🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Year:

1990

Chassis Code:

E30

Engine Codes Covered:

M10, M20, M40 (specific codes vary by market/trim)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact executive car, premium sporty sedan/coupe/convertible.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Saab 900, Volvo 240/740.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, precise steering, and engaging driving experience.

Build Quality:

Typical BMW build quality, known for durability and a solid feel.

Manual Utility:

Essential resource for owners and independent repair shops seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 1990 BMW 3 Series E30 to factory standards.

📋 Manual Details

Areas Covered:

Comprehensive mechanical and electrical systems, bodywork, and diagnostics for the 1990 BMW 3 Series (E30).

Page Count:

Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory-level manuals of this era).

Manual Type:

Full Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, but could be scanned physical)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine overhaul (M10, M20, M40), fuel injection systems (Bosch Motronic), ignition systems, cooling system, exhaust system, clutch, manual and automatic transmissions.

Chassis:

Front and rear suspension, steering system, braking system (including ABS if equipped), wheel bearings, driveshafts.

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, wipers, power windows, central locking, climate control (HVAC), diagnostic connectors.

Bodywork:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, body sealant and rust prevention.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, clutch fluid changes, differential fluid changes, lubrication points.

Repair Rebuild:

Engine cylinder head removal/installation, piston ring replacement, crankshaft main bearing service, transmission rebuild, differential overhaul, brake caliper overhaul, steering rack repair.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common electrical and mechanical faults, diagnostic codes (if applicable), sensor testing, component testing procedures.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of special tools required for specific repair procedures (e.g., valve spring compressors, bearing pullers, flywheel locking tools).

Depth:

Factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics, covering full engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and in-depth electrical troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Searchable text is highly desirable for digital versions).

Print Quality Expectation:

High resolution for clear diagrams and text; if scanned, ensure clarity and legibility of all pages.

Binding:

N/A (for digital), for physical: Spiral-bound or saddle-stitched for lay-flat usability.

Paper Type Expectation:

N/A (for digital), for physical: Durable, matte finish paper suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family E30:

M10 (4-cylinder OHC), M20 (6-cylinder OHC), M40 (4-cylinder OHC - later models).

Engine 318I:

M10B18 (1.8L) or M40B18 (1.8L) - approx. 103-113 hp.

Engine 320I:

M20B20 (2.0L) - approx. 127-130 hp.

Engine 325I:

M20B25 (2.5L) - approx. 168-171 hp.

Horsepower Range:

103 hp (318i) to 171 hp (325i).

Torque Range:

Approx. 110 lb-ft (318i) to 164 lb-ft (325i).

Injection Type:

Bosch Motronic fuel injection (e.g., Motronic ML4.1, ML-E).

Block Material:

Cast Iron (M10, M20), Aluminum (later M40).

Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy.

Coolant Type Specification:

BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.

Oil Type Specification:

API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate).

Timing Belt Chain:

M10 & M40: Timing Belt; M20: Timing Belt.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission.

Transmission Type Optional:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission.

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-80 gear oil (e.g., Pentosin).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or III ATF (check manual for exact specification).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2565 mm (101.0 in).

Length:

Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 in) for sedan.

Width:

Approx. 1675 mm (66.0 in).

Height:

Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in) for sedan.

Curb Weight:

Varies by model, approx. 1150 kg - 1350 kg (2535 lbs - 2976 lbs).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Consult specific model data, typically around 1600-1800 kg.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm.

Standard Tire Sizes:

Commonly 195/65R14, 205/55R14, 205/50VR15 (depending on trim and wheel option).

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test History:

Not officially rated by NHTSA/Euro NCAP by modern standards. Known for robust build, but lacks airbags and advanced safety structures of later eras.

ABS:

Optional on most models, standard on some higher trims like 325i Convertible and M3 (though M3 is E36 for '90 in some markets).

Airbags:

Driver airbag was optional/rarely fitted in 1990 for E30 in many markets; passenger airbags were not available.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear.

Body Construction:

Unitized body construction with integrated safety cage.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted AM/FM cassette radio, often with optional CD player. Basic analog controls.

Instrument Cluster:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, engine temperature. Warning lights for oil pressure, battery, brakes, etc.

Cruise Control:

Optional on some models.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control (HVAC) with physical controls.

Connectivity Features:

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

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used.

Timing Belt Replacement:

M10/M40: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years. M20: Every 40,000-50,000 miles (64,000-80,000 km) or 3-4 years. Critical to follow schedule due to interference design.

Spark Plugs:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 6-7 liters (depending on engine size).

Engine Oil Capacity:

M10: ~4.5L, M20: ~5.5L, M40: ~4.0L (with filter).

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11 S or equivalent hydraulic fluid.

Common Problems E30:

Rust (especially rear wheel arches, rocker panels, jacking points), fuel distributor diaphragm failure (M10/M20 K-Jetronic), perished cooling hoses and plastic parts, oil leaks (valve cover, oil pan), coolant expansion tank cracks, differential mounts, worn subframe bushings, worn sway bar bushings, window regulator failures, blower motor resistor failure.

Rust Prevention:

Regular undercarriage washing and inspection, seam sealing, cavity waxing.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw History:

BMW has a long history of producing performance-oriented, driver-focused vehicles with a strong emphasis on engineering and build quality.

E30 Generation:

The E30 generation (1982-1994) is considered one of BMW's most iconic and successful models, credited with cementing BMW's reputation in the compact executive segment. It introduced coupe, convertible, touring (wagon), and iconic M3 variants.

Production Years E30:

1982-1994 (with significant updates and facelifts throughout its run).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary production in Munich, Germany. Also produced in South Africa, Mexico (for North American market), and Thailand.

E30 Global Sales:

Over 2.3 million units sold worldwide.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journal Awards:

Frequently cited by automotive publications as a benchmark for handling and driver engagement in its era. Often appeared on 'best of' lists for affordable sports sedans.

Classic Car Status:

Highly regarded by enthusiasts and considered a modern classic, with strong resale value and a dedicated following.