🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Chassis Code:

E30

Product Name:

BMW 3 Series E30 318i, 325, 325e, 325es, 325i, 325is, 325i Convertible Service Repair Manual

Model Years Covered:

1984-1990

Engine Codes:

M10 (318i), M20 (325e, 325es, 325i, 325is)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW E30 generation represents a pivotal moment for BMW, transitioning the brand into a more modern era while retaining its core driving dynamics. It established the 3 Series as the benchmark for compact executive sports sedans and coupes, a position it has maintained for decades.

E30 Significance:

The E30 is often considered one of BMW's finest generations of the 3 Series, celebrated for its timeless design, robust engineering, and exceptional driving feedback. It set the standard for sporty compact luxury cars.

Competitors:

Competed directly with the Mercedes-Benz W201 (190E), Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, and various American sedans of the era. The E30's blend of sporty handling, build quality, and refined engine options often gave it an edge in enthusiast circles.

Vehicle Highlights:

Rear-wheel drive platform, balanced chassis, iconic 'kidney grille' design, durable inline-six engines (M20), responsive steering, high-quality interior materials, excellent driver engagement.

Value Proposition:

This comprehensive service manual is an indispensable tool for E30 owners and mechanics, providing the detailed information necessary to maintain, diagnose, and repair these classic vehicles, preserving their performance and longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Variants:

318i, 325, 325e, 325es, 325i, 325is, 325i Convertible

Estimated Page Count:

Over 800 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Mechanical Systems:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system, clutch, transmission (manual and automatic), driveshafts, differentials, suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front and rear disc/drum), wheels and tires.

Electrical Systems:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system, lighting system, instrument cluster, wipers and washers, power windows, central locking, heating and ventilation, basic comfort electronics, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics and wiring.

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, chassis lubrication, rust prevention, convertible top mechanisms (if applicable).

Body And Trim:

Exterior body panel removal and installation, interior trim components, door hardware, convertible top mechanism (if applicable), glass replacement, weatherstripping.

Heating Ventilation Ac:

Diagnosis, repair, and recharging procedures for the HVAC system, including blower motor, heater core, evaporator, condenser, and refrigerant handling.

Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad/shoe inspection and replacement, tire rotation, battery maintenance.

Repair And Rebuild:

Engine disassembly and reassembly, cylinder head service, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, transmission overhaul, differential overhaul, brake caliper and master cylinder replacement, suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, control arms), steering rack replacement, radiator and water pump replacement.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems, including symptom-based troubleshooting charts.

Engine Management:

Diagnosis and repair of the engine control unit (ECU), sensors (e.g., airflow meter, throttle position sensor, coolant temperature sensor), actuators, and fuel injection system components.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, troubleshooting guides for common electrical faults, fuse box layouts, relay functions, and component testing procedures.

Body Repair:

Procedures for dent repair, panel alignment, rust treatment, and replacement of body components.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid services to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications, component clearances, and diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Searchable PDF, allowing for quick navigation via keywords. Optimized for digital viewing on computers, tablets, and smartphones.

Searchability:

Fully searchable text allows users to quickly find specific procedures, parts, or specifications by entering keywords.

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory manuals, ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and photographs.

Diagram Clarity:

Includes clear, detailed line drawings, exploded views, and photographic illustrations essential for component identification and assembly/disassembly guidance.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

318I Engine:

M10B18 inline-4, SOHC, 1.8 liters (1766 cc), Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection. Power output typically 101-105 hp.

325E Engine:

M20B27 'Eta' inline-6, SOHC, 2.7 liters (2693 cc), Bosch Motronic fuel injection. Tuned for torque and fuel economy. Power output typically 121-124 hp.

325I 325Is Engine:

M20B25 inline-6, SOHC, 2.5 liters (2494 cc), Bosch Motronic fuel injection. Higher performance variant. Power output typically 168-171 hp.

Torque Figures:

318i: ~101-103 lb-ft, 325e: ~170 lb-ft, 325i/325is: ~164-167 lb-ft.

Compression Ratio:

M10B18: 8.8:1; M20B27: 8.3:1; M20B25: 8.5:1.

Injection Type:

Bosch L-Jetronic (318i) or Bosch Motronic (325 models) electronic fuel injection systems.

Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with belt-driven fan or viscous fan coupling.

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5-5.5 liters (4.7-5.8 US quarts) depending on engine variant and filter.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission Options:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual (common on 325i/is), Getrag 245 4-speed or 5-speed manual (common on 318i and 325e).

Automatic Transmission Options:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission.

Rear Axle Differential:

Open differential standard. Limited-slip differential (LSD) was an optional upgrade, particularly desirable on 325is models.

Gear Ratios:

Varies by transmission and model. Manual transmissions typically feature close ratios for sporty driving. Detailed ratios are provided within the manual.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Typically Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for exact spec). Capacity approx. 1.5-2.0 liters.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent. Capacity approx. 1.2-1.5 liters (drain/fill).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 inches) for sedans/coupes/convertibles.

Length:

Approx. 4340-4400 mm (170.9-173.2 inches) depending on body style.

Width:

Approx. 1670-1680 mm (65.7-66.1 inches).

Height:

Approx. 1380-1410 mm (54.3-55.5 inches).

Wheelbase Convertible:

Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 inches), same as sedan/coupe.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1200-1350 kg (2645-2976 lbs) depending on model and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1700-1800 kg.

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 400-450 liters (14.1-15.9 cu ft) for sedans.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test History:

No standardized crash test ratings from agencies like NHTSA/IIHS exist for all early E30 models in the same way as modern vehicles. However, the E30 chassis was known for its robust construction and safe driving dynamics for its era.

Braking System:

Four-wheel disc brakes on most 325i/is models. Front discs with rear drums on some 318i and 325e variants. Optional ABS was available on later models.

Suspension Design:

Independent front suspension (MacPherson struts), semi-trailing arm independent rear suspension. Contributed to excellent handling and stability.

Steering System:

Recirculating ball steering system on early models, rack and pinion on later models. Power steering was optional and widely specified.

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts for front and rear occupants.

Body Structure:

Reinforced passenger cell with crumple zones front and rear.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted radio/cassette players, often from Blaupunkt or Becker. Some models featured upgraded speaker systems. Aftermarket head unit upgrades are common.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature, typically found on higher-spec models like the 325is, offering improved braking control.

Early Features:

Limited by era: power windows, power mirrors, central locking, cruise control (optional), and heated seats (optional) were the primary comfort and convenience features.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal). Check manual for specific recommendations.

Tune Up Items:

Spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter, and distributor cap/rotor (if applicable) recommended every 20,000-30,000 miles.

Timing Belt:

M10 engine: Timing chain (low maintenance). M20 engines: Timing belt, typically replaced every 40,000-60,000 miles due to potential failure and resulting engine damage.

Coolant:

BMW Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent blue ethylene glycol-based coolant. Mixture ratio typically 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity approx. 7-9 liters.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Must be flushed and replaced every 2 years due to hygroscopic nature.

Power Steering Fluid:

CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid (check manual, some may use ATF). Check level regularly.

Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:

BMW Manual Transmission Fluid G3 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF 2).

Common Wear Items:

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, coolant hoses, radiator, water pump, thermostat, clutch components, rear wheel bearings, front control arm bushings, ball joints, strut mounts, door seals, and window seals.

Electrical Gremlins:

Aging wiring harness insulation, faulty grounds, corrosion in connectors, and failing dashboard warning lights can be common.

Engine Specific:

M20 engines can suffer from head gasket issues if overheated, and timing belt failure is catastrophic. M10 engines are generally robust but can have oil leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, performance-oriented vehicles. The 3 Series lineage, which began with the E21, was significantly cemented and popularized by the E30.

E30 Development:

The E30 was launched in 1982 (as a 1983 model) and replaced the E21. It was designed with a focus on improved aerodynamics, handling, and interior space. The E30 range expanded to include coupe, sedan, convertible, and touring (wagon) body styles. Performance variants like the M3 were also developed from the E30 platform.

Production Years:

1982-1991 (though this manual covers 1984-1990 models).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily produced in Germany (Munich, Dingolfing) and also South Africa.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

The E30 3 Series received numerous accolades from automotive publications during its production run for its exceptional driving dynamics, build quality, and performance. It was often lauded as a benchmark in its class.

Enthusiast Following:

The E30 enjoys a strong and dedicated enthusiast following, with many models, especially the 325i, 325is, and M3 variants, appreciating in value due to their classic status and engaging driving experience.