

Height:

1380 mm (54.3 in)

Front Track:

1404 mm (55.3 in)

Rear Track:

1431 mm (56.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1200-1280 kg (2646-2822 lbs), depending on options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1700 kg (3748 lbs).

Front Axle Load:

Approx. 790 kg (1742 lbs).

Rear Axle Load:

Approx. 910 kg (2006 lbs).

Interior Volume:

Approx. 90 cu ft passenger volume.

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 12 cu ft (trunk).

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

No standardized crash test ratings from modern organizations for this era, but E30 chassis generally considered robust for its time.

Active Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes (on some models, e.g., 318is, though 318i typically front disc/rear drum), independent suspension, excellent weight distribution.

Brake System Layout:

Front: Ventilated discs; Rear: Drums (standard on 318i Sedan) or discs (on some variants/options).

Passive Features:

Steel unibody construction, padded dashboard, three-point seatbelts (front).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional premium sound system.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS was an optional extra on some E30 models, but not standard on all 318i variants.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for precise BMW recommendation).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 30,000 miles (may vary based on plug type).

Timing Belt Replacement:

The M40 engine uses a timing belt, typically recommended for replacement every 60,000 miles or 4 years. The M10 engine uses a timing chain, which generally lasts the life of the engine but may require tensioner adjustment.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (depending on climate). BMW High Performance Synthetic is recommended.

Coolant Specification:

BMW Coolant (ethylene glycol based) mixed with distilled water in a 50/50 ratio.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 75W-80 synthetic gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF Dexron II.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II (verify in manual).

Differential Fluid:

API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (for standard differential).

Common Issues:

Rust (wheel arches, rocker panels, battery tray), fuel distributor diaphragm leaks (M10), injector seals, idle control valve issues (M40), cooling system leaks (hoses, radiator, water pump), window regulator failures, headliner sagging, front sway bar link wear, oil pan gasket leaks.

Fuel System Wear Items:

O-rings on injectors, fuel pump strainers, and fuel accumulator can degrade over time.

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

Mann-Filter W 914/2 or Bosch 3330 (verify for specific engine).

Air Filter Part Number Example:

Mann-Filter C 27 144 or Bosch 42444 (verify for specific engine).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW, established in 1916, has a long-standing reputation for building performance-oriented luxury vehicles, often referred to as 'The Ultimate Driving Machine'.

Model Evolution:

The 318i is part of the E30 generation (1982-1991), which was a significant evolution from the E21. The E30 introduced more modern styling, improved safety, and a wider range of engine options, including the 4-cylinder 318i which served as the accessible entry point.

Key Engine Updates For E30:

The introduction of the M40 engine in later E30 models brought dual overhead cams and more modern fuel injection for improved efficiency and emissions, although the M10 remained a simpler, robust design.

Production Years:

The E30 318i sedan variant was produced from 1982 to 1991. The 1988 model year falls within this span.

Production Location:

Primarily manufactured in Munich, Germany, and Dingolfing, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1988 318i are not readily cataloged, the E30 generation as a whole was widely praised for its engineering, performance, and durability, contributing to BMW's strong reputation.