Iconic Status:
The E30 M3 is a legendary homologation special, celebrated for its motorsport pedigree and exceptional driving dynamics.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, owners, and professional mechanics working on the BMW E30 M3.
Competitors Era:
Porsche 944, Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth, Ford Sierra RS Cosworth.
Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical knowledge essential for maintaining and restoring this highly sought-after classic performance car.
Instant Download Benefit:
Immediate access to critical repair information, saving time and eliminating shipping costs.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, timing belt/chain, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), exhaust system.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics and troubleshooting, sensors, wiring diagrams.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Getrag 265) overhaul, clutch system, driveline, differential.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), front and rear disc brake servicing, parking brake.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear independent suspension, bushings, shock absorbers, springs, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column.
Electrical Body:
Lighting system, power windows, central locking, wipers, horn, dashboard instruments, interior trim removal.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, corrosion repair guidance, chassis specifications.
Maintenance:
Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Systematic fault finding for engine, transmission, brakes, electrical, and other systems. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings.
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component repair and complete system overhauls.
Installation Adjustment:
Component replacement, alignment procedures, calibration of sensors and systems.
Depth Level:
Full Professional Workshop Level. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-4
Displacement:
2302 cc (2.3 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
91 mm x 87 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Horsepower:
192 hp @ 6900 rpm (Catalytic Converter Equipped: 192 hp; Non-Catalytic: 200 hp for some markets/years)
Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 4750 rpm (Catalytic Converter Equipped: 170 lb-ft; Non-Catalytic: 170 lb-ft for some markets/years)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch D-Jetronic Fuel Injection (early models) / Bosch Motronic M1.3 Fuel Injection (later models)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic (specific variant varies by year and market)
Engine Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics with check engine light (CEL) and potential for reading fault codes via specific procedures.
Length:
Approx. 4,430 mm (174.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,675 mm (65.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,370 mm (53.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,560 mm (100.8 in)
Track Width Front:
Approx. 1,430 mm (56.3 in)
Track Width Rear:
Approx. 1,430 mm (56.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,200 - 1,230 kg (2646 - 2712 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 1,750 kg (3858 lbs)
Crash Test Data Availability:
Limited by era; focus on structural integrity and driver protection features of the period.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional or standard depending on market and specific year. The manual covers its operation and servicing.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts
Headrests:
Front and rear headrests
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell and crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player; manual covers basic electrical connections for head unit replacement.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (as noted in Safety section).
Diagnostic Interface:
Early diagnostic protocols, often requiring direct connection to ECU or use of specialized tools. Manual details access points and procedures.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Timing Belt Replacement:
The S14 uses a timing chain, not a belt, which requires inspection for wear and tensioner health rather than interval replacement. Manual details inspection procedures.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended replacement every 30,000 miles, specific plug types detailed in manual.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2 years or 40,000 miles. Manual specifies coolant type and capacity.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.5 liters (5.8 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 (check manual for exact specification).
Differential Fluid Type:
GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 (for LSD, check manual).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Vanos Issues:
N/A (E30 M3 S14 engine does not feature VANOS).
Subframe Cracking:
Rear subframe mounting points can crack due to chassis stress; manual details inspection and repair.
Oil Pan Damage:
Low ground clearance can lead to oil pan damage; careful driving is advised. Manual includes oil pan removal/installation.
Cooling System Leaks:
Common for older vehicles; radiator, hoses, and water pump can leak. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.
Hesitation Stalling:
Often related to fuel delivery issues, vacuum leaks, or ignition components. Manual provides diagnostic flowcharts.
Bmw Motorsport:
The M3 lineage is rooted in BMW's successful motorsport programs, particularly its touring car championships.
E30 Platform:
The E30 M3 was developed to homologate the car for Group A touring car racing, requiring specific chassis and drivetrain modifications.
Engine Development:
The S14 engine was a highly stressed four-cylinder derived from BMW's M10 block but significantly modified with a dual-overhead cam cylinder head and individual throttle bodies.
Production Years:
1986-1991 (with final sales into early 1992)
Manufacturing Plant:
Munich, Germany
Production Volume:
Approximately 17,970 units worldwide (including various E30 M3 variants like Sport Evolution, Cabriolet).
