🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

518i

Year:

1987

Chassis Code:

E28

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW 518i (E28) was positioned as an entry-level model in BMW's executive sedan lineup, offering a balance of performance and economy for its era.

Competitors:

Competed with other mid-size luxury sedans such as the Mercedes-Benz W124 200E/230E, Audi 100, and Jaguar XJ6.

Vehicle Appeal:

Known for its understated luxury, refined driving dynamics, build quality, and efficient yet capable M10 engine.

Value Proposition:

Essential for owners and technicians seeking to maintain, repair, or restore the 1987 BMW 518i (E28), providing factory-level accuracy and detail.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics

Estimated Pages:

600+

Type:

Workshop Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

M10B18 (4-cylinder, single overhead camshaft, Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection)

Engine Management:

Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system diagnosis and repair, ignition system, emissions control

Transmission:

Manual (Getrag 260), Automatic (ZF 4HP22)

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts

Suspension:

Front: MacPherson struts, independent, control arms. Rear: Semi-trailing arms, independent, coil springs, shock absorbers

Brakes:

Front: Ventilated discs. Rear: Solid discs. ABS (optional, depending on market and specific build).

Steering:

Recirculating ball steering system, power steering system (if equipped)

Electrical:

Full wiring diagrams, alternator, starter, battery, lighting, instrumentation, accessories, fuse box layout, relays

Body:

Body shell, doors, hood, trunk, glass, body panels, interior trim, seals

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (if equipped)

Chassis:

Frame, subframes, mounts, body reinforcements

Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid change, tune-up procedures, belt inspection/replacement

Repair:

Engine overhaul (top-end and bottom-end), transmission rebuild, clutch replacement, brake caliper overhaul, suspension component replacement, steering rack repair, fuel system component replacement, starter/alternator repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts for common problems, diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical faults, HVAC issues

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for various systems

Specifications:

Torque values for all fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications

Depth:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers full rebuilds and in-depth diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable for quick access to information

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M10B18

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1766 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

89.0 mm x 71.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1 (typical)

Horsepower:

90 PS (89 bhp; 66 kW) at 5400 rpm (European spec)

Torque:

140 Nm (103 lb-ft) at 3250 rpm (European spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (RON 91-95)

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition (Bosch)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (BMW recommends BMW coolant or equivalent)

Oil Type:

API SG/CD, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific climate recommendations)

Oil Capacity:

4.5 Liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter change

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed Manual (Getrag 260)

Type:

3-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22) - Likely optional

Manual Gear Ratios:

Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: 4.01:1, 2nd: 2.38:1, 3rd: 1.48:1, 4th: 1.00:1, Reverse: 3.17:1)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4620 mm (181.9 in)

Width:

1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

1415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase:

2795 mm (110.0 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1340-1420 kg (2954-3131 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1870 kg (4123 lbs)

Standard Tire Size:

195/70 R14

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120

Fuel Tank Capacity:

70 Liters (18.5 US gallons)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Specific NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings for this model year may be limited; focus is on mechanical safety systems covered in the manual.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - check specific vehicle for availability.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts

Headrests:

Front and rear headrests

Body Construction:

Unitized steel body with integral safety cage construction.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player, basic speaker system.

Controls:

Manual climate controls, basic dashboard instrumentation.

ABS Availability:

Optional ABS system, providing advanced braking control for its time.

Original Connectivity:

N/A (no modern connectivity features like Bluetooth, USB, etc.)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (typical recommendation, refer to manual for precise interval).

Air Filter:

Inspect every 20,000 km (12,000 miles), replace as needed or every 40,000 km (24,000 miles).

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles) depending on plug type (refer to manual for exact spec).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 40,000 km (24,000 miles)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent

Common Problems:

Fuel distributor issues, fuel pump wear, vacuum leaks, rust (especially around wheel arches and rocker panels), aging rubber components (bushings, hoses), instrument cluster failure, sunroof drain blockage, blower motor resistor failure.

Oil Filter Example:

Mann-Filter W930/20 or equivalent (specific part number to be confirmed in manual)

Air Filter Example:

Mann-Filter C27130 or equivalent

Spark Plug Example:

Bosch W8AC or Champion N9YCC (check manual for precise spec)

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

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

E28 Generation:

The E28 generation of the 5 Series was produced from 1981 to 1988, succeeding the E12 and being succeeded by the E34. It was a significant evolution in BMW's executive sedan design.

Manufacturing Period:

1981-1988

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

518I Introduction:

The 518i served as the base model for many markets, offering a more accessible entry into the 5 Series range.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Accolades:

While specific awards for the 518i model might not be widely documented, the E28 generation as a whole was highly regarded for its engineering, build quality, and driving experience, often praised by automotive journalists of the era.