🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Model Variant:

518 / 518i

Model Chassis Code:

E28

Production Years Covered:

1985, 1986, 1987, 1988

Engine Code Coverage:

M10 (specific variants for 518/518i)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Executive Sedan, Luxury Mid-size Sedan

Key Competitors Era:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Volvo 240/740, Jaguar XJ6 (Series III).

Bmw Brand Philosophy:

'The Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos focused on performance, handling, and driver engagement.

Model Focus:

The 518 and 518i represented the entry-level variants of the E28 5 Series, offering BMW's renowned engineering and build quality at a more accessible price point, particularly appealing in markets sensitive to engine displacement and fuel economy.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, clutch, transmission, driveshaft, differential, rear axle, suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front and rear), electrical system (including wiring diagrams), bodywork, interior, climate control, troubleshooting, maintenance, specifications.

Estimated Page Count:

500+

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul procedures, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, camshaft, timing chain/belt, valve train.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel injectors (for 'i' models), carburetor (for non-'i' models), fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel pressure regulation, testing and diagnosis.

Ignition System:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor (if applicable), ignition control module, timing, troubleshooting.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan, diagnosis of leaks and overheating.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable), muffler, pipes, hangers, gaskets.

Drivetrain Manual:

Clutch assembly, flywheel, clutch hydraulics, transmission (gearbox) removal/installation, internal component overhaul, driveshaft, universal joints, differential, rear axle assembly.

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings), rear suspension (semi-trailing arms, bushings, shock absorbers), wheel alignment specifications, steering rack, power steering system (pump, hoses, fluid), tie rods, steering linkage.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or discs depending on specific variant), brake pads, rotors, calipers, wheel cylinders, brake lines, master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake system, bleeding procedure, troubleshooting.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all circuits, instrument cluster, sensors, ECU (for 'i' models), troubleshooting electrical faults.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, glass replacement, interior trim, rust prevention and repair.

Preventative Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication points, belt inspection and replacement, spark plug replacement, brake inspection.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic guides for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, fault code interpretation (where applicable).

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.

Diagnostics:

Methods for diagnosing engine performance, electrical system faults, suspension issues, and brake system problems.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive (covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed wiring diagrams and specifications).

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Searchable Text:

Yes

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (M10 engine family)

Engine Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1766 cc)

Horsepower 518:

Approx. 90 hp @ 5500 rpm (carbureted version)

Torque 518:

Approx. 135 Nm (99 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (carbureted version)

Horsepower 518I:

Approx. 105 hp @ 5800 rpm (Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection)

Torque 518I:

Approx. 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection)

Fuel System 518:

Single Downdraft Carburetor (e.g., Solex, Pierburg)

Fuel System 518I:

Bosch L-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating as per manual, typically 91 or higher)

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

3-speed ZF 3HP22 Automatic Transmission

Clutch Type:

Single Dry Plate, Hydraulically Actuated

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W/90 or 80W/90 Gear Oil (Check manual for exact BMW specification like SAF-XO or equivalent)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-II or equivalent (Check manual for exact BMW specification)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,710 mm (185.4 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,795 mm (110.0 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs), varies by equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by specific model and region, consult manual.

Standard Tire Size:

175/70 R14 or 185/65 R14 (Check manual for exact fitment)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Wheel Offset:

ET 22 to ET 30 (approx., check manual for specific wheels)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

ERA 1980s safety standards. E28 chassis known for robust construction but lacks modern active safety systems. Frontal impact data available in broader E28 reviews.

Anti Lock Brakes:

Optional on later models and some 518i variants (check specific vehicle specification).

Seatbelts:

Front 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts, rear lap belts (3-point optional/standard depending on market and trim).

Headrests:

Front and rear adjustable headrests.

Body Structure:

Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones front and rear.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic radio/cassette player, often with optional upgraded sound systems. No digital displays or advanced connectivity.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited; ABS was optional. Focus on mechanical feedback and driver control.

Connectivity Options:

N/A (pre-digital era). Antennas for radio reception.

Engine Control Unit:

Bosch Motronic or L-Jetronic (518i models) for fuel injection and ignition timing control.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise intervals based on driving conditions).

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000-30,000 miles (depending on spark plug type specified in manual).

Coolant Replacement:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (using appropriate BMW coolant).

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check manual for specific BMW LL rating or equivalent).

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Power Steering Fluid or ATF Dexron-II equivalent.

Common Wear Items:

Bushings (control arms, sway bars, trailing arms), flex discs (driveshaft), fuel injectors (518i), coolant hoses, thermostat, brake components, aging wiring harness insulation.

Engine Specific Concerns:

M10 engine is generally robust but can suffer from oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), timing chain wear, and potential carburetor issues on 518 models.

Body Corrosion:

Rust can be an issue, particularly around wheel arches, sills, door bottoms, and trunk floor.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw History Focus:

BMW AG, established in 1916, renowned for its 'Bayerische Motoren Werke' heritage in aircraft engines, later focusing on high-performance motorcycles and automobiles. Known for engineering excellence and driver-centric design.

E28 Generation:

The E28 was the second generation of the BMW 5 Series, produced from 1981 to 1988. It succeeded the E12 and was replaced by the E34. It introduced significant aerodynamic improvements and technological advancements over its predecessor.

518 518I Positioning:

The 518 and 518i were the entry-level models within the E28 lineup, designed to offer BMW's executive sedan experience to a broader market, particularly in Europe where engine size often influenced taxation and insurance costs. The 'i' denotes the fuel-injected version, offering slightly improved performance and efficiency.

Production Period:

1981-1988 (E28 generation), with 518/518i variants specifically within the 1985-1988 timeframe of this manual.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Recognition:

The E28 generation generally received positive reviews for its driving dynamics, build quality, and refinement compared to its contemporaries, solidifying BMW's reputation.

Owner Satisfaction Era:

Owners often praised the longevity and driving pleasure, though maintenance costs could be higher than some competitors.