🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

518i

Chassis Code:

E28

Generation Name:

First Generation E28

Production Years:

1985-1988

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Professional mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, and BMW collectors seeking in-depth repair and maintenance information for the E28 518i.

Value Proposition:

Provides dealership-level technical information, empowering users to perform complex repairs and maintenance accurately and efficiently.

Comparison To Alternatives:

Superior to generic Haynes or Chilton manuals due to its official workshop origin, offering greater detail, accuracy, and specific BMW technical data.

Authenticity:

Identical to manuals provided to official BMW dealerships, ensuring the highest level of accuracy and comprehensiveness.

Diagnostic Focus:

Emphasizes systematic troubleshooting, enabling users to diagnose and fix issues effectively.

Visual Guidance:

Rich with detailed diagrams and illustrations crucial for understanding complex procedures and component locations.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete workshop service and repair for BMW 518i (E28) models from 1985 to 1988.

Page Count:

Extensive (Exact count not provided, described as detailed instructions and step-by-step diagrams for all workshop procedures).

Manual Type:

Professional Workshop Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English (Implied by description and common availability of BMW manuals).

Format:

Downloadable (Digital format, likely PDF).

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanicals, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control.

Drivetrain Systems:

Transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differentials, axles.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension (MacPherson struts, independent rear suspension), steering system (rack and pinion), power steering.

Brake Systems:

Front and rear disc brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped on later models).

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, dashboard controls, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, ECU.

Body Chassis:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, bumpers, chassis components, corrosion protection.

HVAC Systems:

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

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, belt adjustments, brake pad replacement, general inspections.

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, bodywork repair.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, fault finding for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues.

Disassembly Assembly:

Step-by-step guides for component removal and reinstallation with torque specifications.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering all workshop procedures from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, identical to dealer documentation.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting guides for identifying and resolving common and complex faults.

Diagrams Illustrations:

High-quality, step-by-step diagrams and illustrations for visual guidance on all procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (assumed for downloadability, enabling searchability and bookmarking).

Quality Description:

Professional quality, mirroring original dealer workshop manuals. High-resolution diagrams and clear text.

Binding:

Not applicable for downloadable format. If a physical product were sold, it would typically be a professionally bound book.

Paper Quality:

Not applicable for downloadable format. Original manuals would use durable paper suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M10B18 (typically)

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated

Displacement:

1.8 liters (1766 cc)

Horsepower Output:

Approx. 90-99 PS (66-73 kW) depending on market and tuning.

Torque Output:

Approx. 140-145 Nm (103-107 lb-ft) depending on market and tuning.

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic or LE-Jetronic fuel injection.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (RON 95/98 recommended).

Ignition Type:

Electronic ignition (e.g., Bremi or Bosch).

Cooling Method:

Liquid-cooled, thermostatically controlled fan.

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.25 liters (4.5 US quarts) with filter change.

Oil Viscosity:

Typically 10W-40 or 15W-40, depending on climate and specific BMW recommendations.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed manual transmission (Getrag 245).

Transmission Type Optional:

3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (ZF 3HP22).

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically operated.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 GL-4 gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III (or equivalent) ATF fluid.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 in)

Width:

Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs) depending on equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1800-1900 kg (3968-4189 lbs).

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 480 liters (16.9 cubic feet).

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Info:

Specific crash test ratings for the 1985-1988 518i E28 are not readily available in modern formats, but the E28 chassis was known for its structural integrity for its era.

ABS:

Optional on later E28 models, including some 518i variants. The manual will detail its function and maintenance if equipped.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts in the front, two-point lap belts in the rear.

Head Restraints:

Front head restraints standard.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones front and rear, side impact protection beams.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player. Options for upgraded speakers and amplifier. Manual will cover basic diagnostics and component replacement.

ABS:

As noted in safety, ABS was an optional feature. The manual will detail its operation and troubleshooting.

Diagnostic Ports:

Proprietary BMW diagnostic connectors for engine management and ABS systems (if equipped). Manual will detail connector pinouts and basic diagnostic procedures.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. The manual will specify exact intervals.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Generally around 30,000-40,000 km (20,000-25,000 miles). Manual will specify correct plug type and gap.

Timing Belt Chain:

The M10B18 engine features a timing chain, which is designed for the life of the engine but requires inspection for wear and tensioner function.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify which is most appropriate for ABS if equipped.

Engine Common Issues:

Idle control valve issues, vacuum leaks, injector seal leaks, coolant leaks from the thermostat housing or hoses, oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan.

Electrical Common Issues:

Corroded grounds, failing dashboard instruments, headlamp switch issues, aging wiring harnesses.

Suspension Common Issues:

Worn control arm bushings, worn ball joints, sagging springs, worn shock absorbers.

Rust Prone Areas:

Wheel arches, rocker panels, door bottoms, trunk lid edges, battery tray area.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for building sporty, driver-focused sedans with excellent handling and engineering.

E28 Lineage:

Successor to the E12 and predecessor to the E34. The E28 represented a significant advancement in BMW's mid-size luxury sedan offerings, emphasizing performance, comfort, and technology.

518I Positioning:

The 518i was the entry-level model in many markets, offering BMW quality and driving dynamics at a more accessible price point, often targeting economy-conscious buyers.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily produced at BMW's Dingolfing plant in Germany. CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits were also exported for assembly in various international locations.

Production Volume:

The E28 series overall saw significant production numbers, with the 518i being a popular variant in its target markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E28 Series Accolades:

While specific awards for the 518i E28 aren't widely publicized, the E28 generation was generally praised by automotive press for its excellent handling, build quality, and refinement, contributing to BMW's strong reputation in the luxury sedan segment during the 1980s.