🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Chassis Code:

E30

Year Covered:

1986

Engine Code:

S14

Production Code Start:

1986

👋 Introduction

Significance:

The E30 M3 is an iconic homologation special, revered for its motorsport heritage and exceptional driving dynamics. This manual is crucial for owners and enthusiasts maintaining this legendary vehicle.

Comparative Value:

Competes with other period performance coupes from brands like Porsche (944) and Ford (Sierra RS Cosworth), but the M3's motorsport pedigree and inline-four engine are distinct.

Vehicle Focus:

Focuses on the high-performance variant of the E30 chassis, emphasizing its specialized components and tuning.

Manual Advantage:

Provides the in-depth, technical information required to properly service and repair the M3, often differing significantly from standard E30 models.

📋 Manual Details

Major Topics:

All major topics covered complete

Estimated Pages:

Comprehensive (exact count not specified, typical for workshop manuals)

Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely a digital format (PDF) given modern sales, or a professionally bound print replica.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine disassembly, assembly, overhaul, component inspection, timing, lubrication, cooling.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, emissions control, sensors, actuators, ECU diagnostics.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (Getrag 265) overhaul, clutch, driveshafts, differential.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, control arms, bushings, anti-roll bars, alignment.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake discs, pads, calipers, lines, master cylinder, bleeding.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, instrumentation, fuses, relays.

Bodywork And Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, seals, chassis structure, jacking points.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components and service.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Systematic fault finding for common issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (if applicable to era).

Component Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for overhauling major components like the engine, transmission, and differential.

Adjustment Procedures:

Valve adjustments, idle speed adjustments, headlight aim, parking brake adjustment.

Installation Replacement:

Step-by-step guides for replacing common wear items and major components.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and drivetrain rebuilds.

Detail Level:

Detailed torque specifications, clearance measurements, and assembly sequences.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Details:

If PDF, expect searchable text, high-resolution diagrams, and clear printability. May include bookmarks for easy navigation.

Print Quality Details:

If printed, expect professional binding, clear diagrams, and durable paper stock suitable for workshop use.

Binding Type:

Likely spiral-bound or professionally perfect-bound for digital copies, or durable hardcover/softcover for print versions.

Paper Type:

If printed, typically durable, semi-gloss paper to resist workshop grime and allow for clear reproduction of diagrams.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 Cylinder

Engine Code:

S14B23

Displacement:

2302 cc (2.3 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

91 mm x 87 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.5:1

Horsepower:

195 hp @ 6,000 rpm (DIN)

Torque:

240 Nm (177 lb-ft) @ 4,750 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic ML-1.3 Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (98 RON recommended)

Cylinder Head:

DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, aluminum alloy.

Crankshaft:

Forged steel crankshaft.

Pistons:

Forged pistons.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual

Manufacturer Model:

Getrag 265

Type:

None for M3 model.

Gear Ratios:

Refer to manual for specific gear ratios (typically close-ratio for performance).

Differential:

Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) standard.

Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW recommends specific synthetic gear oil. Consult manual for exact specification (e.g., Castrol SAF-XJ or equivalent).

Transmission Oil Capacity:

Approximately 1.5 liters. Consult manual for exact figure and fill procedure.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4340 mm (170.9 in)

Width:

1675 mm (66.0 in)

Height:

1370 mm (53.9 in)

Wheelbase:

2565 mm (100.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1200-1250 kg (2645-2755 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to VIN plate/manual for exact GVWR.

Wheel Size:

15 x 7.0J (standard), 15 x 7.5J (optional BBS cross-spoke)

Tire Size:

205/50 VR 15

Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

E30 chassis generally performed well for its era. Specific M3 data may be limited; manual focuses on mechanical safety systems.

Brakes:

Four-wheel disc brakes; ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was optional on early E30 M3s.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia reel seatbelts.

Chassis Structure:

Reinforced body structure typical of BMW's engineering for the period.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Original systems likely featured cassette players with optional CD changers. Aftermarket head units common.

Instrumentation:

Comprehensive analogue gauges including tachometer, speedometer, oil temperature, and oil pressure.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Limited Slip Differential:

Standard limited-slip differential (LSD) for improved traction and handling.

Original Features:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Focus is on mechanical and driving performance.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Recommended every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-10,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific driving conditions.

Air Filter:

Inspect every 10,000 km, replace as needed. Consult manual for specific interval.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000-40,000 km. Consult manual for exact type and gap.

Brake Fluid:

Replace every 2 years to prevent moisture absorption. Consult manual for specification.

Engine Oil:

BMW recommends synthetic oil meeting API SG or higher and specific BMW LL-XX specifications (e.g., LL-98 for older spec, though modern equivalent often used). Viscosity typically 5W-40 or 10W-40. Consult manual for definitive spec.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Consult manual for mix ratio.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.5 liters (5.8 US quarts) with filter. Consult manual for precise fill level.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 liters (7.9 US quarts). Consult manual for exact capacity.

Rod Bearings:

Pre-emptive replacement is often recommended for high-mileage S14 engines due to potential wear.

Rear Axle Mounts:

Bushings in the rear subframe can wear, leading to clunking and imprecise handling.

Rust:

Common rust areas include wheel arches, rocker panels, and strut towers, especially in regions with road salt.

Fuel Lines:

Aging rubber fuel lines can become brittle and leak, requiring replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorsport:

BMW M GmbH (Motorsport) heritage in touring car racing is the genesis of the E30 M3, designed for homologation.

E30 Development:

Based on the popular E30 3 Series, but features significantly revised bodywork (flared arches, unique C-pillar and rear window), suspension, and a bespoke engine.

E30 M3 Variants:

Evolved through various iterations including the Evo I, Evo II, Sport Evolution, and Convertible. This manual focuses on the initial 1986 model.

Production Years:

1986-1991

Production Volume:

Approx. 17,970 units globally.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motorsport Success:

The E30 M3 was a highly successful touring car, winning numerous championships worldwide, including the DTM, World Touring Car Championship, and ETCC. This racing pedigree is a key recognition.

Critical Acclaim:

Consistently ranked among the best driver's cars of its era and remains a highly sought-after classic. Often praised for its balance, feedback, and track capability.