Target Audience:
BMW enthusiasts, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W123, Audi 100, Volvo 240
Vehicle Philosophy:
Build quality, driving dynamics, understated luxury
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with detailed, accurate repair and maintenance information
Engine:
Complete overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition system
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and overhaul
Drivetrain:
Clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles, bearings
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings
Steering:
Steering rack, power steering system, tie rods, steering column
Brakes:
Disc brake systems (front and rear), hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, fuses, relays, diagnostic connectors
Bodywork:
Body panel repair, alignment, rust prevention, door mechanisms, glass replacement
Interior:
Seating, dashboard, trim, HVAC system components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical systems
Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds
Restoration:
Guidance on refurbishing and restoring components for authenticity
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Horsepower:
90 PS (89 bhp / 66 kW) @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
140 Nm (103 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection (or K-Jetronic depending on specific market/variant)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91+)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (e.g., Bremi or Bosch)
Safety Standards:
Designed to meet 1980s European safety regulations
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs
Seatbelts:
Standard 3-point front seatbelts
Chassis:
Reinforced safety cell construction
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 miles (32,000 - 48,000 km)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable (M10 is a timing chain engine)
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity recommendations)
Coolant:
BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron II or equivalent (ZF TE-ML 09)
Common Problems:
Rusting (wheel arches, rocker panels), fuel distributor issues (L-Jetronic), sagging headliner, aging rubber components (bushings, hoses)
Specific Attention Areas:
Fuel Injector seals, vacuum hoses, engine mounts, differential mounts
Brand Legacy:
BMW's reputation for performance, engineering, and driver engagement
E28 Introduction:
Introduced in 1981 as a successor to the E12 5 Series
518I Positioning:
The entry-level model in the E28 range, offering efficiency and BMW driving characteristics
Production Period:
E28 series produced from 1981 to 1987
