Era Context:
The BMW 5 Series (E28) represented BMW's executive sedan offering in the 1980s, known for its blend of performance, luxury, and driving dynamics. The 518i was the entry-level model in many markets.
Competitors:
Competed against models like the Mercedes-Benz W123/W124 E-Class, Audi 100, and various Jaguar sedans.
Vehicle Characteristics:
Rear-wheel drive, independent suspension, robust engineering, refined interior for its time, focus on driver engagement.
Value Proposition:
Essential for owners and independent workshops looking to maintain, repair, and troubleshoot the BMW 518i (E28) accurately and efficiently.
Model Years:
1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era, estimated 500+ pages)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (M10B18/M10B18i), fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust
Transmission:
Manual (Getrag 260), Automatic (ZF 4HP22) - removal, installation, overhaul, adjustments
Chassis:
Front and rear suspension, steering, brakes (hydraulic, ABS if applicable to model year/variant), drive shafts
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, instrumentation, ECUs (L-Jetronic, Motronic), fuses, relays
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, HVAC system, heating, ventilation, air conditioning
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, belts, hoses, fluid checks and top-ups, brake inspections
Repair:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common faults and their remedies, fault codes (if applicable to specific ECU)
Diagnostics:
Component testing, sensor diagnosis, fuel system pressure testing, ignition timing checks
Depth:
Comprehensive - covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams
Engine Code:
M10B18 / M10B18i
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.0 mm x 71.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.6:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
Approx. 90-105 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm (depending on fuel system and market)
Torque:
Approx. 103-113 lb-ft @ 3200-3500 rpm (depending on fuel system and market)
System:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)
Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (check manual for specific climate recommendations)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Type:
4-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/5 5-Speed Manual often found as upgrade or later model option)
Type:
3-Speed or 4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22 common)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (check manual for specific BMW fluid recommendations)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent specification for ZF transmissions)
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. 1,300 - 1,400 kg (2866 - 3086 lbs) depending on transmission and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 1,850 kg (4078 lbs)
Crash Test Data:
Data from this era is less standardized than modern testing. Focus was on crumple zones and occupant protection through chassis design.
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear discs. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on later models or as an option.
Steering System:
Recirculating ball steering, optional power steering.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts in front, lap belts in rear (as standard or optional)
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, energy-absorbing steering column.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific conditions.
Filter Replacement:
Oil filter with every oil change; Air filter every 15,000-30,000 miles; Fuel filter every 30,000-60,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 20,000-30,000 miles for standard plugs.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation)
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid or Pentosin CHF 11S (confirm specific type for E28).
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts)
Common Failures:
Corrosion (wheel arches, sills), fuel injector issues, cooling system leaks (hoses, radiator, water pump), aging electrical components (connectors, grounds), fuel pump failure, worn suspension bushings.
Specific M10 Issues:
Valve stem seals, timing chain wear (though generally robust), potential for head gasket issues if overheated.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing sporty luxury sedans with a focus on driving dynamics and engineering excellence since its inception.
E28 Generation:
The E28 was the second generation of the BMW 5 Series, produced from 1981 to 1988 (with some markets receiving it until 1991). It was an evolution of the E12, featuring improved aerodynamics, updated styling, and more advanced mechanicals.
Production Period:
1981 - 1988 (E28)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Dingolfing plant)
Engine Range:
The E28 chassis was offered with a range of engines, from the 4-cylinder 518i and 520i to the 6-cylinder 524td, 525e, 528i, 535i, and the M535i and M5 performance models.
