🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Chassis Code:

E30

Model Year:

1989

Engine Codes Covered:

M10 (4-cyl), M20 (6-cyl), M40 (4-cyl), M42 (4-cyl DOHC - late 1989/1990 models)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The E30 3 Series established BMW's reputation for sport sedans and coupes in the premium compact segment, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and driver engagement.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra, Opel Rekord

Key Features:

Iconic design, rear-wheel drive platform, robust engineering, driver-focused interior, various body styles (sedan, coupe, convertible, touring)

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Full Service, Repair, Workshop, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Electrical Schematics, Bodywork, Maintenance

Specific Models Covered:

All E30 body styles including Sedan (E30/2), Coupe (E30/2), Convertible (E30/2C), Touring (E30/3 - less common in some markets)

Page Count:

Extensive (Estimated 800-1200 pages based on typical workshop manuals for this era and complexity)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF) or Printed

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanicals, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic, Motronic), ignition systems, cooling, lubrication, exhaust

Transmission:

Manual (Getrag 260, 240), Automatic (ZF 4HP22), clutch systems, driveshafts, differential

Brakes:

Hydraulic systems, ABS (if equipped), disc/drum brake overhaul, parking brake

Suspension Steering:

Front/rear suspension, steering gearbox/rack, power steering system

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, ECU diagnostics, lighting, charging system, starter, instrumentation, comfort electronics

Bodywork:

Body panel removal/installation, alignment, interior trim, glass, seals, convertible top mechanisms

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based problem solving, common fault identification

Repair:

Component removal, disassembly, inspection, reassembly, and installation for all major systems

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD) procedures (limited for early models), component testing, sensor readings

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed procedures for cylinder head removal/overhaul, piston/connecting rod installation, crankshaft bearing replacement, timing chain/belt replacement, oil pump overhaul.

Fuel System Diagnostics:

Testing fuel pressure, injector pulse width, airflow meter operation, cold start injector function.

Ignition System Tuning:

Setting ignition timing, checking spark plug condition, testing coil and distributor (if applicable).

Transmission Overhaul:

Complete disassembly and reassembly of manual and automatic transmissions, including clutch component replacement and valve body servicing (automatic).

Brake System Repair:

Calibrating ABS systems, bleeding brakes, replacing master cylinder, power booster, brake lines, pads, and rotors.

Electrical Schematic Interpretation:

Comprehensive color wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, component location diagrams.

Suspension Alignment:

Detailed specifications for wheel alignment (caster, camber, toe) and suspension component torque values.

Body Panel Replacement:

Procedures for replacing fenders, doors, hoods, trunk lids, and structural body components.

Convertible Top Servicing:

Maintenance and repair of the hydraulic or manual convertible top mechanisms, including seals and linkages.

Depth:

Comprehensive: From basic fluid level checks to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical system diagnostics

Diagnostic Tools:

Procedures for using multimeters, oscilloscopes, fuel pressure gauges, and factory diagnostic connectors (if applicable).

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Searchable text, high-resolution diagrams)

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory manuals, clear diagrams and text

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF) or Printed (Comb-bound for lay-flat usability in a workshop)

Paper Type:

Durable, coated paper for printed versions (mimicking original manual stock)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variants 1989:

318i (M10B18/M40B18), 325i (M20B25), 325i convertible (M20B25), M3 (S14B23 - specific models)

318I Power Hp:

113 hp (M10), 115 hp (M40)

325I Power Hp:

168 hp (M20B25)

M3 Power Hp:

192 hp (S14B23)

Fuel Injection Types:

Bosch L-Jetronic, Bosch Motronic ML-4.1/ML-5.3

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended)

M10 Details:

SOHC, 4-cylinder, 8-valve, known for robustness and torque.

M20 Details:

SOHC, 6-cylinder, 12-valve, smooth power delivery, excellent for touring.

M40 Details:

SOHC, 4-cylinder, 8-valve, overhead cam, designed for fuel efficiency.

S14 Details:

DOHC, 4-cylinder, 16-valve, motorsport-derived engine for the M3, high-revving and powerful.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual (Getrag 260 for 6-cyl, Getrag 240 for 4-cyl)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)

Differential Type:

Open differential, optional Limited-Slip Differential (LSD)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2624 mm (103.3 in)

Length:

Sedan: 4375 mm (172.2 in), Coupe: 4330 mm (170.5 in), Convertible: 4330 mm (170.5 in)

Width:

Sedan/Coupe: 1678 mm (66.1 in), Convertible: 1678 mm (66.1 in)

Height:

Sedan: 1380 mm (54.3 in), Coupe: 1370 mm (53.9 in), Convertible: 1365 mm (53.7 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1200-1400 kg (2650-3090 lbs) depending on model and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1800-2000 kg (3970-4410 lbs)

Towing Capacity:

Not typically specified or recommended for towing with passenger car models

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Euro NCAP/IIHS ratings from this era are less standardized; known for solid construction.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes, optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

Passive Safety Features:

Reinforced chassis, impact-absorbing steering column, front seatbelt pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic analog radio, cassette player (optional premium sound system available)

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS (optional), power steering, cruise control (optional)

Connectivity:

N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 12 months

Major Service Intervals:

Timing belt (M10/M40/M42) every 50,000 miles (80,000 km), coolant every 2 years, spark plugs every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)

Valve Adjustment Interval:

M10: every 20,000 miles; M20: hydraulic lifters, no routine adjustment; M40: every 20,000 miles; S14: every 15,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40, 10W-40, or 5W-30 depending on climate (refer to manual for exact specs)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent G48 type (Ethylene Glycol based)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (specified by BMW)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 Gear Oil (SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Dexron II or III (ZF specified)

Common Issues:

Cooling system leaks (hoses, water pump), fuel distributor issues (M10/M20), idle control valve problems, seized heater control valves, worn subframe bushings, differential seal leaks, ABS sensor failures

Oil Filter 325I:

BMW Part # 11 42 1 730 916 (or equivalent Mann, Mahle)

Spark Plugs 325I:

Bosch WR8DC+ or W8DC

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW, known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', built its reputation on performance-oriented vehicles with advanced engineering.

E30 Production Years:

1982-1994

E30 Updates 1989:

1989 saw the introduction of the M40 engine to some 318i models and potentially the M42 for late-year production, alongside minor cosmetic updates and revisions.

E30 M3 Significance:

The E30 M3, while a specific variant, significantly boosted the E30's performance image and is a highly sought-after model.

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), South Africa, Thailand, Mexico, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

Consistently ranked as one of the best enthusiast cars of its era by automotive publications like Car and Driver, MotorTrend.