Market Segment:
Compact executive sports sedan/coupe/convertible
Era Designation:
Iconic '80s/'90s performance car, renowned for driving dynamics and build quality.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra XR4i, Opel Monza
Driving Dynamics:
Legendary handling, rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, responsive steering
Build Quality:
Typical BMW robust construction, high-quality materials
Design:
Timeless Giugiaro-influenced styling, clean lines, driver-focused interior
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals (M10, M20 variants), fuel injection (L-Jetronic, Motronic), ignition, cooling, exhaust, lubrication, emissions control
Transmission Systems:
Manual and automatic transmissions (Getrag 260, ZF 4HP22), clutch, driveline, differentials
Suspension Steering:
Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, springs, dampers, bushings, steering rack, power steering system
Brake Systems:
Front vented discs, rear discs, ABS (optional), brake hydraulics, parking brake
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instruments, sensors, ECUs (DME/Motronic), comfort electronics
Bodywork Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, chassis structure, rust repair, door mechanisms, glass, trim, convertible top mechanisms
HVAC Climate Control:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (if equipped), refrigerant system
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt tensioning, tire rotation
Engine Repair:
Head gasket replacement, valve adjustments, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, timing belt/chain service (for M20)
Transmission Repair:
Clutch replacement, transmission rebuilds (manual and automatic), torque converter service
Suspension Steering Repair:
Shock absorber and strut replacement, bushing replacement, steering rack rebuild, power steering pump service
Brake Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, hydraulic line replacement, ABS bleeding
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults, component testing, wiring harness repair, ECU diagnosis
Bodywork Restoration:
Panel alignment, dent repair, rust treatment and panel replacement, convertible top servicing
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostics for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based problem solving
Depth Of Coverage:
Highly detailed, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Includes specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for applicable ECUs, oscilloscope readings, and component testing specifications.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive list of torque values for all critical fasteners, essential for proper assembly and safety.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, high-resolution wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, color-coded and clearly labeled.
Special Tools:
Lists and descriptions of required special tools and equipment for specific repair procedures.
Engine Codes:
M10 (4-cylinder), M20 (6-cylinder)
318I Engine Specs:
1.8L M10 Inline-4, Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection, ~104 hp
325E Engine Specs:
2.7L M20B27 'Eta' Inline-6, Bosch Motronic, focus on torque and economy, ~121-125 hp
325I 325Is Engine Specs:
2.5L M20B25 Inline-6, Bosch Motronic, ~168-171 hp
Horsepower Range:
104 hp (318i) to 171 hp (325i/is)
Torque Range:
140 Nm (318i) to 225 Nm (325i/is)
Injection Systems:
Bosch L-Jetronic (318i), Bosch Motronic ML4.1/ML4.3/ML6.1 (325e/i/is)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended)
Fuel Pump Type:
Electric, in-tank
318I Transmission Standard:
4-speed Manual
325E Transmission Standard:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 260)
325I 325Is Transmission Standard:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 260)
318I Transmission Optional:
3-speed Automatic
325E Transmission Optional:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
325I 325Is Transmission Optional:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate (manual)
Differential Type:
Open differential standard; Limited Slip Differential (LSD) optional on 325i/is
Transmission Fluid Spec:
MTF-LT-2 (Manual), ATF Dexron II/III (Automatic) - consult manual for specific part numbers and exact specs
Crash Test History:
While NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings for this specific era are not as standardized as today, the E30 was considered a safe vehicle for its time with a robust unibody structure.
ABS:
Optional on most models, standard on some later 'i' models.
Traction Control:
Not typically available on E30 models
Airbags:
Driver airbag became optional/standard later in the production run; Passenger airbag not available.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts, lap belts for rear passengers
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and windshield frame; roll bar sometimes featured on M3 and aftermarket conversions.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific intervals.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 20,000 - 30,000 miles (32,000 - 48,000 km) depending on plug type (standard vs. platinum).
Timing Belt Replacement:
M20 engines: No timing belt, uses a timing chain (designed for longevity, but inspection is recommended). M10 engines have a timing chain. Refer to manual for inspection intervals.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 API SG/SH (check manual for exact viscosity and API rating based on climate)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW Blue Coolant or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II/III or Pentosin CHF 11S (check specific model and year)
Common Wear Items:
Bushings (control arm, sway bar), fuel pump, fuel injectors, starter motor, coolant hoses, radiator, heater core, door seal degradation, sunroof drain blockage.
Engine Specific Issues:
M20: timing belt tensioner failure (on earlier models without updated tensioner), head gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks. M10: Oil leaks from front crank seal.
Electrical Issues:
Fuse box corrosion, OBC (On-Board Computer) pixelation, intermittent sensor failures, fuel pump relay failure.
Body Issues:
Rust (wheel wells, rocker panels, battery tray, around windows), sagging headliner, convertible top hydraulics/seals.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' was solidified with the E30 generation.
E30 Introduction:
Introduced in 1982, replacing the E21 3 Series. The E30 was a significant step forward in design, engineering, and performance.
Body Styles:
Available as 2-door sedan, 4-door sedan, convertible, and the iconic M3 (not covered by this manual).
Production Years:
1982-1994 (globally, with North American market focus 1984-1991)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (primarily), South Africa, Thailand, Mexico