🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series (E30)

Year:

1990

Body Style:

Coupe, Sedan, Convertible, Wagon (Touring)

Generation Code:

E30

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW E30 (1982-1991) is a highly regarded compact executive car, known for its excellent handling, build quality, and driver engagement. The 1990 model year falls within the later production phase of the E30, often considered the most refined.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, and lower-end models from brands like Jaguar and Volvo. Its sportier variants (e.g., 325i, M3) elevated its competitive stance.

Distinguishing Features:

Iconic 'Hofmeister kink' design, rear-wheel drive bias, driver-focused cockpit, robust engineering, and a wide range of engine options. Known for its durability and classic BMW driving dynamics.

Value:

Essential for owners and independent workshops looking to perform maintenance, repairs, and diagnostics on their 1990 BMW E30, saving costs and ensuring proper upkeep of this classic vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Workshop Service Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Overhaul

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive, likely several hundred pages per major section; exact count not specified but implied by comprehensive coverage

Type:

Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Operating Systems:

Windows, macOS

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system, cylinder head, block assembly

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting and charging system, fuel injection system (motronic), engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel injectors, emission control systems

Drivetrain Manual:

Clutch operation, manual transmission removal/installation, gear shift mechanism, propeller shaft, differential

Drivetrain Automatic:

Automatic transmission operation, removal/installation, torque converter, shift control, fluid requirements

Axles Suspension:

Front axle, rear axle, integrated suspension systems (front strut assembly, rear semi-trailing arm), wheel bearings

Steering Alignment:

Steering gear, power steering system, steering column, wheel alignment specifications and procedures

Brakes:

Brake system operation, hydraulic circuits, master cylinder, calipers, brake pads, brake discs, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)

Wheels Tires:

Tire sizes, wheel specifications, bolt patterns, tire pressure recommendations

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass replacement, rust prevention

Body Interior:

Interior trim, seats, dashboard, headliner, door panels

Electrical Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, switches

HVAC:

Heating system, ventilation, air conditioning (A/C) system operation, components, refrigerant service

Accessories:

Optional equipment, power windows, power locks, central locking, sunroof

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks/changes, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, fault code identification (where applicable for the era), symptom-based diagnosis

Repair Overhaul:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reassembly

Rebuilds:

Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds

Installation Replacement:

Instructions for replacing major components and accessories

Adjustments:

Valve adjustments, clutch adjustments, idle speed adjustments

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures for its era.

📊 Manual Specifications

Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval

Quality:

Likely scanned from original factory manuals, quality may vary but typically includes diagrams and schematics.

Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes And Variants:

Likely covers M20B25 (2.5L inline-6 for 325i/is), M20B27 (2.7L inline-6 for 325e/es), and potentially M40B18 (1.8L inline-4 for 318i) depending on market and specific manual edition.

Power And Torque Typical:

M20B25: Approx. 168-171 hp, 164-170 lb-ft torque. M20B27: Approx. 121-124 hp, 170-177 lb-ft torque. M40B18: Approx. 115 hp, 116 lb-ft torque. (Figures vary slightly by market and tuning.)

Injection Type:

Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection and ignition management (e.g., Motronic 1.1, 1.3).

Type:

Thermostatically controlled, pressurized coolant system.

Oil Type Capacity:

Typically API SG or higher, viscosity SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 for M20 engines. Capacity around 4.5-5.0 liters. Specifics in manual.

Type:

Distributorless ignition system (DIS) or distributor-based ignition, controlled by Motronic.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission (common on 325i/is/e/es).

Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single-plate dry clutch.

Manual 5 Speed:

Specific ratios vary; for Getrag 260: 1st: ~3.72, 2nd: ~2.04, 3rd: ~1.32, 4th: 1.00, 5th: ~0.81. Final drive ratios vary by model (e.g., 3.73, 3.91).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 gear oil, e.g., Castrol TAF-X 75W-90 or equivalent. Capacity around 1.5-1.7 liters.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent ATF. Capacity around 1.5 liters for torque converter service, more for full flush.

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length:

Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 in) for sedan/coupe.

Overall Width:

Approx. 1675 mm (66.0 in) for sedan/coupe.

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in).

Curb Weight Typical:

Approx. 1150-1350 kg (2535-2976 lbs) depending on body style and engine.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not specified in product info, but typically around 1700-1900 kg.

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 410 liters (14.5 cu ft) for sedan, varies by body style.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

As a 1990 vehicle, it predates modern comprehensive crash testing standards like NCAP. Likely performed reasonably well for its era but lacks advanced safety features.

Anti Lock Brakes:

Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on many models.

Airbags:

Driver airbag was optional and became more common in later years of the E30's production, but not standard on all 1990 models.

Seatbelts:

Front 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts, rear lap or 3-point belts depending on seating position and body style.

Rollover Protection:

Convertible models often featured reinforced A-pillars and, in some markets, optional roll-over protection systems.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette player, often with optional CD player in later years. Sound system quality varied by trim and options.

Assistance Systems:

Limited by modern standards. Key systems include optional ABS and power steering. No electronic stability control (DSC/ESP) or advanced driver aids.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity. Onboard computers (check control) were available on some higher-spec models.

Comfort Systems:

Optional features included electric windows, electric sunroof, heated seats, and cruise control.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil quality. Check manual for specific recommendations.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, but may vary. Refer to manual for correct type and interval.

Timing Belt Replacement:

M20 engines use a timing belt. Replacement interval typically around 40,000-60,000 miles (64,000-96,000 km) or 3-4 years. Critical to follow as failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. M40 engines also use a belt.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or similar ethylene glycol-based with corrosion inhibitors). Mix 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity approx. 7-8 liters.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Flush and replace every 2 years.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Pentosin CHF 11S or ATF (check manual for specific M20/M40 systems). Capacity approx. 1 liter.

Common Problems:

Cooling system component failures (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel injector seal leaks, fuel pump failure, seized blower motor, pedal box reinforcement cracks, rear shock mount reinforcement, window regulator issues, rust (especially in wheel wells, rocker panels, and strut towers).

Engine Specific Issues:

M20 engines can suffer from head gasket leaks, oil pan seal leaks, and timing belt tensioner failure. M40 engines are known for cam wear.

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

Mann-Filter W 940/1, Mahle OC 118, Bosch 0 451 104 055 (check specific engine variant).

Air Filter Part Number Example:

Mann-Filter C 23 353, Mahle LX 37, Bosch 1 457 433 700 (check specific engine variant).

Fuel Filter Part Number Example:

Bosch 0 450 905 006, Mann-Filter WK 37/2 (check specific engine variant and fuel system type).

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, sporty, and well-engineered vehicles. The E30 is a significant model in the evolution of the 3 Series, which has become BMW's best-selling and most iconic line.

E30 Development:

The E30 was a successor to the E21 and was produced from 1982 to 1994 (though the 1990 model is part of the primary E30 generation). It was critically acclaimed for its driving dynamics and was offered in various body styles and engine configurations, including the legendary E30 M3.

Production Years:

1982-1991 (primary generation, with some variants continuing production longer).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), with some production also occurring in South Africa and Austria.

Automotive Awards:

The E30 as a platform received numerous accolades for its design, engineering, and performance throughout its production run.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

The E30 platform was widely praised by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its handling and performance. Models like the M3 earned significant motorsport success and critical acclaim.

Reliability Perception:

Generally considered reliable with proper maintenance, though specific components of this era may require more attention than modern vehicles.

Certification Standards:

Compliant with safety and emissions standards of its time. Specific certifications vary by market (e.g., DOT in North America, EEC in Europe).