Target Audience:
Owners and independent mechanics seeking in-depth repair and maintenance information for the E28 518i
Competitors 1981:
Mercedes-Benz W123, Audi 100, Jaguar XJ, Volvo 240
Vehicle Strengths:
Renowned BMW driving dynamics, robust engineering, luxurious interior for its class
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to maintain and repair their classic BMW effectively, saving on dealership costs and preserving vehicle value
Models Covered:
All 518i variants of the E28 generation
Engines Covered:
M10B18 (1.8L inline-4)
Transmissions Covered:
4-speed manual, 5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic
Trim Levels Covered:
All applicable trim levels
Estimated Page Count:
500+
Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Engine:
Complete overhaul, tuning, fuel injection (L-Jetronic), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, clutch, driveshafts, differentials
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, disc and drum brake servicing, parking brake, ABS (if applicable to later E28 models, though unlikely for 1981 518i)
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Steering gear, power steering system (if equipped), tie rods, steering column
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instruments, fuses, relays, diagnostic procedures
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, locks, seals, interior trim, corrosion protection
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system servicing (if equipped)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and top-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems, fault finding procedures for all major systems
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation
Diagnostics:
Engine performance diagnostics, electrical system troubleshooting, emission control diagnosis
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Quality:
High-resolution scans for clear readability, searchable text (OCR'd)
Print Readiness:
Optimized for printing, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual
Binding For Print:
Digital format allows for various binding options upon printing (e.g., coil bound, stapled)
Recommended Paper For Print:
Standard copy paper or heavier weight for workshop durability
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated
Displacement:
1766 cc (1.8 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
89.0 mm x 71.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 or 8.8:1 (depending on market/tune)
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 8 valves
Horsepower Net:
90 PS (66 kW; 89 hp) at 5500 rpm
Torque Net:
140 Nm (103 lb-ft) at 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91 or higher)
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed manual Getrag 245
Transmission Type Optional 1:
5-speed manual Getrag 260
Transmission Type Optional 2:
3-speed ZF 3HP22 automatic
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, single dry plate
Final Drive Ratio Manual:
3.45:1 (typical)
Final Drive Ratio Automatic:
3.25:1 or 3.45:1 (typical)
Audio System Options:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional premium sound systems
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature), warning lights
Connectivity Features:
None (pre-digital era)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 (API SF or SG rated)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (e.g., BMW Part No. 83 19 2 210 834)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II (or equivalent)
Common E28 Issues:
Rust (wheel wells, rocker panels, battery tray), cooling system leaks (hoses, radiator), fuel distributor issues (L-Jetronic), worn suspension bushings, differential seal leaks
Specific 518I Issues:
M10 engine can be prone to valve seat recession if running on lower octane fuel without additives; early L-Jetronic can be sensitive to vacuum leaks.
E28 Generation Accolades:
Generally praised for driving dynamics and build quality by automotive press of the era.
Consumer Reports Era Sentiment:
Consistently rated as a well-engineered and reliable vehicle, though higher maintenance costs compared to some competitors.
