Generation:
E30, E30A, E33A, E34A, E35A, E38A, E39A
Years Covered:
1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993
Segment:
Mid-size sedan, positioned as a comfortable and reliable family car with available sporty variants.
Competitors:
Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Nissan Maxima.
Design Philosophy:
Aerodynamic styling, spacious interior, front-wheel drive platform.
Drivetrain Options:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard, with some markets offering all-wheel drive (AWD) on specific models.
Countries Of Sale:
Primarily North America (USA, Canada), but also covers specifications relevant to global markets for the E30 platform.
Trim Levels Covered:
LS, GS, GTS, RS, ES (may vary by year and market)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, cooling, lubrication, manual transmission, automatic transmission, drive axles, clutch.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, ABS if equipped), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, body electronics, engine control module (ECM) wiring diagrams, chassis electrical wiring diagrams.
Body:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, inspections.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for OBD-I systems, component testing procedures.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including internal component specifications and tolerances.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component rebuilds. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
NHTSA Side Impact:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA in modern standards for this era; focus on passive restraint systems of the time.
ABS:
Optional on some models, standard on higher trims or later years.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard from 1990 model year in the US; passenger airbag generally not available.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts, two-point rear center, three-point rear outboard.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette player with optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models, typically as an option.
OBD Standard:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, First Generation). Diagnostic codes accessed via a specific connector and procedure, not standardized like OBD-II.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for exact specifications).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 60,000 miles or 5 years for 4G63 engines (critical maintenance item to prevent catastrophic engine damage).
Engine Oil Type 1:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Engine Oil Capacity 1:
Approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with filter change (4G63/6G71).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Dexron III/Mercon compatible ATF.
Engine:
Timing belt failure on 4G63 engines if not replaced on schedule; head gasket leaks; oil pan seal leaks; occasional issues with fuel injectors and ignition components.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings; worn struts/shocks; sway bar links; rear axle alignment issues.
Electrical:
Degradation of wiring insulation over time; aging power window motors; issues with the multi-function turn signal switch; alternator bearing failure.
Body:
Rust on rocker panels, wheel wells, and floor pans; interior plastic components can become brittle; HVAC blower motor resistor failure.
Manufacturer Origin:
Japan
Generation Platform:
This generation (E30 series) introduced a more aerodynamic design and significant chassis updates compared to its predecessors.
Key Technological Advancements:
Introduction of multi-link independent rear suspension on many models, improved engine management systems, and optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD).
Manufacturing Plant:
Pajaro, California, USA (for North American market) and Mizushima, Japan.
Production Span:
1987-1993 for the E30 generation.
