🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series E30

Model Variants Covered:

Touring (Wagon), Convertible

Production Years Covered:

1983-1991

Chassis Code:

E30

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW E30 platform represented BMW's entry-level luxury sport sedan and coupe market in the 1980s, emphasizing driving dynamics and build quality. The Touring and Convertible variants added versatility and open-air driving pleasure.

Competitors:

Competed with cars like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, and Volvo 240 series.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive layout, and engaging driving experience. Excellent weight distribution.

Build Quality:

Solid construction and premium materials were hallmarks of BMW's engineering during this era.

Design:

Iconic Bavarian design language, characterized by clean lines and a driver-focused cockpit.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Workshop Service and Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Overhaul

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Professional Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

All engine types (M10, M20, M40, M42, M44, S14) - disassembly, inspection, assembly, specifications

Fuel System:

Fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic, Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, diagnosis

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition, coil, distributor (where applicable), spark plugs, timing

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter (where applicable), muffler, pipes, heat shields

Transmission Manual:

Gearbox (Getrag 240, 250, 260), clutch, shift linkage, overhaul, fluid specifications

Transmission Automatic:

Transmission types (e.g., ZF 4HP22), torque converter, hydraulic control, overhaul, fluid specifications

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, axles, limited-slip differential (LSD) options

Suspension Front:

MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, springs, shock absorbers, alignment specifications

Suspension Rear:

Semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications

Steering System:

Steering rack, power steering pump, fluid, tie rods, steering column, alignment

Brake System:

Disc brakes (front and rear), calipers, pads, rotors, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS (where applicable), fluid type and bleeding procedures

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams for all circuits, battery, alternator, starter motor, fuses, relays, lighting

Engine Management System:

ECU diagnostics, sensor data, fault codes, DME (Digital Motor Electronics)

Body Exterior:

Body panel removal and installation, trim, bumpers, doors, hood, trunk, convertible top mechanism

Body Interior:

Dashboard, seats, door panels, headliner, carpet, trim components

HVAC System:

Heater core, A/C system components, blower motor, controls, refrigerant type

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plugs, belts, hoses

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based diagnosis

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation

Rebuild Procedures:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild instructions

Adjustment Procedures:

Valve adjustments, ignition timing, idle speed, clutch adjustment

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Detailed wiring diagrams, component testing, short/open circuit location

Convertible Top Service:

Hydraulic or manual convertible top operation, repair, and adjustment

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.

Diagrams:

Includes detailed exploded view diagrams and step-by-step illustrations.

Specifications:

Provides critical torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, and diagnostic parameters.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Resolution:

High resolution, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Color Content:

May include color diagrams or illustrations where beneficial for clarity.

Binding:

N/A (Downloadable Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Downloadable Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

M10 (4-cylinder SOHC), M20 (6-cylinder SOHC), M40 (4-cylinder SOHC), M42 (4-cylinder DOHC), M44 (4-cylinder DOHC), S14 (4-cylinder DOHC - M3)

Common Engines For Variants:

Touring: Typically M20 (320i, 325i), M40 (316i, 318i). Convertible: M20 (320i, 325i, M3 Convertible), M40 (318i Convertible).

Displacement Examples:

1.6L, 1.8L, 2.0L, 2.5L, 2.7L, 3.0L (S14 M3)

Horsepower Range:

Approx. 90 hp (316i) to 192 hp (325i), 238 hp (E30 M3 Sport Evolution)

Torque Range:

Approx. 130 Nm to 245 Nm

Fuel Injection:

Bosch L-Jetronic, Bosch Motronic (various versions depending on engine and year)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating dependent on engine, typically 91+ RON)

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

Getrag 240 (4-speed manual on early 4-cyl), Getrag 260 (5-speed manual on most models, incl. 6-cyl and M3)

Automatic Transmission:

ZF 4HP22 (4-speed automatic, often found on 325i and Touring variants)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated

Differential:

Open differential standard, optional Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) available, especially on M3 and some 325i models.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2570 mm (99.1 inches)

Length Touring:

Approx. 4330 mm (170.5 inches)

Length Convertible:

Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 inches)

Width:

Approx. 1680 mm (66.1 inches)

Height Touring:

Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 inches)

Height Convertible:

Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 inches) with top up

Cargo Volume Touring:

Significantly larger than sedan/coupe due to wagon design, specific figures vary by configuration and rear seat use.

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 1150 kg (2535 lbs) to 1350 kg (2976 lbs) depending on engine and body style.

Wheelbase:

2570 mm (101.2 in)

Track Width Front:

1404 mm (55.3 in)

Track Width Rear:

1434 mm (56.5 in)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120

Tire Sizes Examples:

185/70HR14, 195/65HR14, 205/55VR15 (depending on model and trim)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited official data available for this era, but generally considered robust for its time. Known for good structural integrity. Rear-impact performance for convertibles is a general concern for the body style.

ABS:

Optional on most models, standard on higher-performance variants (e.g., M3, some 325i) later in production.

Traction Control:

Rarely available, typically only on late-model M3s (ASC+T).

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia reel seatbelts front and rear (on sedans/tourings). Convertible may have different rear belt configurations.

Airbags:

Driver airbag became optional in later years, not standard across the range.

Roll Over Protection:

Convertible models featured strengthened A-pillars and integrated roll-over protection bars for enhanced safety.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD players in later models. Speaker systems varied by trim. Upgrades are common for modern compatibility.

Cruise Control:

Optional on many models, typically a vacuum-actuated or electronic system.

Mobile Integration:

No built-in modern connectivity (Bluetooth, USB). Requires aftermarket solutions.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic or semi-synthetic oil.

Coolant Change Interval:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (50,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (50,000-100,000 km), depending on plug type (standard copper vs. platinum/iridium).

Timing Belt Replacement:

N/A for M10 and M20 engines (they use a timing chain). M40/M42/M44 engines use a timing belt and require replacement every 60,000-100,000 miles (100,000-160,000 km) or as per manual recommendation, critical to prevent catastrophic engine failure.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH or higher, SAE 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-40, or 10W-30 depending on climate. Consult specific engine recommendations in the manual.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

CHF 11S or Pentosin PSF-3 (specifically for early models, check manual). Later models may use Dexron III ATF.

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Specific BMW part numbers exist.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III ATF or equivalent.

Differential Fluid Type:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Limited-slip differentials may require a specific additive or friction modifier.

Coolant Leaks:

Common leaks from radiator, water pump, thermostat housing, and heater core due to age and material degradation.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, front and rear main seals are common leak points.

Suspension Wear:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, and rear trailing arm bushings can cause poor handling and alignment issues.

Rust:

Areas prone to rust include wheel wells, rocker panels, floor pans, and trunk lid seams. Convertibles may also show rust around the rear window seal and body seams.

Electrical Gremlins:

Degraded wiring insulation, corroded connectors, and failing relays can lead to various electrical problems.

Convertible Top Issues:

Hydraulic leaks, motor failures, and worn seals are common on powered tops. Manual tops can have stiff linkages or worn fabric.

Idle Control:

Idle control valve issues, vacuum leaks, and MAF sensor problems can cause rough idling or stalling.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' was cemented with the E30 generation, known for its exceptional handling and performance.

E30 Development:

The E30 was a significant evolution from the E21, offering a more modern chassis, improved aerodynamics, and a wider range of engine options. The Touring (wagon) variant was introduced in 1987, and the Convertible in 1985.

Touring Significance:

The E30 Touring was BMW's first compact station wagon, a highly successful addition to the line-up that paved the way for future Touring models.

Production Period:

1982-1994 (overall E30, with specific E30 Touring/Convertible production ending around 1991-1993).

Production Locations:

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

Collectibility:

Highly collectible, particularly the M3, Alpina variants, and well-maintained 325i models. The Touring and Convertible models are increasingly sought after.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The BMW 3 Series (E30) was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list throughout its production, highlighting its exceptional driving characteristics.

Motor Trend Import Car Of The Year:

While specific years may vary, the E30 platform was highly regarded by automotive publications for its performance and value.

Certification Standard:

Produced to meet then-current OEM quality and safety standards. Manual adheres to professional automotive documentation standards.