Target Audience:
BMW E30 316i owners, DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops
Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, detailed repair and maintenance information for the BMW 316i E30, enabling owners to service and repair their vehicles effectively.
Differentiation:
Claims 'real deal' status with A-Z coverage of mechanical and electrical repairs, distinguishing it from less comprehensive guides.
Content Highlight:
Extensive coverage of all repairs, both mechanical and electrical, supported by detailed visuals.
Covered Models:
All BMW 316i E30 models
Covered Years:
1988, 1989, 1990, 1991
Coverage Scope:
Mechanical and Electrical Repairs, A-Z
Estimated Page Count:
Varies (Digital product, printable pages, content comprehensive)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (Printable Pages)
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), cooling system, exhaust system
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission repair, clutch, driveshafts, differential
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake pad/disc replacement, caliper overhaul
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, steering rack, power steering
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, ignition system, engine control unit (ECU), diagnostics
Bodywork Interior:
Body panel repair, rust prevention, interior trim, seats, HVAC system
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, timing belt/chain inspection, fluid level checks
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for all mechanical and electrical component repairs and replacements
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common issues
Diagnostics:
Engine management diagnostics, electrical fault finding using diagrams
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics
Visual Aids:
Tons of detailed pictures and diagrams
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1596 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 71.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 or 9.5:1 (depending on specific model year/market)
Horsepower:
Approx. 102 PS (75 kW; 101 hp) at 6000 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 140 Nm (103 lb-ft) at 4300 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection (Mono-Jetronic on earlier models, likely L-Jetronic/Motronic on later 1988-1991 models)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Premium recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (Distributorless on later models, or with distributor)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Manual ( Getrag 240 )
Transmission Type:
3-speed Automatic (ZF 3HP22)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulic actuation
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent
Body Styles:
2-door Sedan (E30/2), 4-door Sedan (E30/4), Convertible (E30/2C), Touring (E30/5 - less common for 316i)
Wheelbase:
2560 mm (100.8 in)
Length:
Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 in) for sedans
Width:
Approx. 1640 mm (64.6 in)
Height:
Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in) for sedans
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1150 - 1250 kg (2535 - 2756 lbs) depending on body style and transmission
Safety Features Era:
Standard safety features for the late 1980s/early 1990s.
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear drums (or all-around discs on some later models). ABS optional on some variants.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, often with pretensioners. Rear seatbelts.
Body Construction:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Radio System:
Factory-fitted radio/cassette player (various brands like Blaupunkt, Becker). Aftermarket upgrades common.
On Board Computer:
Optional On-Board Computer (OBC) with basic functions like fuel consumption, trip distance, time.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on many E30 models, including the 316i.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily focused on basic vehicle functions. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity from the factory.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (check manual for exact spec).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approx. 30,000 - 40,000 km (depending on plug type, e.g., copper vs. platinum).
Timing Belt Interval:
The M40 engine uses a timing belt. Replacement interval typically around 60,000 km or 4 years. Critical to replace as failure can cause severe engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic or Semi-Synthetic 10W-40 or 5W-40 (API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3, BMW Longlife-98 specification may be applicable for later oil types).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, mixed with distilled water. BMW Blue coolant (G48) or equivalent.
Engine M40:
Timing belt wear, valve stem seals (oil consumption), starter motor issues, idle control valve issues, injector seals.
Electrical:
Corrosion in fuse box and connectors, failure of OBC (On-Board Computer) if equipped, intermittent dashboard warning lights.
Body Rust:
Common rust areas include wheel arches, rocker panels, jacking points, and around windows.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers.
Bmw Philosophy:
Focus on the 'Ultimate Driving Machine', sporty handling, and driver engagement.
E30 Development:
The E30 generation succeeded the E21 and introduced significant improvements in handling, refinement, and a wider range of engine options. It was a highly successful model for BMW.
E30 Timeline:
Produced from 1982 to 1994 (globally, with sedan production ending earlier in some markets). The 316i variant was introduced later in the E30 lifecycle.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany, with some assembly in other BMW facilities globally.
E30 Reputation:
The E30 platform is highly regarded for its driving dynamics, build quality, and longevity, often considered a modern classic.
Contemporary Reviews:
Contemporary reviews praised the E30's handling, responsive steering, and comfortable ride, though the 316i was positioned as the entry-level model with more modest performance.
