🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

528i

Year:

1986

Chassis Code:

E28

Engine Code:

M30B28 (early models), M30B27 (later US models, often designated as 'eta')

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Sedan

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, restoration specialists

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100, Volvo 240/740 Series

Vehicle Strengths:

Performance, handling, build quality, distinctive styling

Manual Value Proposition:

Enables owners to maintain and repair a complex, sophisticated European vehicle with confidence.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full Service, Repair, Rebuild, Refurbish, Restoration

Estimated Pages:

1000+

Type:

Full Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, assumed searchable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine overhaul, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic transmission repair, clutch service, drive axles

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic and mechanical components)

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, electrical component testing, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation

Body:

Body panel repair, interior trim, seals, windows, doors, convertible top (if applicable)

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, fault finding for mechanical and electrical issues

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems

Rebuilds:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures with specifications

Restoration:

Guidance for refurbishing and restoring original components and appearance

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Assumed)

Searchability:

Searchable text (Assumed)

Printability:

Printable pages (Assumed)

Binding:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-6 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2788 cc) or 2.7 Liters (2693 cc) for 'eta'

Bore X Stroke:

2.8L: 86 mm x 80 mm; 2.7L: 84 mm x 81 mm

Compression Ratio:

2.8L: 9.0:1; 2.7L 'eta': 11.0:1 (often debated/varied by market)

Valve Train:

SOHC, 2 Valves per Cylinder

Horsepower:

2.8L: Approx. 171 hp @ 5800 rpm; 2.7L 'eta': Approx. 121 hp @ 4800 rpm (US Spec)

Torque:

2.8L: Approx. 170 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm; 2.7L 'eta': Approx. 165 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (US Spec)

Induction:

Bosch Motronic Fuel Injection (L-Jetronic or LH-Jetronic variants)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)

Oil Capacity:

6.9 Quarts (6.5 Liters) with filter

Recommended Oil:

SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50 API SG (Consult manual for specific BMW approval)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed Manual (Getrag 265/5 or similar)

Type:

4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)

Clutch:

Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch

Manual Fluid:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90)

Automatic Fluid:

Dexron III ATF (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 187.2 inches (4755 mm)

Width:

Approx. 68.9 inches (1750 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.3 inches (2650 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3100-3300 lbs (1400-1500 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4200 lbs (1900 kg)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm

Standard Tire Size:

205/60 VR 14 or 205/55 VR 15 (depending on trim/options)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

N/A (Not tested by NHTSA in modern standards)

Braking System:

Front: Ventilated Discs; Rear: Solid Discs

ABS:

Optional (Bosch ABS II)

Airbags:

None (Standard for the era)

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia reel front, 3-point lap/diagonal rear

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Period-appropriate AM/FM Stereo, Cassette Player, optional CD Player

Climate Control:

Manual or Automatic Climate Control (optional)

Cruise Control:

Standard or Optional

Connectivity Features:

N/A (Pre-modern connectivity era)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6-12 months (traditional interval)

Major Service Points:

Timing belt (if applicable, M30 is chain-driven), spark plugs, coolant flush, brake fluid flush

Coolant:

50/50 mix of BMW Blue Antifreeze or equivalent ethylene glycol coolant

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II/III

Common Problems:

Fuel distributor issues, idle control valve problems, cooling system leaks (hoses, water pump), rear subframe mounting points, rust (especially around wheel arches and sills), aging fuel lines and vacuum hoses.

Oil Filter Example:

Mann-Filter W940/1, Mahle OX 34

Air Filter Example:

Mann-Filter C32102/1, Mahle LX 25

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for sporty sedans and inline-6 engines.

E28 Development:

Successor to the E12, evolved from the 525i/535i models, known for improved aerodynamics and chassis dynamics.

Production Years:

1981-1988 (E28 platform)

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (Dingolfing Plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Contemporaneous Awards:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its handling, build quality, and blend of performance and comfort. Often featured in 'best of' lists for its era.