🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

318i

Year:

1990

Chassis Code:

E30

Engine Code Primary:

M40B18

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, owners seeking to maintain or restore their E30 318i

Competitors 1990:

Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Volvo 240 Series

Vehicle Attributes:

Rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, driver-focused interior, solid build quality, inline-four engine efficiency.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners with in-depth knowledge to perform all levels of maintenance and repair, extending vehicle lifespan and preserving its value.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered Overview:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission, Clutch, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Bodywork, Chassis, Electrical Systems, Climate Control, Interior Components

Estimated Pages:

800+

Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul procedures for M40B18 engine, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system, sensors, actuators, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, wiring diagrams

Fuel System:

Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter replacement, diagnostics

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan operation, coolant replacement, leak detection

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipe replacement, gasket maintenance

Transmission:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission overhaul, clutch assembly replacement, shift linkage adjustment, transmission fluid service

Drivetrain:

Rear axle differential, driveshaft, CV joints, wheel bearing replacement

Suspension:

Front struts, rear shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, ball joints, sway bars, alignment specifications

Steering:

Steering rack, tie rods, power steering system, pump, fluid replacement

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or discs on some models), brake fluid flush, caliper overhaul, master cylinder, parking brake adjustments

Bodywork:

Door panel removal, interior trim, exterior body panel repair, rust prevention, panel alignment

Electrical Systems:

Complete wiring diagrams, lighting systems, interior electronics, fuse box layout, instrument cluster diagnostics

Climate Control:

HVAC system, blower motor, evaporator, heater core, A/C refrigerant service (requires specialized tools/knowledge)

Interior Components:

Seat removal, dashboard disassembly, door handle replacement, window regulator repair

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, transmission fluid changes, differential fluid changes, belt inspections and replacement

Repair Procedures:

Engine rebuilding, transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuild, starter/alternator replacement, fuel pump replacement, radiator replacement

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic charts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting, ECU fault code interpretation (OBD-I era)

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for major component overhauls like engine, transmission, and differential

Calibration And Adjustment:

Valve lash adjustment (if applicable), ignition timing adjustment (if applicable), idle speed control, clutch pedal free play, parking brake adjustment

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes (typically for well-produced digital manuals)

Printable:

Yes

Illustrations Quality:

High-quality diagrams and photographs (expected)

Text Clarity:

Clear and legible technical language

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M40B18

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1796 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 77.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Valve Train:

SOHC, 8 Valves (2 per cylinder)

Horsepower Hp:

115 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)

Torque Lb-Ft:

115 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic (Jetronic K)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)

Engine Oil Type:

API SG, SAE 10W-40 (or 15W-50 in warmer climates)

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based)

Coolant Capacity:

7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 260 5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-Speed Automatic (Optional)

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios detailed in manual (e.g., 3.71:1 First, 2.44:1 Second, 1.65:1 Third, 1.24:1 Fourth, 0.94:1 Fifth, 3.46:1 Reverse)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF-LT-2 equivalent) or SAE 75W-90 GL-4 Gear Oil

Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:

1.5 Liters (1.6 US Quarts)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW ATF DEXTRON II (or equivalent)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

1.7 Liters (1.8 US Quarts) for torque converter drain and fill

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4345 mm (171.1 in)

Width:

1675 mm (65.9 in)

Height:

1380 mm (54.3 in)

Wheelbase:

2570 mm (101.2 in)

Curb Weight:

1200-1250 kg (2646-2756 lbs) depending on options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

1650 kg (3638 lbs) (approx.)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Limited modern crash test data available for this era; known for robust chassis construction.

Braking System:

Front Ventilated Disc Brakes, Rear Solid Disc Brakes (standard on 318i E30, drums on earlier models or specific trims)

Antilock Braking System:

Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some models.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag was optional or introduced later in the E30 lifecycle; not standard on all 1990 models.

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts

Construction:

Unitized steel body construction with front and rear crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted radio/cassette player (e.g., Bavaria C, Grundig models), often with provision for upgraded speakers or CD changers.

Instrument Cluster:

Analog gauges including speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, engine temperature, oil pressure warning light, and basic indicator lights.

ABS:

Optional ABS system, providing improved braking control during emergency stops.

Connectivity Features:

Minimal by modern standards. Primarily relies on standard automotive electrical connections. No integrated Bluetooth, USB, or advanced telematics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Air Filter Replacement:

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

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on spark plug type (e.g., standard, platinum).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).

Brake Fluid Flush Interval:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Timing Belt Replacement:

The M40 engine uses a timing *chain*, not a belt. The chain tensioner and guides should be inspected regularly, and replacement is typically done at high mileage or if noise is present. The manual will cover inspection and potential replacement procedures.

Common Problems M40 Engine:

Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket and front crank seal; potential for sludge buildup if maintenance is neglected; idle control valve issues; coolant flange leaks; timing chain guide wear.

Common Problems E30 Chassis:

Subframe mounting point rust; heater blower motor resistor failure; door seal degradation; aging rubber bushings in suspension and drivetrain; electrical connector corrosion; dashboard plastic degradation (UV exposure).

Oil Filter Example:

Mann-Filter W914/2, Mahle OC24, Bosch 0 451 103 046 (Consult manual for precise OEM or equivalent part numbers)

Air Filter Example:

Mann-Filter C28118, Bosch 1 457 433 024 (Consult manual for precise OEM or equivalent part numbers)

Spark Plug Example:

Bosch W8AC, NGK BP5ES-11 (Consult manual for precise OEM or equivalent part numbers)

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

BMW has a long history of producing driver-oriented vehicles with excellent handling and build quality, dating back to the early 20th century.

E30 Generation:

The E30 generation (1982-1994) is the second generation of the BMW 3 Series, renowned for its iconic styling and driving dynamics. The 318i, particularly with the M40 engine, represented a more accessible entry point into the 3 Series range.

E30 318I Introduction:

The 318i model was introduced in 1982 with the M10 engine and later received the M40 engine in 1987, which became standard for the 318i in many markets by 1990, offering improved efficiency and lower emissions.

Production Years E30:

1982-1994

Manufacturing Locations:

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

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Acclaim:

The E30 chassis as a whole received numerous accolades for its driving dynamics, build quality, and sporty character. While the 318i was an entry-level model, it benefited from the chassis's excellent engineering.

Performance Ratings:

Often praised by automotive journalists of the era for its handling and driver engagement, despite the modest power output of the M40 engine.