Market Segment:
Executive/Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and independent repair shops seeking in-depth knowledge of the E28 5 Series.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ6.
Vehicle Highlights:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, sophisticated inline-six engines, driver-focused interior, and robust build quality.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides critical technical data essential for maintaining and repairing a classic luxury performance sedan, saving owners significant costs.
Engine:
M30B34 3.4L Inline-6, including L-Jetronic fuel injection, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system.
Transmission:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission, ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive, driveshaft, differential, axles.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, anti-roll bars.
Steering:
Hydraulic power steering system, steering rack, steering column.
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Electrical:
12V electrical system, alternator, starter motor, battery, fuse box, wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, central locking.
Body:
Body shell repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, sunroof.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, heater core, evaporator, refrigerant, blower motor, climate controls.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults across all major systems, fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head removal and installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and bearing replacement, valve timing.
Transmission Service:
Clutch replacement (manual), automatic transmission fluid changes and filter replacement, seal replacement.
Brake System Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake line replacement, ABS system diagnostics and repair.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring harness repair, component testing, diagnosis of lighting, starting, charging, and accessory circuits.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Component replacement (shocks, struts, bushings, tie rods), alignment specifications.
Body And Trim Repair:
Door panel removal, glass replacement, sealing, panel alignment.
Fuel System Diagnosis:
Fuel pump testing, injector cleaning and testing, fuel pressure checks.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 30,000 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Inspect for leaks, change if contaminated. Automatic: Every 50,000-60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (depending on climate). Synthetic 5W-40 or 10W-40 is highly recommended.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 US quarts (6.1 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (low viscosity recommended)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW Synchromesh Fluid or GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel distributor issues, ABS sensor failures, seized sway bar links, door seal degradation, headliner sagging.
Engine Specific:
M30 engine can develop oil leaks from the front and rear main seals. Valve stem seals can wear, leading to oil consumption and blue smoke on startup.
Electrical Specific:
Corrosion on electrical connectors, especially ground points. OBC (On-Board Computer) can develop display issues.
