Positioning:
The E28 generation represented BMW's commitment to performance, luxury, and driver engagement in the executive sedan segment.
Competitors:
Competed with luxury sedans from Mercedes-Benz (W124 E-Class), Audi (100/200), and Cadillac (Seville).
Features:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, powerful inline-six engines, and sophisticated engineering.
Value:
This manual empowers owners and technicians to maintain and repair the 535i E28 to factory standards, preserving its performance and value.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing components.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), ignition system, emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch, driveshafts, differential.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, brake calipers, rotors, pads, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering system.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting system, instrumentation, fuses, relays.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, windows, locks, body repairs, corrosion prevention.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, injectors.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, common problems and their solutions, fault finding.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.
Rebuilds:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission overhauls.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and symptom-based troubleshooting.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic adjustments to complete overhauls.
Searchability:
Text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval.
Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, suitable for printing.
Type:
Not applicable (digital format)
Type:
Not applicable (digital format)
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated inline-six cylinder
Displacement:
3.4 liters (3210 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 182 hp @ 5500 rpm (US Spec)
Torque:
Approx. 214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (US Spec)
Injection System:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Type:
Distributor-based electronic ignition
Type:
Getrag 265 5-speed manual transmission
Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch (manual)
Gear Ratios Manual:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 3.71, 2.25, 1.41, 1.00, 0.81 for 5-speed)
Gear Ratios Automatic:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 2.48, 1.48, 1.00, 0.72 for 4-speed)
Length:
Approx. 191.1 inches (4854 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.5 inches (1765 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2650 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3500-3700 lbs (1588-1678 kg), depending on options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to manual for specific GVWR
Crash Test Results:
Limited official ratings from this era; known for robust construction.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (optional on some models)
Airbags:
Driver airbag became standard later in the E28 lifecycle, not standard across all 1985-1988 models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Audio System:
Factory premium sound system options available, often with cassette player and analog tuning.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (ACC - Automatic Cabin Control).
ABS:
Available ABS system on later models enhances braking safety.
Connectivity:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB; analog systems.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to manual for specific recommendation)
Spark Plugs:
Refer to manual, often at 30,000-60,000 mile intervals
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as specified in manual
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual, typically 20W-50 or 10W-40 synthetic blend for older BMWs; BMW High Performance SAE 20W-50 is a common recommendation.
Coolant:
BMW Blue (Glysantin G48 equivalent) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (hoses, water pump, radiator), fuel distributor leaks (M-Jetronic), idle control issues, front suspension bushings, rear subframe mounts, rust (wheel wells, rocker panels).
Valve Adjustment:
Periodic valve lash adjustment is typically required for the M30 engine.
