Market Segment:
Sports Sedan / Luxury Performance Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, Independent Workshops, BMW Owners seeking detailed repair information.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 300E (W124), Audi 5000, Volvo 740/760
Performance Focus:
Highlighting the performance-oriented M535i variant derived from motorsport.
Engineering Quality:
Emphasizing BMW's reputation for build quality and driver-centric engineering.
Powertrain:
Engine (M30B34), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System
Drivetrain:
Clutch, Manual Transmission (Getrag 265), Driveshafts, Differential
Chassis:
Suspension (Front McPherson Strut, Rear Semi-Trailing Arm), Steering System, Braking System (Front & Rear Discs), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer System, HVAC Controls, Power Windows/Locks, Audio System, Fuses & Relays
Body & Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Seats, Dashboard, Trim
General Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks & Top-offs, Belt Inspections & Adjustments
Engine Repair:
Top-End Overhaul (Cylinder Head), Bottom-End Overhaul (Crankshaft, Pistons, Connecting Rods), Timing Chain/Belt Replacement, Component Removal/Installation
Fuel System Repair:
Fuel Pump Replacement, Injector Testing & Replacement (if applicable), Fuel Filter Replacement, EFI System Troubleshooting
Transmission & Drivetrain Repair:
Clutch Replacement, Transmission Rebuild, Differential Service, Driveshaft U-Joint Replacement
Suspension & Steering Repair:
Shock Absorber/Strut Replacement, Ball Joint & Tie Rod End Replacement, Power Steering Pump & Rack Repair
Brake System Repair:
Brake Pad/Shoe Replacement, Rotor/Drum Machining or Replacement, Brake Caliper Overhaul, Brake Fluid Flush & Bleed
Electrical System Troubleshooting:
Wiring Diagram Interpretation, Component Testing (Starter, Alternator), Fault Diagnosis
Bodywork & Interior:
Panel Replacement, Door Mechanism Adjustment, Trim Piece Installation
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics
Depth Level:
Comprehensive Professional Workshop Level
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation (where applicable), and troubleshooting trees for various systems.
Rebuilds:
Complete engine, transmission, and differential rebuild procedures with component specifications and tolerances.
Adjustments:
Precise instructions for adjustments on systems like valve lash, ignition timing, idle speed, and clutch engagement.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
3.4 Liters (3430 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 or 8.8:1 (depending on market/emission controls)
Horsepower:
218 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
310 Nm (229 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection (LH-Jetronic on later models/specific markets)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Engine Orientation:
Front-Longitudinal
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) per bank, 2 valves per cylinder
Era Safety Standards:
Reflects mid-1980s safety standards; features crumple zones and safety cage construction.
Braking System:
Power-assisted front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) optional or standard depending on market/year.
Steering:
Power assisted recirculating ball steering system.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear.
Interior Safety:
Energy-absorbing steering column, padded dashboard, reinforced doors.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for exact recommendation.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as per manual recommendation.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 recommended. Refer to manual for specific ambient temperature viscosity.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent.
Common Wear Items:
Fuel accumulator, fuel pump, distributor cap and rotor, ignition wires, rear subframe bushings, control arm bushings, sway bar links, window regulators, door seals, heater core, thermostat.
Engine Specific Concerns:
Potential oil leaks from front/rear main seals, valve cover gasket. Overtheating if cooling system is neglected. Timing chain stretch over time.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for performance, engineering, and driver engagement.
E28 Generation:
The E28 was the second generation of BMW's 5 Series, succeeding the E12. It marked a significant step in refinement and technology.
M Performance Variant:
The M535i was the flagship performance model of the E28 range before the arrival of the legendary E28 M5. It featured a tuned M30 engine and enhanced chassis components.
Production Years:
E28 series produced from 1981 to 1988. M535i variants produced from 1984 to 1987.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany.
