Bmw E30 Legacy:
The E30 is a highly revered model in BMW's history, known for its engaging driving dynamics, build quality, and classic styling, appealing to both enthusiasts and everyday drivers.
Competitors Of The Era:
Competed with cars like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, and various models from Japanese luxury marques.
E30 Strengths:
Rear-wheel drive platform, balanced chassis, reliable inline-four and inline-six engines, excellent driver feedback, various body styles (sedan, coupe, convertible, touring, ix AWD).
Maintenance And General Data:
Section 00
Engine Mechanical:
Section 11
Engine Electrical Equipment:
Section 12
Fuel Tanks And Lines:
Section 16
Radiator And Cooling System:
Section 17
Exhaust System:
Section 18
Clutch System:
Section 21
Manual Transmission:
Section 23
Automatic Transmission:
Section 24
Gear Shift Mechanism:
Section 25
Propeller Shaft Driveshaft:
Section 26
Transfer Box AWD:
Section 27 (relevant for 325iX models)
Front Axle Suspension:
Section 31
Steering And Wheel Alignment:
Section 32
Rear Axle Suspension:
Section 33
Brakes System:
Section 34
Pedals And Linkages:
Section 35
Wheels And Tires:
Section 36
Integrated Suspension Systems:
Section 37
Body Construction:
Section 41
Body Equipment:
Section 51
Seats And Interior Trim:
Section 52
Hood Bonnet Sun Roof:
Section 54
Electrical System Main:
Section 61
Instruments And Gauges:
Section 62
Lights And Lighting System:
Section 63
Heating And Air Conditioning HVAC:
Section 64
Radio Audio And Special Equipment:
Section 65
Engine Chassis Equipment Accessories:
Section 71
Body Equipment Accessories:
Section 72
Body Cavity Sealing Undercoating:
Section 97
Estimated Page Count:
N/A (PDF format often has variable pagination)
Type:
Original Factory Service Repair Manual
Digital Delivery:
Instant Download
Operating Systems:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Software Requirement:
Adobe PDF Reader
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel delivery, ignition, cooling, exhaust, clutch, manual and automatic transmissions, driveline components.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front and rear axles, steering system, brakes, wheels, tires, and integrated suspension systems.
Body And Interior:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior components, seating, hood, sunroof, and body sealing.
Electrical And Electronics:
Complete electrical system, instruments, lighting, HVAC, audio systems, and special equipment wiring.
Maintenance:
Routine servicing, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, inspections.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
System diagnosis, common fault identification, and corrective procedures.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, overhaul, and reinstallation.
Adjustment And Calibration:
Procedures for adjusting brakes, steering, timing, and other critical systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering general data, maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and overhaul procedures for all major vehicle systems.
Diagrams And Illustrations
Quality:
High-quality diagrams and illustrations to aid understanding.
Text Format:
Easy-to-read text sections.
Common Engine Options:
M10 (4-cylinder, e.g., 318i) and M20 (6-cylinder, e.g., 320i, 325i). Later models introduced the M40 (4-cylinder) and S14 (4-cylinder M3).
E30 325I Performance:
Approx. 168-171 hp and 170-175 lb-ft torque from the M20B27/M20B25 engine (specifics vary by year and market).
Fuel Injection Systems:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection systems were common, depending on the engine and year.
Manual Transmission Options:
4-speed and 5-speed Getrag manual transmissions (e.g., 260/5).
Automatic Transmission Options:
ZF 3HP22 or 4HP22 3-speed and 4-speed automatic transmissions.
Drivetrain Options:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) standard, with optional All-wheel drive (AWD) on 325iX models.
E30 Wheelbase:
Approx. 2570-2580 mm (101.2-101.6 inches), varying slightly by body style.
E30 Length:
Approx. 4330-4420 mm (170.5-174.0 inches), varying by body style.
E30 Width:
Approx. 1670-1700 mm (65.7-66.9 inches).
E30 Height:
Approx. 1360-1420 mm (53.5-55.9 inches).
E30 Curb Weight:
Typically ranges from 1150 kg to 1450 kg (2535 lbs to 3200 lbs) depending on engine, body style, and equipment.
E30 Safety Standards:
Designed to meet safety standards of its era, featuring crumple zones, safety-belt reminders, and impact-absorbing features. Specific crash ratings are market-dependent and may not be as comprehensive as modern standards.
Braking Features:
Ventilated front disc brakes standard on most models, rear discs on higher trims. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option on many models.
Restraint Systems:
3-point seat belts, often with pre-tensioners. Later models may have driver's side airbags.
E30 Audio Systems:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player was common. Upgraded stereo systems with multiple speakers were optional. Connectivity and digital interfaces were not present in modern forms.
E30 Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards. Features like ABS were optional. No electronic stability control (ESC), traction control (ASC/DSC), or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) were available.
E30 Connectivity Options:
None inherent to the vehicle's original design. Modern aftermarket solutions exist for Bluetooth and smartphone integration.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, though early models might recommend more frequent changes.
Timing Belt Interval:
For M10 and M20 engines, typically every 60,000-90,000 km (36,000-54,000 miles) or 4-5 years. Always refer to the manual for precise intervals.
Engine Oil Type:
Varies by engine and climate, but commonly SAE 10W-40 or 10W-50 for gasoline engines. Always consult the manual for specific BMW approvals and viscosity grades.
Coolant Type:
Typically a phosphate-free ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. BMW's G48 coolant is a common modern recommendation, but older specs might differ.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil with appropriate viscosity, often SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Manual transmission fluid (MTF) specific to BMW is often recommended.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF Dexron II or III for ZF automatic transmissions. BMW advised specific fluid types, consult manual for exact spec.
Common E30 Problems:
Rust (especially in sills, arches, trunk floor), sagging headliner, coolant system leaks (hose failures, water pump, radiator), door handle fatigue, fuel distributor issues (K-Jetronic), vacuum leaks, odometer gear failure, rear subframe mounting reinforcement.
Bmw Heritage:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused, high-performance vehicles with a strong emphasis on engineering and dynamics.
E30 Introduction And Updates:
Introduced in 1982, the E30 replaced the E21. It evolved with new engine options (including the M3's S14 engine), aerodynamic revisions, and interior updates throughout its production run until 1994.
E30 Production Dates:
1982 to 1994.
E30 M3 Significance:
The E30 M3, introduced in 1986, is an iconic homologation special, celebrated for its motorsport success and distinct performance characteristics.
E30 Automotive Press Acclaim:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and engineering. The E30 M3, in particular, is a highly celebrated performance car.
E30 Long Term Reliability:
Generally considered reliable when properly maintained, with many E30s still in excellent running condition today, testament to their robust build quality.
Manual Quality Assurance:
Original factory manuals are produced to high standards, ensuring accuracy and completeness for technicians and owners.