Segment:
Compact executive sedan/coupe.
Brand Perception:
Known for sporty handling, build quality, and European luxury.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Saab 900.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' attributes, precise steering, and balanced chassis.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW solid construction and durable materials.
Utility:
Essential tool for owners and independent mechanics to maintain and repair the vehicle effectively.
Years Covered:
1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991
Estimated Page Count:
Approx. 500-800 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)
Type:
Service and Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF), potentially printable
Engine:
Engine mechanicals, lubrication, cooling, fuel system (EFI), ignition system, exhaust system, engine management
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmissions (removal, installation, overhaul, adjustments)
Drivetrain:
Clutch, driveshafts, differential, axles
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, geometry, adjustments
Steering:
Steering system components, power steering system (if equipped), alignment
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (discs/drums), hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, accessories, body electronics
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (if applicable for the era)
Repair:
Component removal, installation, overhaul, and repair procedures for all major systems
Adjustment:
Valve adjustments, idle speed adjustments, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed steps for engine disassembly, inspection, measurement, component replacement, and reassembly, including piston ring installation, bearing replacement, and cylinder head procedures.
Transmission Overhaul:
Complete guide to overhauling both manual and automatic transmissions, including gear set replacement, synchro ring installation, clutch pack replacement (auto), and valve body service.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all circuits, component location guides, and systematic troubleshooting procedures for electrical faults.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and torque specifications.
Torque Specifications:
Extensive list of torque specifications for all critical fasteners throughout the vehicle.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized BMW tools required for certain procedures.
Digital Quality:
Searchable text, high-resolution images and diagrams, bookmark functionality likely present.
Scalability:
Designed for clear viewing and printing of diagrams and text.
Original Binding:
Likely spiral-bound or perfect-bound for ease of use in a workshop setting (for original printed versions).
Original Paper:
Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments (for original printed versions).
Completeness:
A complete workshop manual intended to cover all aspects of maintenance and repair.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 105-115 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm (depending on market and specific variant)
Torque Est:
Approx. 105-115 lb-ft @ 3200-3500 rpm (depending on market and specific variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (typically 91 octane or higher recommended)
Type:
Liquid-cooled, pressurized system with belt-driven fan and coolant reservoir.
Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approx. 4.5-5.0 quarts (with filter change)
ECU Type:
BMW ECU (e.g., Motronic variants)
Type:
4-speed manual transmission
Type:
4-speed automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22)
Clutch:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch (for manual transmission)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF Dexron II (or equivalent)
NHTSA Rating:
Not formally rated under modern NHTSA standards for this era, but known for robust chassis design.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on later models within this range.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts in front, two-point lap belts in rear.
Crumple Zones:
Designed with front and rear crumple zones for energy absorption.
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column for improved driver protection.
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or 12 months (check manual for specific recommendations).
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
Approx. 20,000-30,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., copper vs. platinum).
Timing Belt Replacement Miles:
The M10 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, which typically requires no scheduled replacement but should be inspected.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (BMW blue coolant or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II (or specific BMW fluid if indicated)
Engine Cooling:
Thermostat housing leaks, water pump failures, radiator deterioration, coolant hose degradation.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump failure, injector clogging, AFM (Air Flow Meter) issues, fuel pressure regulator problems.
Electrical:
Degradation of wiring harness insulation (especially around the engine bay), distributor cap/rotor wear, alternator/starter issues.
Suspension Steering:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, strut mounts, steering rack leaks.
Rust:
Common rust areas include wheel arches, rocker panels, battery tray area, and rear strut towers.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for engineering excellence and sporty driving characteristics.
E30 Introduction:
The E30 platform replaced the E21 3 Series and was produced from 1982 to 1994 globally, with the 318i being a core model.
318I Positioning:
The 318i served as the entry-level to mid-range model within the E30 lineup, offering a balance of performance and economy.
Production Period For Model:
1983-1991 (within the E30 lifecycle)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), with some production also in South Africa and other international facilities.
