Vehicle Class:
Executive/Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
Automotive enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops specializing in classic BMWs.
Competitors 1980S:
Mercedes-Benz W123/W124, Audi 5000, Volvo 240/740, Cadillac DeVille, Lincoln Town Car.
Vehicle Philosophy:
Focus on driving dynamics, build quality, and understated luxury, a hallmark of BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential information for owners and technicians to maintain, diagnose, and repair the E28 5 Series, preserving its performance and longevity.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul, timing, valve adjustments, piston/ring replacement, crankshaft, camshaft, oil pump, cylinder head, block.
Engine Management:
L-Jetronic fuel injection system diagnosis and repair, ignition system, ECU troubleshooting.
Transmission Manual:
Overhaul and repair of 5-speed manual gearbox, clutch assembly, driveshafts.
Transmission Automatic:
Diagnosis and repair of ZF 4HP22 automatic transmission, fluid service, valve body troubleshooting.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair, hydraulic system bleeding.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack, tie rods, pump.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, fuses, relays.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, heater core, fan operation.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, heat shields, mounting hardware.
Body And Chassis:
Panel repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, trim removal and installation, rust prevention.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems.
Engine Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for complete engine disassembly, inspection, part replacement, and reassembly.
Brake Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake line replacement, bleeding procedures.
Transmission Service:
Fluid and filter changes for automatic transmissions, clutch replacement for manual transmissions.
Electrical Component Replacement:
Alternator, starter, battery, ignition coil, fuel injector replacement.
Suspension Component Replacement:
Shock absorber, strut, ball joint, control arm replacement.
Tune Up Procedures:
Spark plug gap and replacement, ignition timing adjustment, fuel filter replacement.
Heating And Air Conditioning:
Component diagnosis and replacement (compressor, evaporator, heater core), refrigerant handling (general guidance).
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and wiring diagrams.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Filter Replacement Interval:
Oil filter with every oil change. Air filter and fuel filter typically every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km), depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 recommended for many climates. Refer to manual for specific grade.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., BMW blue or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent (check manual for specific ZF fluid type).
Common Wear Items:
Fuel injectors, fuel pump, water pump, thermostat, control arm bushings, exhaust hangers, idle control valve, vacuum leaks.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corrosion in fuse box, aging wiring harnesses, faulty instrument cluster (especially illumination), OBC (On-Board Computer) issues.
Engine Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, front and rear main seals are common leak points due to age.
Preventative Maintenance Focus:
Regularly check vacuum lines for cracks, maintain cooling system integrity, and ensure proper lubrication of all components.
Bmw Brand Philosophy:
Longstanding reputation for engineering excellence, performance-oriented vehicles, and a premium driving experience.
E28 Introduction:
Introduced in 1981 as the successor to the highly successful E12 5 Series, featuring improved aerodynamics, updated styling, and enhanced technology.
E28 Updates:
Facelift in 1984 brought revised aerodynamics (front air dam, rear spoiler), updated interior trim, and engine management system enhancements (e.g., Motronic).
Production Period:
1981-1988
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing Plant), South Africa, and assembly in other locations.
