Segment:
Compact Executive Sports Sedan/Coupe
Reputation:
Renowned for its sporty handling, driver-focused cockpit, and build quality, establishing BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' reputation.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra XR4i, Volvo 240.
Driving Dynamics:
Excellent balance, precise steering, responsive suspension, rear-wheel drive platform.
Engine Characteristics:
Smooth and potent M20 inline-six engine, known for its character and linear power delivery.
Target Audience:
BMW enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, independent repair shops specializing in classic European vehicles.
Model Years Covered:
1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, maintenance, timing belt replacement, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (including Bosch LE-Jetronic/Motronic injection), ignition system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Getrag 260), Automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22), clutch system, driveshafts, differential, axle shafts.
Chassis:
Suspension (front McPherson strut, rear semi-trailing arm), steering system (power steering), brakes (front vented discs, rear discs, ABS system details for later models), wheel bearings, alignment specifications.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter system, charging system (alternator, battery), lighting system, instruments and controls, body electronics, fuses and relays, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics.
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, bumpers, paint and corrosion protection.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, belt replacement, lubrication points.
Repair:
Engine rebuild, head gasket replacement, fuel injector service, transmission rebuild, brake caliper overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common engine, transmission, brake, and electrical faults; specific symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed torque specifications, diagnostic charts, and electrical schematics.
Engine Name:
M20B27 (de-stroked variant, often referred to as the 'eta' engine, though the 325i typically used the higher-revving variant)
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC, 12-valve
Displacement:
2.5 liters (2494 cc)
Horsepower Hp:
168 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx. for Euro-spec/later US models)
Torque Lb Ft:
164 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (approx. for Euro-spec/later US models)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic (later models) or Bosch LE-Jetronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition Type:
Distributor-based electronic ignition
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Coolant (ethylene glycol based) or equivalent
Oil Type:
SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (refer to specific manual for optimal viscosity based on climate)
Oil Capacity Quarts:
6.2 quarts (with filter)
Transmission Type:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission
Transmission Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Gear Ratios Manual:
Typically 3.72, 2.02, 1.32, 1.00, 0.85 (subject to specific model year)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
Not rated under modern standards (vehicle predates current testing methodologies)
ABS:
Optional (standard on later models, typically 1987+)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts
Crumple Zones:
Designed with front and rear crumple zones for energy absorption
Radio:
Factory AM/FM cassette player (often Blaupunkt or Grundig), optional CD player on later models.
Speakers:
Typically 4 or 6 speakers
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for improved braking control.
Connectivity Features:
Basic analogue systems, no modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity.
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 12 months
Timing Belt Replacement Miles:
Every 40,000 - 60,000 miles or 4-5 years (critical replacement item for M20)
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 miles
Brake Fluid Flush Miles:
Every 2 years
Coolant Capacity Liters:
9.5 liters
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Common:
Head gasket failures, coolant leaks (especially around thermostat housing and water pump), fuel distributor leaks (LE-Jetronic), idle control valve issues, occasional injector seal leaks.
Suspension Common:
Worn control arm bushings, worn ball joints, rear trailing arm bushings (RTABs), worn shock absorbers.
Electrical Common:
Wiring harness degradation (especially near heat sources), faulty door lock actuators, instrument cluster problems, AFM (Air Flow Meter) sensor issues.
Rust:
Susceptible to rust in common E30 areas: jacking points, rocker panels, fender lips, rear wheel arches, battery tray, sunroof drain channels.
Brand Origin:
Germany, founded in 1916
Brand Philosophy:
Engineering excellence, driver engagement, premium quality
E30 Introduction:
Introduced in 1982 as the successor to the E21 3 Series. The 325i model became prominent in 1987 for the US market.
E30 Facelift:
Received a significant facelift in 1987, introducing revised bumpers (large 'diving boards'), updated interior, and revised M20 engine tuning for some models.
Production Period:
1982-1994 (E30 generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany, South Africa, USA (CKD kits)
Car And Driver Ten Best:
The E30 generation, including the 325i, was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' lists during its production run, acknowledging its superior driving dynamics and value.
Sales Success:
Highly successful model for BMW, contributing significantly to the brand's growth and establishing its performance credentials in the compact executive segment.
