🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

528i

Year:

1986

Product Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

👋 Introduction

Positioning Statement:

The 1986 BMW 528i (E28 generation) represented a pinnacle of German engineering and luxury sport sedans, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and build quality that defined its segment.

Competitors:

Competed against vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz 300E, Audi 100, and certain American luxury sedans of the era. The 528i was distinguished by its superior handling, driver engagement, and the characteristic BMW inline-six engine.

Handling:

Renowned for its sophisticated independent suspension system, providing excellent road holding and driver feedback.

Powertrain:

Powered by the robust and smooth M30 inline-six engine, delivering strong performance and a distinctive exhaust note.

Build Quality:

Exemplified BMW's commitment to quality construction, featuring durable materials and precise assembly.

Utility:

Provides mechanics and owners with the necessary technical data and procedures to maintain and repair the 528i, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full Service and Repair Instructions

Target Audience:

Professional Mechanics and DIY Enthusiasts

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (Specific count not provided, but described as comprehensive)

Type:

Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Printed (typical for this era workshop manuals, potentially also available as PDF scan)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, performance tuning, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery, emission controls

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starter system, charging system, fuel injection control (L-Jetronic/Motronic), diagnostics

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic transmission service, overhaul, troubleshooting, fluid specifications

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment procedures, shock absorbers, springs, bushings

Steering:

Steering gear, power steering system, tie rods, steering linkage, troubleshooting

Brakes:

Brake system components (master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pads), bleeding procedures, ABS (if equipped), parking brake

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, lighting system, instrument cluster, power accessories, fuses and relays, battery system

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, chassis lubrication, corrosion protection

Heating And Air Conditioning:

HVAC system components, refrigerant handling, troubleshooting

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault identification

Component Repair:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all major components

Diagnostics:

Engine codes, sensor testing, actuator testing, electrical system testing methods

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque specifications, clearances, measurements for all critical components

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

If digital, typically PDF; if printed, bound pages.

Print Quality Details:

Professional print quality for clarity of diagrams and text (for printed versions).

Binding Type Details:

Durable binding (e.g., spiral-bound or perfect-bound) suitable for workshop use (for printed versions).

Paper Type Details:

High-quality, durable paper stock to withstand workshop environments (for printed versions).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M30B28

Engine Type:

SOHC Inline 6-cylinder

Displacement:

2.8 liters (2788 cc)

Horsepower Rating:

Approximately 181 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque Rating:

Approximately 224 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Injection System:

Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic (depending on exact production date and market)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium)

Ignition System:

Electronic Ignition with Knock Control

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed Manual

Transmission Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch

Differential:

Limited-slip differential (optional)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 189.4 in (4811 mm)

Width:

Approx. 68.7 in (1745 mm)

Height:

Approx. 54.7 in (1390 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.3 in (2649 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3300-3500 lbs (1497-1588 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by configuration, consult specific vehicle data.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Modern crash safety standards were less stringent than today. The E28 featured a robust unibody structure with crumple zones.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available as an option on later models or specific markets.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for front occupants, standard.

Headrests:

Adjustable front and rear headrests.

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column for improved impact protection.

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional upgrades available from BMW.

Onboard Computer:

Optional On-Board Computer (OBC) providing basic trip information, diagnostics, and warnings. Often prone to display segment failure.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models, a significant comfort feature for the era.

Phone System:

No integrated connectivity in the modern sense. Aftermarket radio upgrades with Bluetooth or aux inputs are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended every 30,000 miles or as per manual specifications. Use correct gap.

Timing Belt Replacement:

The M30 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, which is designed for the life of the engine but may require tensioner adjustment or guide replacement over time.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 depending on climate. Consult manual for precise recommendations. Synthetic oils are often beneficial.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (typically blue or green for this era) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90). Check manual for precise specification.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid (ATF). Consult manual for specific type.

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW approved hydraulic fluid or Pentosin CHF 11S (check manual, as systems could vary).

Engine:

Head gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, timing chain guide wear, fuel injector failure (Bosch systems).

Cooling System:

Radiator leaks, water pump failure, thermostat sticking, hose degradation.

Suspension:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, shock absorber fatigue.

Electrical:

Corrosion in wiring harnesses, failing voltage regulators, starter motor issues, common failure of the instrument cluster illumination and OBC (On-Board Computer).

Rust:

Susceptible to rust, particularly in wheel arches, rocker panels, and around the sunroof, depending on climate and maintenance history.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's heritage is rooted in performance, engineering excellence, and the 'ultimate driving machine' ethos, a philosophy clearly embodied by the E28 5 Series.

E28 Generation:

The E28 was the second generation of the BMW 5 Series, produced from 1981 to 1988. It evolved from the E12 with significant improvements in aerodynamics, chassis dynamics, and powertrain technology.

528I Positioning:

The 528i served as a mid-range model within the E28 lineup, offering a balance of the potent M30 engine with a comfortable and well-appointed interior, slotting below the 535i and the performance-oriented M5.

Production Years:

E28 generation: 1981-1988. Specific 528i variants and years vary by market.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Germany, with some assembly possibly occurring in other BMW global facilities.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver:

The E28 generation 5 Series, including models like the 528e and 535i, was frequently featured on Car and Driver's Ten Best lists in its production run, praised for its driving dynamics and engineering.

Overall Reputation:

The 528i (and the E28 chassis overall) is widely regarded as a classic modern BMW, celebrated for its balance of performance, luxury, and timeless design. It is a sought-after model for enthusiasts and a capable daily driver when well-maintained.