Segment:
Luxury Mid-Size Sedan
Target Audience:
Performance-oriented luxury car buyers seeking advanced engineering and driving dynamics.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ6
Vehicle Philosophy:
The E28 5 Series represented BMW's core values of 'Ultimate Driving Machine' with a focus on balance, power delivery, and sophisticated handling.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential, detailed information for owners and technicians to maintain and repair the 535i (E28) effectively, ensuring longevity and performance.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Drivetrain, Transmission
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes, Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instruments & Controls, Engine Management Electronics, Body Electronics
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Climate Control System
Maintenance:
Routine checks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid top-offs, spark plug service
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault finding, common issue diagnosis
Repair:
Component removal and installation, adjustments, rebuild procedures
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, wiring diagrams, sensor testing, module testing
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values
Depth:
Comprehensive - covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
3.4 Liters (3430 cc)
Horsepower:
182 hp @ 5500 rpm (U.S. spec)
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (U.S. spec)
Injection System:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Coolant Type:
BMW approved coolant (e.g., Glysantin G05 or similar ethylene glycol based, phosphate-free)
Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 (check manual for specific ambient temperature recommendations)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change
Transmission Type:
Getrag 265 5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission
Manual Transmission Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: 4.03, 2nd: 2.31, 3rd: 1.44, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.81 - approximate typical ratios)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent ATF spec)
NHTSA Crash Test Results:
Data for this era is limited by modern standards. Emphasis on passive safety features of the time.
Brakes:
Four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated front, solid rear), ABS optional/standard on later models.
Suspension:
Independent front suspension (MacPherson struts), Semi-trailing arm rear suspension, Anti-roll bars.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard on later models (introduced during the E28 production run).
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts front and rear, pretensioners for front belts.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, energy-absorbing crumple zones.
Audio System:
Period-appropriate premium sound systems (e.g., BMW Bavaria C III cassette stereo), often with graphic equalizers and amplifier options.
Navigation:
Not available for this model year.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional or standard depending on the specific model year and market.
Bluetooth:
Not available.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (whichever comes first), depending on driving conditions. Manual specifies intervals based on service indicator or mileage.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual transmission: Inspect and change as needed. Automatic transmission: Typically around 50,000-100,000 miles or per service indicator, but early fluid changes are often recommended for longevity.
Spark Plugs:
Refer to manual, typically 20,000-30,000 miles for original equipment.
Coolant:
BMW Blue or Pink coolant (ethylene glycol based, silicate-free recommended, e.g., G05)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid (consult manual for exact specification)
Engine Gaskets:
Common leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal (oil seal).
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, and heater core can be points of failure. Plastic expansion tanks can become brittle.
Fuel System:
Fuel accumulator, fuel pump, and injector seals can degrade over time.
Electrical System:
Wiring harness degradation, particularly in the engine bay, and aging ZKE (body control module) can cause various electrical gremlins.
Suspension:
Worn bushings (control arm, trailing arm), ball joints, and strut mounts are common wear items.
Brand Focus:
BMW has a long history of producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles, renowned for engineering, handling, and driver engagement.
E28 Introduction:
The E28 generation of the 5 Series succeeded the E12 and was produced from 1981 to 1988. It represented a refinement of the previous generation with updated styling and technology.
E28 535I Significance:
The 535i, equipped with the powerful M30 engine, was a flagship model, embodying BMW's commitment to performance and luxury in the mid-size segment.
Production Period:
1981-1988
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (primarily Dingolfing)
Automotive Press Reviews:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and performance. Often cited as a benchmark in its class.
Consumer Reports:
Generally well-regarded for performance and durability when properly maintained, though repair costs could be higher than domestic competitors.
Safety Certifications:
Meets all US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for its production era.
