🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

318i

Chassis Code:

E30

Model Years Covered:

1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible

Key Competitors Era:

Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra, Opel Vectra (European market)

Vehicle Strengths:

Sporty handling, robust build quality, driver-focused interior, rear-wheel drive dynamics.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners to maintain and repair their classic E30 318i with confidence.

📋 Manual Details

Language:

English

Manual Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Estimated Pages:

500+

Primary Format:

Digital (PDF)

Print Option:

Printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Yes

Engine Electrical:

Yes

Fuel System:

Yes

Cooling System:

Yes

Ignition System:

Yes

Exhaust System:

Yes

Transmission Manual:

Yes

Transmission Automatic:

Yes

Drivetrain:

Yes

Suspension Front:

Yes

Suspension Rear:

Yes

Steering System:

Yes

Braking System:

Yes

Electrical System Lighting:

Yes

Electrical System Accessories:

Yes

Body Panels And Trim:

Yes

HVAC System:

Yes

Interior Components:

Yes

Routine Maintenance:

Yes

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Yes

Component Repair Rebuild:

Yes

Electrical Diagnosis Wiring Diagrams:

Yes

Torque Specifications:

Yes

Special Tools Recommendations:

Yes

Fluid Capacities And Types:

Yes

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive

Diagnostic Detail:

In-depth, including schematics and fault code interpretation (where applicable to the era).

Repair Complexity:

Suitable for DIY enthusiasts to professional technicians.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams and illustrations.

Physical Format If Applicable:

Not applicable (digital product).

Physical Format If Applicable:

Not applicable (digital product).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Common:

M40

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1796 cc)

Horsepower Est:

100-115 hp (depending on market and specific tuning)

Torque Est:

103-114 lb-ft (depending on market and specific tuning)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Bore X Stroke:

81.0 mm x 86.4 mm

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

Getrag 260 5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type Opt:

ZF 4HP22 4-Speed Automatic

Drivetrain:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 170.5 inches (4330 mm)

Width:

Approx. 66.5 inches (1690 mm)

Height:

Approx. 54.5 inches (1385 mm)

Curb Weight Est:

2600-2800 lbs (1180-1270 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety Era Context:

Reflects safety standards of the 1980s; significantly less advanced than modern vehicles.

Brakes:

Front Disc, Rear Drum (later models may have rear discs on some variants)

Airbags:

Driver airbag introduced on later models/facelifts, not standard across all 1983-1991 E30 318i.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front and rear seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Radio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM cassette radio, often with upgraded aftermarket units in surviving examples.

ABS:

Available on some later models, not standard across all 1983-1991 318i.

Connectivity Features:

Limited to basic analog systems; no digital connectivity features expected for the era.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Est:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to manual for exact spec).

Spark Plug Replacement Est:

Every 20,000-30,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type Est:

API SF/SG, Viscosity 15W-40 or 10W-40 (consult manual for precise BMW spec).

Coolant Type Est:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (BMW Blue or similar).

Transmission Fluid Manual Est:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., Castrol EP 75W-90).

Transmission Fluid Automatic Est:

Dexron II or III compatible fluid (e.g., Pentosin ATF).

Common E30 Issues:

Coolant flange leaks, fuel distributor diaphragm issues (M10 engine), vacuum leaks, idle control valve issues, rear subframe mounts cracking, worn suspension bushings, blower motor resistor failure.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Detailed guides for diagnosing and resolving common issues listed above and more.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Known for performance, luxury, and engineering precision in the sport sedan segment.

E30 Generation:

Second generation of the 3 Series, a significant evolution from the E21, popularizing the compact sports sedan.

Production Years E30:

1982-1994 (globally)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Main), South Africa, USA (CKD)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E30 Generation Recognition:

Consistently ranked among the best driver's cars of its era; praised for handling and build quality.