Positioning:
The E30 3-Series was BMW's compact executive sports sedan and coupe, renowned for its driving dynamics and build quality, representing a significant volume seller for the brand.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, and various Japanese luxury compacts of the era.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive layout, and responsive steering, establishing the benchmark for compact sporty sedans.
Build Quality:
Typically exhibited excellent German engineering and robust construction, contributing to its longevity.
Utility:
Provides comprehensive DIY repair and maintenance guidance for owners and independent workshops, reducing reliance on expensive dealership services.
Markets Covered:
Global (primarily European and North American specifications applicable)
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific publisher, but typically 500-800 pages for comprehensive coverage.
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital PDF (Instant Download)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (M10/M40), fuel system (carburetor/injection), cooling system, exhaust system, ignition system, engine management (ECU diagnostics).
Transmission:
Manual gearbox (Getrag 245/260), Automatic gearbox (ZF 4HP22), clutch system, driveline.
Chassis:
Front suspension (McPherson struts), rear suspension (semi-trailing arms), steering system (rack and pinion), braking system (front discs, rear drums/discs), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, basic comfort electronics.
Body And Interior:
Body construction, body panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, trim, heating and ventilation (HVAC).
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug servicing, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and replacements, brake pad/shoe replacement, tire rotation.
Repair:
Engine component replacement (e.g., head gasket, water pump, fuel injectors/carburetor), transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/master cylinder rebuild, starter/alternator replacement, cooling system leak repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common problems, diagnosing electrical faults, identifying engine performance issues, reading diagnostic codes (where applicable to early EFI systems).
Technical Data:
Torque specifications, alignment procedures, valve adjustments, timing belt/chain procedures (if applicable to M40), diagnostic procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, troubleshooting, repairs from minor component replacements to major system overhauls. Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, SOHC (M10) or DOHC (M40 later variants)
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766cc for M10, 1796cc for M40)
Horsepower M10:
Approximately 105 hp @ 5800 rpm (depending on market and tuning)
Torque M10:
Approximately 105 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (depending on market and tuning)
Horsepower M40:
Approximately 115 hp @ 5500 rpm (depending on market and tuning)
Torque M40:
Approximately 116 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (depending on market and tuning)
Fuel Delivery Early:
Carburetor (e.g., Pierburg 2E2 on some M10 models)
Fuel Delivery Later:
Bosch LE2-Jetronic or L-Jetronic (Early Injection) or Motronic (M40) fuel injection.
Fuel Requirement:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 91+ typically)
Type:
4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission (Getrag 245/260)
Type:
3-speed or 4-speed ZF automatic transmission (e.g., 3HP22, 4HP22)
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
Clutch:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated.
Body Styles:
2-door Sedan, 4-door Sedan, Convertible, Touring (Wagon - less common for 318i)
Length:
Approx. 4325-4415 mm (varies by body style and bumper type)
Width:
Approx. 1675-1700 mm
Height:
Approx. 1380-1415 mm
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1100-1300 kg (depending on body style and equipment)
Crash Safety:
As an 80s vehicle, official modern crash ratings are rare. However, the E30 was known for its robust chassis and safety cage design, considered good for its era.
Braking System:
Front ventilated disc brakes, Rear drum brakes (standard on many 318i) or disc brakes (on later/performance variants). Optional ABS was introduced later in the E30 lifecycle.
Restraints:
Standard 3-point seat belts front and rear. Optional driver's side airbag on very late models or specific markets. Crumple zones front and rear.
Audio System:
Basic factory AM/FM radio with cassette player. Aftermarket upgrades common.
ABS:
Optional on later models, particularly higher-spec variants. Not standard on most 318i models.
Cruise Control:
Optional feature on most models.
Connectivity Features:
None by modern standards; basic on-board computer available on some higher trims.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Check at 30,000 miles, replace as needed. Different types for M10 and M40.
Engine Oil:
e.g., SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 for M10 (check manual for specific API ratings); SAE 10W-40 or 5W-30 for M40. Capacity approx. 4.25 L.
Coolant:
BMW Blue/Green coolant concentrate mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Capacity approx. 6.5 L.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil, viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90. Capacity approx. 1.5 L.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent) ATF. Capacity approx. 2.2 L (dry fill).
Engine:
M10: Oil leaks, timing chain wear (if applicable), overheating. M40: Head gasket failures, timing belt tensioner issues, valve stem seal wear.
Suspension And Chassis:
Worn control arm bushings, worn rear trailing arm bushings (RTABs), strut mount degradation, rust in common areas (rockers, wheel wells, strut towers).
Electrical:
Corroded grounds, failing fuel pump relay (M20/M30, but applicable to general E30 electrical robustness), intermittent gauge failures, alternator brush wear.
Fuel System:
Clogged fuel injectors (EFI), worn out fuel pumps, diaphragm issues in carburetors.
Bmw Legacy:
Built on BMW's reputation for producing driver-focused, well-engineered vehicles with a strong sporting heritage.
E30 Introduction:
The E30 generation replaced the E21 and was produced from 1982 to 1991, serving as BMW's core compact executive offering. The 318i was a popular entry-level model within the range.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany, with some assembly in other BMW plants globally.
Status:
The E30, including the 318i, has gained significant collector status, particularly well-preserved examples and the more performance-oriented variants.
Automotive Press:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and build quality. Named to Car and Driver's Ten Best list multiple times during its production run.
Reliability:
Generally considered reliable when properly maintained, though specific component failures are well-documented and covered by the manual.
Oem Status:
Represents an OEM-level repair manual, providing factory-level procedures and specifications.
