Segment:
Mid-size luxury sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W123, Audi 100, Volvo 240
Design Philosophy:
German engineering, driver-focused ergonomics, robust build quality
Reputation:
Known for sporty handling and build quality of its era
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, component replacement, diagnostic procedures
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (Bosch L-Jetronic typically for 518), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulation
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, fan, coolant flow, hoses
Ignition System:
Distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition timing
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, clutch replacement, gear changes, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, differential, axle shafts, U-joints
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings
Steering:
Steering rack, power steering system, steering column, tie rods
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (typically), brake fluid, master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, brake lines
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, wiring diagrams, fuse box, relays, sensors
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, structural components
Heating And Ventilation:
HVAC system components, blower motor, heater core, ventilation controls
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and replacements
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, common fault identification
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, component overhauls
Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams for electrical system tracing, sensor testing procedures
Adjustments:
Valve adjustments, ignition timing adjustments, carburetor synchronization (if applicable)
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Exploded Views:
Detailed exploded diagrams showing component assembly and disassembly
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Engine Code:
M10 (typically for 518 in this era)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 80.0 mm
Horsepower:
~90 PS (66 kW; 89 hp) at 5,500 rpm (varies by market and tune)
Torque:
~145 Nm (107 lb-ft) at 3,000 rpm (varies by market and tune)
Injection Type:
Bosch L-Jetronic (typically)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
ECU:
Basic electronic engine control unit
Length:
Approx. 4,620 mm (181.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,420 mm (55.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,790 mm (109.8 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,300 - 1,400 kg (2,866 - 3,086 lb) depending on transmission and options
Historical Ratings:
No modern standardized crash test data available for this era (e.g., NCAP)
Braking:
Front ventilated discs, rear drums; unassisted or optional power assist
Steering:
Recirculating ball steering, optional power steering
Seatbelts:
Standard 3-point front seatbelts
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger safety cell
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 20,000 - 30,000 miles (32,000 - 48,000 km)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Transmission Fluid:
Manual: Inspect annually, replace if discolored or contaminated. Automatic: Change fluid and filter every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km)
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 (depending on climate), API SG or higher
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mixture with distilled water)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Rust:
Prone to rust in common areas like wheel arches, rocker panels, and door bottoms
Cooling System:
Aging plastic components in the cooling system can become brittle and leak
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring harnesses and connections can degrade, leading to intermittent electrical issues
Fuel Lines:
Rubber fuel lines can degrade over time, leading to potential leaks
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber suspension bushings can wear out, leading to imprecise handling and noise
