🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

535i

Chassis Code:

E28

Generation Name:

Second Generation E28

Model Codes Covered:

535i

👋 Introduction

Class:

Executive Sedan

Target Audience:

Affluent professionals seeking performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, responsive steering, and engaging driving experience.

Build Quality:

Exceptional German engineering and build quality, contributing to longevity.

Powertrain:

Smooth and powerful inline-six engine, a hallmark of BMW's engineering.

📋 Manual Details

Model Years Covered:

1985, 1986, 1987, 1988

Page Count:

227

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Comprehensive diagnostics, repair, and overhaul of the M30B34 inline-six engine.

Fuel System:

Bosch Motronic fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, and diagnostic procedures.

Ignition System:

Ignition coil, distributor, spark plugs, timing adjustments, and troubleshooting.

Transmission:

Repair and maintenance of the Getrag 260 5-speed manual and optional ZF 4HP22 automatic transmissions.

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, constant velocity joints, differential, and rear axle assembly.

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, and alignment procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, pump, hoses, and linkage.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, brake lines, calipers, rotors, and pads.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, hoses, and coolant specifications.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, and pipes.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, and accessories.

Climate Control:

HVAC system, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant, and control panel.

Body And Interior:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, seats, trim, and sound deadening.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, and fluid checks.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.

Overhaul:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including torque specifications and clearances.

Diagnostics:

Procedures for diagnosing issues with the engine management, ABS, and electrical systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagrams And Illustrations:

Includes detailed diagrams, exploded views, and schematics for clarity.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Scan Quality:

High-resolution scans for readability and printability.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital - PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital - PDF)

Searchable Text:

Yes, text is embedded and searchable.

Printable Pages:

Yes, the PDF is configured for printing.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M30B34

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-Six (SOHC)

Displacement:

3.4 Liters (3430 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

92 mm x 86 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Horsepower:

211 hp @ 5700 rpm

Torque:

225 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch LE2-Jetronic / Motronic Fuel Injection

Recommended Octane:

91 AKI (87 in certain markets with lower compression variants, but 91 for optimal performance)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 260 5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-Speed Automatic

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic Single Dry Plate (Manual)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (check specific year)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III or equivalent (check specific year)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

189.4 inches (4811 mm)

Width:

69.5 inches (1765 mm)

Height:

55.5 inches (1410 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Curb Weight:

3500 - 3700 lbs (1588 - 1678 kg) (approximate, depending on options)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards:

Designed to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) of the era.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all models.

Airbags:

Driver airbag optional in later years, not standard from 1985.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel front seatbelts, 2-point rear seatbelts (later models may have 3-point rear).

Body Construction:

Reinforced safety cell with crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory cassette player with optional amplifier and premium speaker systems (e.g., HiFi).

Dashboard Features:

Analog gauges, OBC (On-Board Computer) in later models, basic climate control.

ABS:

Standard ABS system with electronic brake force distribution.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Connectivity Features:

None by modern standards; factory radio and speaker system only.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on plug type (e.g., platinum).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km).

Timing Belt Replacement:

N/A (M30 engine uses a timing chain).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40, API SJ or higher (synthetic recommended for high-performance).

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Coolant or ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (ensure compatibility with ABS).

Common Faults:

E-shifter lockout (automatic transmission), fuel distributor leaks (Bosch), distributor seal leaks, cooling system leaks (hose degradation), exhaust manifold cracks, rear subframe mounts fatigue, window regulator failures, seized window motors.

Common Maintenance Items:

Regular inspection and replacement of rubber hoses, vacuum lines, and suspension bushings due to age.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, renowned for performance ('The Ultimate Driving Machine'), luxury, and engineering innovation.

E28 Introduction:

The E28 chassis replaced the E12 and was produced from 1981 to 1988. The 535i variant arrived in 1985, bridging the gap between the 528e and the M5.

535I Development:

The 535i was essentially a higher-performance version of the 533i, featuring the larger 3.4L M30 engine and improved suspension components.

Production Period:

1985-1988 for the 535i model.

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The E28 platform, including the 535i, was frequently featured on Car and Driver's 10 Best list during its production years, lauded for its performance and handling.

General Perception:

Widely regarded as one of the best-driving sedans of its era, a true classic BMW.