Positioning:
The definitive DIY and professional guide for the BMW E28 5 Series owner and mechanic.
Value Proposition:
Empowers users to perform repairs and maintenance efficiently, saving time and money.
Comparison To Official Manuals:
Offers comparable detail and accuracy to factory service manuals, often with clearer diagnostic flowcharts.
Detail Level:
Factory-quality, highly detailed instructions.
Accessibility:
Instant download format for immediate access to repair information.
Usability:
Designed for both novice DIYers and experienced technicians.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system (belts/chains), lubrication system.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic, Motronic), ignition system, sensors, actuators, emission controls, ECU diagnostics.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission repair, clutch system, driveline components (driveshafts, CV joints).
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, steering linkage.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (if equipped), brake discs, calipers, pads, lines, master cylinder, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter motor, alternator, battery, lighting system, instrumentation, power windows, locks, mirrors.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, trim, rust prevention, corrosion repair.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, belt inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components.
Component Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, carburetors (if applicable), and other major components.
Specification Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, timing marks, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values.
Diagnostics:
Engine performance diagnostics, electrical system testing, HVAC system troubleshooting.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete overhauls and diagnostics.
Level:
Professional Technician Level
Engine Family:
M30 (inline-six)
Engine Variants:
528i (2.8L M30B28), 535i (3.4L M30B34)
528I Horsepower:
Approx. 181 hp (DIN) @ 5800 rpm
528I Torque:
Approx. 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) @ 4200 rpm
535I Horsepower:
Approx. 211 hp (DIN) @ 5400 rpm
535I Torque:
Approx. 290 Nm (214 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm
Injection System:
Bosch L-Jetronic (early models), Bosch Motronic (later models, especially M30B34)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Premium)
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Timing Drive:
Single Row Timing Chain (M30)
Length:
Approx. 4,840 mm (190.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,738 mm (68.4 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,415 mm (55.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,794 mm (110.0 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,400 - 1,550 kg (3086 - 3417 lbs), depending on engine and options
Crash Test Performance:
Early 1980s safety standards; robust chassis design for its era.
ABS:
Optional on some models, standard on later high-performance variants (e.g., M535i, M5).
Traction Control:
Not typically available on E28 models.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag optional on later models, not standard.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear.
Chassis Design:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Transmission Fluid:
Manual: Inspect at 30,000 miles, change as needed. Automatic: Change every 30,000-60,000 miles (check manual).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Timing Belt Chain:
M30 engines use a chain, generally requires inspection for wear, not replacement like a belt.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 recommended (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 or 75W-80 synthetic gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent (ZF fluid specifications may vary).
Rust Corrosion:
Common in wheel arches, rocker panels, door bottoms, and around the windshield.
Engine Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, front and rear main seals.
Cooling System:
Aging hoses, water pump failures, radiator leaks, thermostat issues.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump degradation, injector clogging (especially with age), fuel accumulator issues (L-Jetronic).
Electrical:
Fuse box corrosion, relay failures, alternator brushes, headlight switch issues, frayed wiring harnesses.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear and tear on control arm bushings, sway bar links, and subframe bushings leading to noise and poor handling.
Instrument Cluster:
Pixelated displays, dead pixels, odometer failure (common in later models).
Bmw Philosophy:
Known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', emphasizing performance, engineering, and driver engagement.
Predecessor:
BMW 5 Series E12
Successor:
BMW 5 Series E34
Key Design Elements:
Iconic 'Hofmeister kink', kidney grille, upright greenhouse, driver-oriented dashboard.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing), South Africa, Mexico, Thailand.
Production Volume:
Over 600,000 units produced during its lifecycle.
M Model:
M5 (E28) - introduced in 1984, featuring the M88/3 engine, a development of the M1 supercar engine.
M Model Engine:
3.5L M88/3 inline-six, producing approx. 286 hp.
Performance Awards:
Consistently praised in automotive press for its driving dynamics, balance, and build quality.
Safety Recognition:
While specific crash ratings from modern bodies are not applicable, its robust construction was a hallmark of BMW safety for its time.
Reliability Perception:
Generally considered reliable with proper maintenance; common issues are age-related wear and tear.
Certification Type:
Factory quality standards.