Technical Documentation Scope:
Comprehensive workshop procedures, component diagnostics, repair, and maintenance for the entire BMW E30 range.
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific edition, but typically extensive, often exceeding 1000 pages due to the detail and multiple variants covered.
Type:
Workshop Manual / Service Manual
Language:
English (primary language of the description, though original manuals may exist in German and other languages)
Format:
PDF (Digital, Searchable, Printable)
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals (M10, M20, M40, M42, S14 inline-4 and inline-6 engines), cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication, cooling system.
Fuel And Ignition Systems:
Bosch L-Jetronic, Motronic (various versions), K-Jetronic fuel injection, ignition systems, spark plugs, coils, distributors, sensors.
Clutch And Transmission:
Clutch operation, hydraulic system, manual transmissions (Getrag 240, 260), automatic transmissions (ZF 3HP22), gearshift linkages, driveline, differential, CV joints.
Suspension And Steering:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (semi-trailing arms), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering rack, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes, some rear drum variants), ABS (where equipped), brake lines, calipers, master cylinder, brake fluid specifications.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel specifications, bolt patterns, tire size recommendations, pressure settings.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting systems, starter motor, alternator, battery, instrument cluster, onboard electronics, diagnostic connectors (where applicable).
Bodywork And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass, seals, interior trim, seat removal, HVAC system (Air Temperature Control).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, belt inspections and replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting common issues, diagnostic flowcharts, component testing, electrical system diagnostics.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds (top-end and complete), transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, brake system overhauls, suspension component replacement, differential service.
Component Replacement:
Detailed step-by-step guides for replacing virtually all mechanical and electrical components.
Technical Data Provision:
Torque specifications, fluid capacities, engine oil grades, coolant types, battery specifications, valve clearances (where applicable).
Depth Of Coverage:
Extremely detailed, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes exploded views and part identification for many components.
Engine Families Covered:
M10 (4-cylinder), M20 (6-cylinder), M40 (4-cylinder), M42 (4-cylinder DOHC), S14 (4-cylinder M-specific).
Typical Power Output Range:
65 kW (88 hp) to 147 kW (197 hp) depending on engine variant and market (e.g., 316i, 318i, 320i, 325i, M3).
Typical Torque Output Range:
140 Nm (103 lb-ft) to 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) depending on engine variant.
Injection Systems:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS), Bosch L-Jetronic, Bosch Motronic (various ECUs: ML1.1, ML4.1, M1.3, M2.1, M2.3, M2.4).
Carburetion Systems:
Zenith, Pierburg (less common on later models, but covered for early variants).
Engine Tuning Details:
Includes specifications for valve adjustments, timing belt/chain replacement, fuel pressure testing, and basic engine diagnostics.
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed manual (Getrag 240 for smaller engines, Getrag 260 for larger engines).
Optional Transmission Type:
3-speed automatic (ZF 3HP22), 4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22) on some models.
Transmission Fluid Specifications:
Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) types for automatic gearboxes, manual transmission fluid types (e.g., BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent).
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate with hydraulic actuation.
Crash Test Performance:
Early E30s pre-date modern standardized crash testing protocols (e.g., NHTSA 5-star ratings). Manual covers passive safety features of its era.
Anti Lock Braking System ABS:
Optional on most models, standard on some later performance variants (e.g., M3, later 325i).
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts.
Chassis Design:
Reinforced A-pillars, crumple zones, door intrusion beams.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-10,000 miles (8,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Manual will specify for each engine.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Varies by plug type (copper, platinum), typically 20,000-50,000 miles.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
For M20, M40, M42 engines: 40,000-60,000 miles (64,000-96,000 km) or 4-5 years. M10 is a timing chain. Manual details specific intervals.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 for most M10/M20 engines; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 for M40/M42. Manual provides precise recommendations.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Manual specifies mixture ratio (typically 50/50).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual specifies which to use and change interval.
Common E30 Issues Covered:
Fuel pump relay failure, heater core leaks, instrument cluster dead pixels, subframe cracks (rear), oil pan leaks, vacuum leaks, rust (wheel arches, sills, strut towers), suspension bushing wear.
Bmw Heritage:
The E30 represents a pivotal generation for BMW, solidifying its reputation for sporty handling, driver engagement, and build quality, particularly building on the success of the E21.
Production Years:
1982-1994 (market dependent).
Key Variants:
E30 316i, 318i, 320i, 323i, 325i, 325e (eta), M3 (E30 S14 engine), Convertible variants (E30B, E30C).
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany ( utama), Austria, South Africa, Mexico, Thailand.