Target Audience:
BMW E30 owners, DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, BMW specialists
Value Proposition:
Essential resource for maintaining, repairing, and optimizing the BMW E30, saving time and money
Core Benefit:
Empowers users with detailed knowledge for accurate parts ordering and effective repairs
Convenience:
Instant digital download, printable pages for portable use
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive service and repair for BMW E30 models
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, troubleshooting, parts identification, technical specifications
Estimated Page Count:
Refer to specific manual edition, typically 1000+ pages for full coverage
Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Propeller Shaft, Transfer Box
Chassis:
Front Axle, Steering and Wheel Alignment, Rear Axle, Brakes, Pedals, Wheels and Tires
Body:
Body, Body Equipment, Seats, Hood and Sunroof, Body Cavity Sealing and Undercoating
Electrical:
Engine Electrical Equipment, Electrical Equipment, Instruments, Lights, Radio and Special Equipment
HVAC:
Heating and Air Conditioning
Suspension And Steering:
Detailed coverage of struts, shocks, control arms, steering rack, tie rods, and alignment procedures
Maintenance:
Routine service, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, common issue identification, diagnostic procedures
Repair:
Complete tear down and rebuild procedures for all major systems
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing parts and assemblies
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for critical fasteners
Bodywork Repair:
Includes procedures for panel replacement, rust repair, and body cavity sealing
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting for lighting, instruments, ignition, and charging systems
Depth Level:
In-depth, covering everything from basic maintenance to complex overhauls
Engine Rebuild Detail:
Covers complete engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement, and reassembly
Transmission Overhaul:
Instructions for manual and automatic transmission disassembly, repair, and reassembly
Diagrams And Pictures:
Includes numerous pictures and detailed part diagrams for clarity
Engine Family:
M10, M20, M40, M42, S14
Common Engines:
1.8L M10, 2.0L M20, 2.3L M20, 2.5L M20, 2.7L M20, 1.8L M40, 1.8L M42, 2.3L S14 (M3)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 90 hp to 238 hp (depending on engine and model variant)
Torque Range:
Approx. 100 lb-ft to 243 lb-ft (depending on engine and model variant)
Induction Type:
Carbureted (early models) and Fuel Injection (Bosch L-Jetronic, Motronic)
Cylinder Layout:
Inline-4 and Inline-6
ECU Systems:
Bosch LE2-Jetronic, Motronic ML 4.1, Motronic M1.3, Motronic M1.7, DME
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed manual, 5-speed Getrag manual
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed automatic (ZF 3HP22)
Gearshift Mechanism:
Cable-operated or direct linkage, depending on model year and transmission
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Typically ATF Dexron II for automatics, GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil for manuals (refer to specific manual for exact specs)
Body Styles:
2-door sedan, 4-door sedan, convertible, touring (wagon)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2,400 lbs to 3,100 lbs (depending on body style and options)
Historical Safety Performance:
Good for its era, but lacking modern safety features; specific crash test data varies by year and region
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (later models and M3 variants often had rear discs)
Restraints:
Seat belts, optional airbags (late models)
Audio Systems:
Factory BMW radios, cassette players, optional CD changers (later models)
ABS:
Optional on many models, standard on some later variants and M3
Lighting Technology:
Halogen headlights, optional fog lights
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to specific manual for exact recommendations)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Essential for M10, M20, M40, M42 engines; typically every 50,000 - 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical to follow manual)
Engine Oil Type:
Varies by engine, commonly 15W-40, 20W-50, or 10W-40 synthetic or semi-synthetic (check manual for specific API/ACEA ratings)
Coolant Type:
BMW-specific antifreeze/coolant (blue or green) mixed with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (ensure compatibility with ABS if equipped)
Common Problems:
Rust (wheel arches, rocker panels, strut towers), cooling system failures (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel distributor issues (K-Jetronic), worn suspension bushings, differential seal leaks, electrical connector corrosion
Valve Adjustment:
Required for M10 and M20 engines periodically (check manual)
Manufacturer:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW)
Production Years:
1982-1994
Design Philosophy:
Compact executive car, known for sporty handling and driver engagement
Production Locations:
Germany (Munich, Dingolfing)
Iconic Variants:
BMW M3 (E30) - S14 engine, motorsport-derived chassis
