Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional workshops
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Volvo 240/740
Chassis Design:
Iconic E30 platform, known for driving dynamics and build quality
Engine Variant:
Fuel-injected inline-four, providing a balance of performance and efficiency
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to maintain and repair a classic BMW, preserving its value and performance
Engine Mechanical:
Complete disassembly, inspection, assembly, timing, valve adjustment
Engine Management:
EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection), ignition system, sensors, actuators, DME (Digital Motor Electronics) diagnosis
Transmission Manual:
Removal, installation, clutch, gearbox overhaul
Transmission Automatic:
Removal, installation, torque converter, fluid service
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, axle shafts
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment
Steering:
Steering rack, power steering system, steering column
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis, disc and drum brake service, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Bodywork:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, trim, corrosion prevention
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system service and repair
Interior:
Seat removal, dashboard disassembly, interior trim
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components
Diagnostics:
Fault code retrieval (OBD-I era, specific BMW codes), sensor testing, actuator testing
Rebuilding Procedures:
Engine and transmission overhaul guidelines
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners
Special Tool Requirements:
Identification of BMW-specific or equivalent tools needed for repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics for EFI and electrical systems
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
1596 cc (1.6 Liters)
Horsepower:
98 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
135 Nm (99 lb-ft) @ 4250 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (95 RON recommended)
Bore X Stroke:
81.0 mm x 77.6 mm
Oil Capacity:
4.25 Liters (4.5 US Quarts) with filter
Coolant Capacity:
7.0 Liters (7.4 US Quarts)
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Manual (Getrag 240)
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (e.g., BMW part # 8322 9 407 550)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW LT-3 (Dexron II equivalent) (e.g., BMW part # 8122 9 400 275)
Crash Test Era:
Tested under older, less stringent standards than modern vehicles
ABS:
Optional on some models, standard on later 1990-1991 E30s (Bosch 2-channel ABS)
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 2-point rear seatbelts
Headrests:
Front headrests standard
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Radio:
Factory cassette/AM/FM radio, often with 4-6 speakers
Display:
Basic digital clock, odometer, and trip meter
ABS:
Optional, as noted in safety section
Connectivity Features:
None (basic analog systems)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-10,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000-80,000 km (37,000-50,000 miles) or 5 years (critical for M40 engine)
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 5W-40 (check manual for climate suitability)
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue (Glysantin G48 equivalent), 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine M40:
Timing chain tensioner wear (on some M40 variants with chains, though M40 has a belt), oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket
Suspension Bushings:
Wear on control arm bushings, trailing arm bushings, and subframe bushings leading to vague handling and noise
Electrical:
Corrosion in wiring harnesses, failure of idle control valve, headlight switch issues
Rust:
Common areas include wheel arches, rocker panels, jacking points, and rear screen surround
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for building sporty, driver-focused sedans and coupes
E30 Introduction:
Introduced in 1982, the E30 generation redefined the 3-Series with improved styling, engineering, and performance
Facelift:
Late E30 models (post-1988) featured revised styling, including larger bumpers, updated grilles, and revised interior trim
Production Years:
1982-1994 (across all E30 variants)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany, South Africa, Thailand
