Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W123/W124, Audi 100/200, Volvo 740/760, Jaguar XJ6
Vehicle Philosophy:
BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, superior handling, robust inline-six engines, quality build
Design Language:
Paul Bracq's distinctive, angular design that defined BMW for the 1980s.
Years Covered:
1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988
Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Additional Types:
Repair Manual, Service Guide
Est Pages:
Varies by original publisher, typically 800-1500 pages for a complete workshop manual.
Engine:
Complete engine mechanicals, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), ignition, exhaust
Transmission:
Manual (Getrag 260) and Automatic (ZF 4HP22) transmission repair and overhaul, clutch, driveshafts
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake discs, pads, calipers, lines, parking brake
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, power steering system, steering gear
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, instrumentation, diagnostic systems (basic)
Body Chassis:
Frame and unibody construction, rust prevention, jacking points, towing information
Interior:
Seat removal, dashboard disassembly, HVAC system servicing
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups), fluid checks and changes
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults and symptoms
Installation:
Replacement procedures for major components (e.g., alternator, starter, fuel pump)
Specifications:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, engine component clearances, alignment specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls
Diagnostics:
In-depth troubleshooting trees and diagnostic flowcharts
NHTSA Ratings:
N/A (pre-dates modern standardized testing)
ABS:
Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Airbags:
Not standard, possibly optional on very late models
Seat Belts:
3-point front, 2-point rear (standard)
Radio:
AM/FM Stereo, Cassette Player (often optional upgraded units like Bavaria C)
Speakers:
Typically 4-6 speaker system
Cruise Control:
Standard or Optional
Not Applicable:
No modern connectivity features (Bluetooth, USB, etc.)
Oil Change:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually (refer to manual for exact interval based on driving conditions)
Major Tune Up:
Approximately every 30,000 miles (spark plugs, distributor cap/rotor, fuel filter)
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH, SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 (consult manual for specific BMW approval and viscosity based on climate)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, front/rear main seals
Cooling System:
Hoses can become brittle, water pump failure, radiator leaks
Electrical Reliability:
Aging wiring harnesses, failing relays, headlight switch issues
Suspension Bushings:
Wear on control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, and subframe bushings
Fuel System:
Clogged fuel injectors, failing fuel pump, leaky fuel pressure regulator
