Target Audience:
BMW Enthusiasts, Independent Repair Shops, DIY Mechanics
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level technical data and procedures at a fraction of dealer costs.
Content Authenticity:
Based on original BMW service documentation provided to authorized dealerships.
Practicality:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the E28 535i to factory specifications.
Powertrain:
Engine (M30), Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Clutch, Driveshafts, Differential
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering System (Power Steering)
Brakes:
Brake System (Front & Rear Discs), ABS (if equipped), Parking Brake
Electrical Electronics:
12V Electrical System, Battery, Charging System (Alternator), Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, ECU (Motronic)
Body Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Glass, Interior Trim, Chassis Components
Climate Control:
HVAC System, Air Conditioning, Heating
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Overhaul, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Common Fault Diagnosis
Diagnostics:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) Diagnostics, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing, Wiring Diagrams Analysis
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds)
Diagrams Illustrations:
Step-by-step diagrams, exploded views, wiring schematics
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of BMW-specific special tools
Digital Format Details:
High-resolution PDF, searchable text, bookmark functionality
Print Recommendation:
Printable on standard office printers, optimized for clarity
Physical Manual Analogue:
Professional workshop manual binding (typically spiral-bound or hardcover)
Physical Manual Analogue Paper:
Durable, high-quality paper stock suitable for workshop environments
Engine Type:
Inline-6 Cylinder, SOHC
Engine Displacement:
3.4 Liters (3430 cc)
Engine Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Horsepower Approx:
182-189 hp @ 5500 rpm (varies slightly by market and specific year)
Torque Approx:
224-230 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (varies slightly by market and specific year)
Fuel Injection System:
Bosch Motronic Fuel Injection and Ignition Control
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Cooling System Type:
Pressurized Liquid Cooling
Oil Capacity Approx:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
15W-40 or 20W-50 (check owner's manual for climate specifics)
Standard Transmission Type:
Getrag 265 5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic Control Unit (ECU) managed, selectable driving modes (e.g., Economy/Sport)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil (BMW recommends specific types; consult manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Historical Safety Ratings:
No standardized NCAP ratings from the era; design reflects safety standards of the time.
ABS Availability:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on later models.
Seat Belts:
3-point front seat belts, rear seat belts
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones
Oil Change Interval Approx:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (whichever comes first)
Spark Plug Replacement Interval Approx:
30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type and condition)
Timing Belt N A:
Chain-driven camshafts, no scheduled replacement required.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II/III or specific BMW CHF 11 S (consult manual for exact spec)
Common Wear Items:
Fuel injectors, fuel pump, coolant hoses, oil pan gasket, rear main seal, suspension bushings, exhaust system components.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring harnesses, corrosion in connectors, faulty relays (e.g., fuel pump relay).
Engine Management:
Potential for MAF sensor issues, idle control valve problems, vacuum leaks.
Bmw Philosophy:
Known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', emphasizing performance, engineering, and driver engagement.
E28 Development:
Evolved from the E12, featuring significant improvements in chassis dynamics, aerodynamics, and engine technology.
535I Positioning:
Represented the higher performance tier of the E28 executive sedan lineup.
Production Years Global:
1981-1988
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (primarily Dingolfing)
