🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

518

Generation:

E28

Chassis Code:

E28

Engine Codes Covered:

M10B18

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Essential resource for BMW E28 518 owners and independent workshops seeking to maintain or repair their vehicles cost-effectively.

Comparison:

Offers greater detail and scope than basic owner's manuals, providing in-depth technical guidance comparable to factory service manuals.

Value Proposition:

Significant cost savings on dealership service and repairs by empowering owners and technicians with comprehensive knowledge.

Scope:

Covers a wide range of maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting procedures, making it a complete workshop solution.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

1981-1985

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshaft, timing components.

Engine Fuel System:

Carburetor systems (Solex, Pierburg), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter replacement, diagnosis.

Ignition System:

Distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition timing adjustment, electronic ignition components (if applicable).

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications, flush and refill procedures.

Exhaust System:

Muffler, catalytic converter (if equipped), exhaust manifold, pipe replacement, gasket specifications.

Transmission Manual:

Gearbox overhaul, clutch replacement, shift linkage adjustment, fluid specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

General maintenance, fluid checks, filter replacement, troubleshooting common issues.

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, rear axle overhaul, lubrication.

Suspension Front:

MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, tie rods, steering linkage, wheel bearing replacement.

Suspension Rear:

Independent rear suspension components, trailing arms, shock absorbers, bushings, wheel bearings.

Steering System:

Steering rack, power steering pump and lines (if equipped), steering column, alignment procedures.

Brake System Front:

Disc brake components, calipers, pads, rotors, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.

Brake System Rear:

Drum brake components (if applicable), shoes, drums, wheel cylinders, parking brake adjustment.

Electrical System Charging:

Alternator, voltage regulator, battery maintenance and testing.

Electrical System Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lighting, bulb types and replacement.

Electrical System Accessories:

Wipers, horn, power windows (if equipped), central locking (if equipped), fuses, relays.

Body Exterior:

Door panel removal, bumper replacement, trim piece installation, glass replacement, body panel alignment.

Body Interior:

Seat removal and repair, dashboard disassembly, headliner replacement, carpet installation.

Climate Control:

Heater core replacement, blower motor service, air conditioning system (if equipped) basic troubleshooting.

Basic Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks, tire pressure adjustments, spark plug replacement.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Systematic diagnostic charts for common drivability, electrical, and mechanical faults.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing all major and minor components.

Rebuilding Overhauling:

Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds.

Torque Specifications:

Essential torque values for all critical fasteners.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for various vehicle systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.

Detail Level:

Detailed illustrations, diagrams, and step-by-step instructions.

Diagnostic Approach:

Includes symptom-based troubleshooting guides and fault code interpretation (where applicable).

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Quality:

High-resolution scans for clear text and legible diagrams.

Printable:

Yes, pages can be printed for workshop use.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M10B18

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1766 cc)

Horsepower Approx:

90-102 hp (depending on market and tuning)

Torque Approx:

100-110 lb-ft (depending on market and tuning)

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetor (e.g., Solex 34 PICT/3, Pierburg 35/31 CT or similar)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (RON 91-95)

Ignition System:

Breaker point ignition or early electronic ignition systems.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed manual transmission

Type:

3-speed ZF automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 3HP22)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated

Fluid Type:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil

Fluid Type:

ATF Dexron III (or equivalent for ZF 3HP22)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,620 mm (181.9 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,700 mm (106.3 in)

Curb Weight Approx:

Approx. 1,270 kg (2,800 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approx:

Approx. 1,750 kg (3,858 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited official crash test data for this specific early model, but known for robust build quality characteristic of BMWs of the era.

Braking:

Four-wheel disc brakes (front vented discs), hydraulic brake booster.

Steering:

Recirculating ball steering, optional power steering.

Chassis:

Unitary body construction with integrated safety cage.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia reel seatbelts for front occupants, lap belts for rear.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed analog radio with cassette player; aftermarket options common.

Climate Control:

Manual climate control with heater and fan speed adjustments. Optional air conditioning with mechanical controls.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on some E28 models, though less common on the 518.

Connectivity Features:

None in the modern sense; basic vehicle systems and manual operation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-15,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specifications).

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed or every 15,000-20,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended replacement every 20,000-30,000 miles, depending on spark plug type.

Engine Oil:

API SG or SH, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 recommended. Refer to manual for precise weight based on climate.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Rust Corrosion:

Susceptible to rust in wheel arches, rocker panels, and around windows. Regular inspection and undercoating are advisable.

Cooling System Leaks:

Radiator, heater core, and hose failures can occur with age. Regular checks for leaks are important.

Fuel System Carburetor:

Carburetors can require periodic adjustment or rebuild due to wear or gumming, especially with infrequent use or poor fuel quality.

Electrical Connectors:

Degradation of wiring harness connectors and grounds can lead to intermittent electrical faults.

Suspension Bushings:

Rubber suspension bushings (control arms, sway bars) degrade over time, leading to clunks and poor handling.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's reputation for building driver-focused, technologically advanced, and well-engineered vehicles.

E28 Introduction:

The E28 generation succeeded the E12 5 Series, introducing a more modern, angular design and improved aerodynamics. It was a significant step in BMW's executive sedan lineage.

E28 518 Positioning:

The 518 was the entry-level model in the E28 range, offering a more fuel-efficient and accessible entry into the BMW ownership experience, often targeted at markets with higher fuel taxes or different taxation structures.

Production Years:

E28 series produced from 1981 to 1988. The 518 variant was part of the early production run (1981-1985).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Acclaim:

While the 518 variant itself may not have specific awards, the E28 generation was widely praised for its driving dynamics, build quality, and refinement, establishing BMW's dominance in the executive sedan market.

Reliability:

Generally considered reliable when properly maintained, with many examples still on the road today.

Certification:

N/A for the manual itself; it serves as a certification of technical knowledge.