Market Position:
The BMW 318i E30 was a popular entry-level luxury sport sedan/coupe in the 1980s, known for its engaging driving dynamics and build quality. This manual caters to owners and independent workshops seeking in-depth knowledge to maintain and repair these vehicles.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, and the Alfa Romeo 75, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and sporting character.
Key Features:
Detailed, step-by-step instructions, comprehensive diagrams, extensive troubleshooting guides, and essential technical data for all major repair and maintenance tasks.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical Systems, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Bodywork, Interior, Troubleshooting, Maintenance
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Delivery:
Instant Download
Manual Completeness:
Covers all major repair and maintenance aspects, intended to be a complete workshop reference.
Systems Covered:
Engine (including rebuild), Fuel System (carburetor/injection depending on specific variant), Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission (if applicable), Driveshafts, Differentials, Front Suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), Rear Suspension (Semi-trailing arms), Steering System (rack and pinion), Hydraulic Brake System (discs/drums), Electrical System (wiring diagrams, component testing), Battery and Charging System, Lighting, Gauges, Switches, HVAC System (basic operation)
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), Inspections and Adjustments (valve lash, timing belt tension, brake adjustments), Engine Removal and Installation, Cylinder Head Overhaul, Piston and Connecting Rod Installation, Crankshaft and Bearing Service, Clutch Replacement, Transmission Repair and Overhaul, Differential Service, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Overhaul, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Wiring Harness Repair, Troubleshooting Common Issues
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics.
Troubleshooting Procedures:
Extensive troubleshooting section covering common drivability, electrical, and mechanical faults with diagnostic flowcharts.
Print Quality:
Printable (User configurable resolution)
Searchability:
Likely searchable text within PDF (depending on source scan quality)
Compatibility:
PC and MAC Compatible
Navigation:
Zoom in/out functionality
Diagram Clarity:
Detailed, step-by-step diagrams for mechanical and electrical procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated (primarily M10 and M40 families)
Displacement Cc:
1.8 Liters (1766cc)
Bore X Stroke Mm:
Approximately 84.0 x 81.0 mm (varies slightly by specific engine variant)
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 8.2:1 to 9.5:1 (varies by specific engine variant)
Horsepower Hp:
Approximately 98-105 hp @ 5500-5800 RPM (varies by specific engine variant)
Torque Lb-Ft:
Approximately 101-103 lb-ft @ 3000-3250 RPM (varies by specific engine variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or K-Jetronic fuel injection (depending on year and market), or carburetion on earlier/specific models.
Valve Lash Adjustment Mm:
Intake: 0.20-0.25 mm, Exhaust: 0.25-0.30 mm (typical for M10, check manual for exact specifications for M40)
Ignition Timing Degrees Btdc:
Approximately 5-10 degrees BTDC (idle, check manual for exact specifications)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval Miles:
Approximately 30,000-40,000 miles for M40 engines (if applicable, M10 engines use a timing chain). Crucial maintenance item, failure can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW ATF Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for precise specification)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW ATF Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for precise specification)
Length Mm:
Approximately 4325 mm (4-door sedan)
Width Mm:
Approximately 1675 mm
Height Mm:
Approximately 1380 mm (4-door sedan)
Curb Weight Kg:
Approximately 1200-1300 kg (varies by body style and equipment)
Wheelbase Mm:
Approximately 2570 mm
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 120 mm
Typical Tire Size:
175/70 R14 or 185/65 R14 (varies by trim and options)
Wheel Offset Et:
Typically ET25 to ET30 (verify specific requirements)
NHTSA Crash Test Results:
Data for this specific era may be limited; focus is on structural integrity and driver protection features of the time.
Active Safety Features:
Four-wheel disc brakes (standard on most models, some early rears may be drums), ABS (optional on later models)
Passive Safety Features:
Crumple zones, safety steering column, reinforced passenger cell, three-point seatbelts.
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Typically 5,000 - 7,500 miles or annually, whichever comes first (consult manual for exact recommendation based on oil type and driving conditions).
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
Approximately 30,000 miles (for standard plugs, platinum/iridium may vary).
Coolant Flush Interval Miles:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (check manual for specific coolant type and interval).
Engine Oil Type Viscosity:
BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact specification and seasonal recommendations).
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
Approximately 4.5 - 5.0 liters (with filter, check manual)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors (BMW Blue or equivalent, check manual).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific requirement).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
BMW ATF Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for precise specification)
Common Issues:
Cooling system component failure (radiator, water pump, hoses), fuel distributor issues (K-Jetronic), idle control valve problems, worn suspension bushings, rear subframe mount cracks, early ABS sensor failures (if equipped), rust formation (wheel wells, rocker panels).
Brand Heritage:
BMW, renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, built the E30 platform to uphold its legacy of sporty sedans and coupes.
Model Evolution:
The E30 replaced the E21 and was a significant step forward in design and engineering, introducing a more modern aesthetic and improved dynamics. It was produced in various body styles including sedan, coupe, convertible, and touring (wagon).
Production Years Overall:
1982-1991
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany, with some production in South Africa and other international facilities.
