🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

518i

Year:

1983

Chassis Code:

E28

Engine Code:

M10B18

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Entry-level luxury sedan, focused on driver engagement and build quality

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W123, Audi 100, Volvo 240

Design Philosophy:

Classic BMW ' Hofmeister kink' in the C-pillar, clean lines, driver-oriented cockpit

Performance Orientation:

Rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, responsive steering

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Workshop

Estimated Pages:

700+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

1.8L M10 4-cylinder (including fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication)

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic Transmission (overhaul, adjustment, fluid service)

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, differential, axles, wheel bearings

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs

Steering:

Steering rack, power steering system, steering column

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, brake hydraulics, parking brake, ABS (if applicable)

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starter, ignition, lighting, gauges, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel injection system (Bosch L-Jetronic)

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, structural components

Climate Control:

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) system

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel specifications, tire pressure, tire wear diagnosis, wheel alignment procedures.

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil pan, oil filter, oil pressure checks.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tune-ups

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (if applicable)

Repair:

Component removal and installation, assembly and disassembly, adjustments

Overhaul:

Engine, transmission, differential, and other major component overhauls

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical schematic diagrams for all systems

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities

Troubleshooting:

Detailed fault finding procedures, diagnostic flowcharts, and common problem solutions.

Emission Controls:

Information on emission control systems and their maintenance.

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content

Image Resolution:

High-resolution scans for clear diagrams and images

Binding:

N/A (Digital)

Paper:

N/A (Digital)

Coverage Level:

Comprehensive, covering all aspects of vehicle maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting for the specified model.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

1766 cc (1.8 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

89.0 mm x 80.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.3:1

Horsepower:

90 PS (89 hp) @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

140 Nm (103 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm

Injection System:

Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating of 91 or higher recommended)

Ignition Type:

Electronic Ignition

Thermostat Rating:

Typically 88°C (190°F), but check manual for exact spec.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed Manual Transmission

Type:

3-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 3 HP 22)

Clutch:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW Manual Transmission Fluid or equivalent (e.g., ATF Type A Suffix A for older specs, check manual for exact)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4620 mm (181.9 in)

Width:

1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

1420 mm (55.9 in)

Wheelbase:

2795 mm (110.0 in)

Front Track:

1430 mm (56.3 in)

Rear Track:

1470 mm (57.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1300-1350 kg (2866-2976 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1800 kg (3968 lbs)

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 460 liters (16.2 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Not readily available for this specific year/model from standardized agencies like NHTSA/Euro NCAP of the era.

Braking System:

Front ventilated disc brakes, rear solid disc brakes. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on some later E28 models, check specific vehicle.

Steering System:

Recirculating ball steering, power assist standard on most models.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with 4-6 speakers. Aftermarket upgrades are common.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on later E28 models, though less common on the 518i.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system available.

Features:

Basic, focused on mechanical systems rather than digital connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-15,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise recommendation).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on operating conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km).

Timing Belt Replacement:

The M10 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, requiring no periodic replacement unless worn or noisy.

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.0 Liters (4.2 US Quarts) with filter change.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

10W-40 or 15W-40 (check manual for specific climate recommendations).

Coolant Type:

BMW Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Cooling System:

Radiator leaks, water pump failures, thermostat issues, brittle coolant hoses.

Fuel System:

Diaphragm fuel pump failure, clogged fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator issues.

Electrical:

Wire harness degradation (especially at connectors), intermittent gauge function, starter solenoid issues.

Suspension:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends; rear subframe mounting points can fatigue.

Rust:

Common areas include wheel arches, rocker panels, door bottoms, and around window seals.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw History:

BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is a German luxury vehicle manufacturer renowned for its focus on performance, engineering, and driving dynamics since its inception in 1916.

E28 Generation:

The E28 is the second generation of the BMW 5 Series, succeeding the E12. Introduced in 1981, it marked a significant evolution in styling, engineering, and technology.

518I Positioning:

The 518i was the entry-level model in the E28 range, offering the premium BMW experience at a more accessible price point. It was particularly popular in markets with higher taxes on larger displacement engines.

Production Years:

E28 generation produced from 1981 to 1987. The 518i model was available during this period, with variations depending on the market.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany (Dingolfing plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Acclaim:

The E28 generation was critically acclaimed for its driving dynamics, build quality, and progressive design. It solidified BMW's reputation in the executive sedan market.