🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

316 / 316i

Year:

1984

Chassis Code:

E30

Engine Code Typical 316:

M10B18

Engine Code Typical 316I:

M10B18 (with K-Jetronic fuel injection)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional workshops servicing E30 BMWs

Competitors 1984:

Mercedes-Benz W201 (190E), Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Saab 900

Vehicle Philosophy:

BMW's renowned driving dynamics, solid build quality, and functional design characteristic of the era.

Manual Value Proposition:

Essential for maintaining the longevity and performance of a classic BMW E30, providing in-depth technical knowledge.

📋 Manual Details

Full Vehicle Coverage:

Yes

Engine Variants Covered:

1.8L M10B18 (carbureted and fuel-injected)

Transmission Types Covered:

4-speed Manual, 5-speed Manual, 3-speed Automatic

Body Styles Covered:

2-door Sedan, 4-door Sedan

Trim Levels Covered:

All applicable trim levels for 316 and 316i

Estimated Pages:

500-700 (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Type:

Workshop Repair and Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full disassembly, assembly, overhaul, component inspection, tolerances

Engine Fuel System Carbureted:

Weber/Solex carburetor tuning, rebuild, maintenance

Engine Fuel System Injection:

Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system diagnostics, troubleshooting, component testing, pressure regulation

Ignition System:

Distributor, coil, spark plugs, timing adjustments, troubleshooting

Cooling System:

Radiator, thermostat, water pump, hoses, coolant specifications, bleeding procedures

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, oil specifications, oil change procedures

Exhaust System:

Mufflers, catalytic converter (if applicable), pipes, heat shields, replacement

Transmission Manual:

Clutch assembly, gearbox overhaul, gear selection, fluid specifications

Transmission Automatic:

Fluid level checks, filter replacement, basic troubleshooting, torque converter

Drivetrain Rear Axle:

Differential overhaul, axle shafts, bearings, fluid specifications

Suspension Front:

MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, wheel alignment procedures

Suspension Rear:

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

Steering System:

Steering rack, tie rods, steering column, fluid specifications (for power steering), troubleshooting

Braking System:

Front discs, rear drums (typical), calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, bleeding, pad/shoe replacement, rotor specifications

Electrical System Charging:

Alternator, voltage regulator, battery testing and replacement

Electrical System Starting:

Starter motor, solenoid, ignition switch, testing

Electrical System Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, bulb specifications, wiring diagrams

Electrical System Accessories:

Wipers, washers, horn, power windows (if equipped), fuses, relays

Body And Chassis:

Body panel repair, rust prevention, door mechanisms, glass replacement, sealants

Heating And Ventilation:

HVAC system, blower motor, heater core, ventilation controls, cabin filters (if applicable)

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug checks

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step guides for replacing major and minor components

Rebuilding And Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds

Adjustment Procedures:

Valve adjustments, ignition timing, carburetor idle speed, brake adjustments

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for various systems

Depth:

Comprehensive (covering routine maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)

Diagnostic Codes:

While OBD-I/OBD-II were nascent, the manual would cover diagnostic checks using multimeters and basic logic testers, not electronic scan tools as we know them today.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Likely, assuming a professionally scanned and OCR'd document

Printable:

Yes

Image Resolution:

High-resolution scans of original diagrams and photos are expected for a quality manual.

Original Binding:

Perfect bound or saddle-stitched (for original print manuals)

Original Paper:

High-quality, durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

1766 cc (1.8 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

89.0 mm x 71.0 mm

Compression Ratio Carb:

8.3:1 (typical for M10B18 carb)

Compression Ratio Injection:

9.4:1 (typical for M10B18 K-Jetronic)

Horsepower Carb:

90 PS (89 bhp / 66 kW) at 5400 rpm (typical)

Torque Carb:

14.3 kg⋅m (140 N⋅m / 103 lb⋅ft) at 3200 rpm (typical)

Horsepower Injection:

99 PS (98 bhp / 73 kW) at 5500 rpm (typical)

Torque Injection:

14.5 kg⋅m (142 N⋅m / 105 lb⋅ft) at 3700 rpm (typical)

Carbureted Model Fuel Delivery:

Single downdraft carburetor (e.g., Pierburg 2B4 or Solex 40 DDITA)

Fuel Injected Model Fuel Delivery:

Bosch CIS (Continuous Injection System) K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (91 RON / 87 AKI recommended)

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed Manual

Transmission Type Optional 1:

5-speed Manual

Transmission Type Optional 2:

3-speed ZF 3HP22 Automatic

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated

Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil

Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:

Dexron-III (or equivalent) ATF

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4340 mm (170.9 in)

Width:

1674 mm (65.9 in)

Height:

1380 mm (54.3 in)

Wheelbase:

2570 mm (101.2 in)

Curb Weight Approx:

1100 - 1200 kg (2425 - 2645 lbs), depending on options and transmission

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approx:

1500 - 1600 kg (3307 - 3527 lbs)

Towing Capacity:

Not typically specified or recommended for this model

Trunk Capacity Approx:

430 liters (15.2 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited official Euro NCAP or IIHS data for this specific year/model, but the E30 platform was known for robust safety cell design for its era.

Brakes:

Front ventilated discs, rear drums; ABS was an option on later E30 models, unlikely standard on '84 316/316i.

Steering:

Recirculating ball steering (non-power as standard, power steering optional).

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seatbelts, likely lap belts in the rear (three-point rear belts may have been optional).

Construction:

Unibody construction with integrated safety cage and crumple zones.

Windscreen:

Laminated safety glass front, toughened glass side and rear (typical).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Original factory radio (e.g., Blaupunkt or Becker) with AM/FM, cassette player. Speaker systems typically 4-6 speakers.

Driver Aids:

Limited to basic systems. ABS was optional and not widely adopted on early models. No electronic stability control (DSC), traction control, or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

Connectivity Features:

None in the modern sense. Basic provision for antenna and speaker wiring.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 5,000-10,000 miles (8,000-16,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil quality used.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), depending on plug type.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Timing Belt Replacement:

The M10 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, requiring no regular replacement unless issues arise.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SF, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on ambient temperature).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter change

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Common E30 Issues 1:

Front and rear subframe mounting points cracking, rear shock mounts failing, rust (especially around wheel arches, sills, and sunroof panel).

Common E30 Issues 2:

Fuel distributor leaks (K-Jetronic), distributor cap/rotor wear, vacuum leaks, old rubber hoses and bushings deteriorating.

Common E30 Issues 3:

Heater control valve failure, dashboard instrument cluster intermittent issues.

Cooling System Weakness:

Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for engineering excellence, sportiness, and driver engagement dating back to the mid-20th century.

E30 Introduction:

The E30 generation replaced the E21 3 Series and was produced from 1982 to 1994. It marked a significant evolution in BMW's compact executive offerings.

316 Positioning:

The 316 served as the entry-level model in many markets, offering BMW quality and driving characteristics at a more accessible price point.

Production Years E30:

1982-1991 (sedans), 1983-1993 (touring/wagon - not for this manual), 1985-1991 (convertible)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary production in Munich, Germany, with some assembly in other global locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E30 Recognition:

The E30 3 Series is widely regarded as one of the best driving cars of its era and a benchmark for sports sedans. Often cited in 'best driver's cars' lists.

Motor Trend Car Of The Year E30:

The E30 3 Series was Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1983.