Positioning:
The E30 3 Series was BMW's core sports sedan and coupe offering in the 1980s, renowned for its driving dynamics, build quality, and sporty appeal. It solidified BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine'.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, and certain models from Ford (Sierra XR4i) and Opel/Vauxhall (Senator/Monza).
Driving Dynamics:
Exceptional handling, balanced chassis, responsive steering, and robust rear-wheel-drive platform.
Design:
Iconic Hofmeister kink, clean lines, driver-focused interior, and a range of body styles including sedan, coupe, convertible, and touring (wagon).
Covered Years:
1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990
Covered Models:
BMW 3 Series E30 (318i, 325, 325e, 325es, 325i, 325is, 325i Convertible)
Estimated Page Count:
Approx. 2000+ pages (indicative for a complete workshop manual of this era and scope)
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, assume searchable)
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, overhaul for M10 (318i) and M20 (325e/i/is/es) engines, including timing, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), ignition systems, cooling, lubrication.
Transmission:
Repair and overhaul for Getrag 260 manual transmissions (all variants) and ZF 4HP22 automatic transmissions, including clutch, driveshafts, differential, and axle repairs.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS system (if equipped), parking brake, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, caliper and rotor replacement, bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bars), alignment specifications, shock absorber replacement.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column, alignment.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layout, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument cluster, power windows, central locking, heating and ventilation controls.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, convertible top mechanisms (for convertible models), interior trim, bumper repair.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks: oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake pad and rotor replacement, belt checks and replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic codes (OBD I era), symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major vehicle systems.
Rebuilds:
Engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including specifications for machining and assembly.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized BMW tools required for various repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Format:
PDF (typically high-resolution scans or digital creation)
Searchability:
Optimized for text search (OCR'd if scanned)
Quality:
Clear text and diagrams, suitable for printing individual pages or sections.
Binding:
Not applicable (Digital format)
Paper:
Not applicable (Digital format)
318I Engine:
M10B18, 1.8L inline-4, SOHC, Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection.
318I Power:
Approx. 102-105 hp @ 5500-5800 rpm
318I Torque:
Approx. 107-110 lb-ft @ 3250-3500 rpm
325E Engine:
M20B27 'Eta' (Economy), 2.7L inline-6, SOHC, Bosch Motronic fuel injection. Designed for torque and fuel efficiency.
325E Power:
Approx. 121-125 hp @ 4800-5000 rpm
325E Torque:
Approx. 170 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
325I Engine:
M20B25, 2.5L inline-6, SOHC, Bosch Motronic fuel injection. Sportier tune than 325e.
325I Power:
Approx. 168-171 hp @ 5600-6000 rpm
325I Torque:
Approx. 164-167 lb-ft @ 4300-4750 rpm
Injection Type:
Bosch L-Jetronic (318i), Bosch Motronic (325 series)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating requirements vary by market and engine tune)
Compression Ratio 318I:
8.5:1
Compression Ratio 325E:
9.4:1
Compression Ratio 325I:
8.8:1
Manual Option:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission (standard on most performance variants)
Automatic Option:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission (optional)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate clutch (manual transmission)
Rear Axle:
Limited-slip differential (LSD) was a common option, especially on 'is' and 'es' models.
Manual Gear Ratios:
Varies by specific model and year; typically close-ratio for 325i/is, economy-biased for 325e.
Length:
Approx. 4340-4360 mm (170.9-171.7 in) for Sedan/Coupe/Convertible.
Width:
Approx. 1675-1680 mm (65.9-66.1 in).
Height:
Approx. 1380-1415 mm (54.3-55.7 in).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in).
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1180-1350 kg (2600-2976 lbs) depending on model and equipment.
Crash Test Results:
While official US NHTSA/IIHS ratings for the E30 era are scarce, the E30 was generally considered robust for its time. Later BMWs received higher ratings, but the E30's structure was a significant advancement for BMW.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available as an option on most models, particularly the 325i/is.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Manual may specify BMW LL-01 or equivalent oils for newer formulations.
Timing Belt:
M10 (318i) uses a timing chain. M20 engines (325 series) use a timing belt, typically replaced every 30,000-60,000 miles (50,000-100,000 km) or 3-5 years. Critical replacement interval to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (50,000 km).
Engine Oil 318I:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended. For modern oils, SAE 5W-40 synthetic is a good option.
Engine Oil 325:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended. For modern oils, SAE 5W-40 synthetic is a good option.
Coolant:
BMW Blue antifreeze (G48 equivalent) or a quality ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil, e.g., Castrol EPX 80W-90 or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent specification like ATF-M1375.4 for the ZF 4HP22).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Problems:
Cooling system (radiator, water pump, hoses), fuel pump, fuel injectors, idle control valve, heater control valve, rear wheel bearing seal leaks, front control arm bushings, differential seal leaks.
E30 Specific Quirks:
E30s are known for their robust construction but can suffer from rust, especially on the battery tray, rocker panels, and rear valence. Older fuel lines and rubber components can degrade.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW, established in 1916, built a reputation for engineering excellence, performance vehicles, and luxury sedans. The 3 Series lineage began with the E21 in 1975.
E30 Introduction:
The E30 was introduced in 1982 as the successor to the E21. It marked a significant step forward in design, engineering, and safety for BMW's compact executive car.
E30 Variants:
Evolved from initial 316, 318, 320, 323 models to the 318i, 325e, 325i, and iconic M3. Convertible and Touring (wagon) versions were introduced later in the E30's lifecycle.
Production Years:
1982-1994 (globally, with staggered introductions of specific models and body styles).
Production Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing and Munich, Germany. CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits were also assembled in various international locations.
