Segment:
Executive Sedan, Luxury Mid-size Car
Brand Perception:
Known for sporty driving dynamics, build quality, and refined engineering.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Volvo 740/760, Jaguar XJ Series.
Design:
Iconic Chris Bangle-influenced styling, clean lines, driver-focused interior.
Powertrain:
Smooth and powerful M30 inline-six engines, renowned for durability and performance.
Handling:
Excellent balance, sophisticated independent rear suspension, precise steering.
Model Years Covered:
1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, though not explicitly stated, common for workshop manuals of this era)
Engine:
M30B25 engine series (2.5L inline-6), including fuel injection (L-Jetronic/Motronic), ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, and emissions control systems.
Transmission:
Manual (Getrag 260) and Automatic (ZF 4HP22) transmissions, including clutch, driveshaft, differential, and axle assemblies.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (where equipped).
Suspension:
Front strut suspension (MacPherson type), rear semi-trailing arm independent suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, anti-roll bars.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack and pinion, steering column, universal joints.
Electrical:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, wiring harnesses, fuses, relays, instrumentation, electronic control units (ECUs), diagnostics.
Bodywork:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, seals, body trim, rust prevention, underbody coatings.
Interior:
Seating systems, dashboard, climate control (HVAC), sound insulation, interior trim, headliner.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), tune-ups, lubrication schedules, belt and hose inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, fault code interpretation (where applicable for the era), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical systems, including component removal, overhaul, and reinstallation.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, engine clearances, valve timings, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized BMW tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical diagnostics, and body repair.
Configuration:
2.5-liter (2494 cc) SOHC Inline-6
Horsepower:
Approximately 150-170 hp (varies slightly by year and market)
Torque:
Approximately 165-175 lb-ft (varies slightly by year and market)
Type:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic electronic fuel injection.
Spark Plugs:
Recommended: Bosch W8AC or equivalent. Torque: 25 Nm (18 lb-ft).
Engine Oil:
Recommended: 20W-50 or 10W-40 synthetic/mineral blend. Capacity: Approx. 5.5 liters (5.8 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant:
Recommended: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol based. Mixture: 50/50 with distilled water.
Length:
Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1400-1500 kg (3086-3307 lbs) depending on equipment.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2795 mm (110.0 in)
Wheel Size:
Commonly 14-inch or 15-inch alloy or steel wheels.
Tire Size:
Commonly 195/70VR14 or 205/60VR15.
Crash Tests:
No formal standardized crash test ratings available for this era (e.g., NHTSA, Euro NCAP). Designed to meet contemporary safety standards of the early 1980s.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available as an option on later models.
Traction Control:
Not typically available on this model.
Airbags:
Driver airbag became standard on later E28 models (post-1987).
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts in the front and rear.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger compartment, energy-absorbing steering column.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Fuel Filter:
Replace every 30,000-45,000 miles (48,000-72,000 km).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Timing Belt:
This engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, which is generally designed for the life of the engine but requires inspection for wear and proper tension.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, checked and flushed every 2 years.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent.
Engine:
Head gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, coolant leaks from thermostat housing and water pump, valve stem seal wear leading to blue smoke on startup.
Electrical:
Fuse box corrosion, alternator issues, starter motor failure, wiring harness degradation (especially brittle insulation).
Suspension:
Worn rear subframe bushings (common failure leading to clunks and poor handling), worn ball joints and tie rod ends, aged rubber bushings.
Bodywork:
Rust around wheel arches, rocker panels, and battery tray. Door seals can degrade, allowing water ingress.
Fuel System:
Clogged fuel injectors, failing fuel pumps, and issues with the Air Flow Meter (AFM) on L-Jetronic systems.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused, well-engineered vehicles with a strong emphasis on performance and handling.
E28 Introduction:
The E28 generation of the 5 Series was introduced in 1981 as the successor to the E12. It represented a significant evolution in styling and technology.
Facelift:
The E28 received a facelift in 1984 (often referred to as the 'late' E28), which included revised front and rear styling, updated interior trim, and improved aerodynamics.
Production Years:
1981-1988 (though the manual covers up to 1991, likely encompassing late E28 production and potentially early E34 overlap if the manual is generalized).
Key Variants:
Notable variants include the 528e (eta engine), 535i, M535i, and the highly sought-after M5 (E28 S38).
