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Introduction
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Market Position
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Positioning:
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The BMW 5 Series (E28) represented BMW's commitment to executive-class sedans offering a blend of luxury, performance, and sporty handling. The 518 and 518i were the entry-level models in this prestigious line-up, targeting buyers who valued BMW's engineering and brand prestige without necessarily requiring the higher performance of larger engines.
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Competitive Analysis
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Competitors:
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Competed against models like the Mercedes-Benz W123/W124, Audi 100, and Jaguar XJ-S (though the latter was positioned higher).
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Key Features
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Vehicle Highlights:
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The E28 5 Series was renowned for its sophisticated suspension, driver-focused ergonomics, and build quality. The 518 models offered a more fuel-efficient entry point into the 5 Series ownership experience.
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Manual Value Proposition
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Value:
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This manual is essential for any owner or independent mechanic working on a 1985 BMW 518 or 518i. It provides the critical technical information needed to maintain, diagnose, and repair these vehicles accurately, preserving their classic status and driving pleasure.
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Engine:
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Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, tuning, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic for 518i), ignition system, lubrication, cooling system
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Transmission:
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Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and overhaul, including clutch service, torque converter details, and gearshift mechanisms
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Drivetrain:
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Differential, driveshafts, CV joints, axle repairs
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Suspension:
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Front and rear suspension component diagnosis and replacement, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel bearing service
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Steering:
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Power steering system service, steering rack overhaul, steering column repairs
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Brakes:
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Front and rear brake systems (likely discs front, drums rear for 518/518i), ABS (if equipped on specific variants), brake fluid service, caliper and master cylinder overhaul
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Electrical:
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Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, starter motor, alternator, battery, lighting systems, instrument cluster diagnosis, accessory circuits, ECU diagnosis (limited for base models)
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Bodywork:
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Body panel alignment, door and window mechanisms, interior trim removal and installation, rust repair procedures, body sealing
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HVAC:
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Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service and repair
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance:
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Scheduled maintenance procedures, oil change intervals, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush
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Troubleshooting:
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Diagnostic charts and flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems
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Repair:
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Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and body repairs
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Installation:
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Procedures for installing replacement parts and accessories
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Torque Specifications:
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Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners and engine components
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Alignment Specifications:
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Wheel alignment specifications
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures.
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Engine Specifications
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Primary Engine
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Engine Code 518:
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M10B18 (inline-four cylinder)
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Engine Code 518I:
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M10B18 (inline-four cylinder with L-Jetronic fuel injection)
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Displacement
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Displacement Liters:
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1.8 L (1766 cc)
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Performance 518
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Horsepower 518:
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Approximately 90 hp @ 5500 rpm
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Torque 518:
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Approximately 140 Nm (103 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm
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Performance 518I
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Horsepower 518I:
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Approximately 105 hp @ 5800 rpm
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Torque 518I:
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Approximately 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
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Fuel System
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Fuel System 518:
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Carbureted (e.g., Solex 40 PDIT)
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Fuel System 518I:
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Bosch L-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection
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Engine Management
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Ignition System:
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Distributor-based ignition system (points or electronic depending on exact build date/spec)
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ECU 518I:
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Basic engine control unit for fuel injection management
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Cooling System
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Cooling Type:
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Water-cooled
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Lubrication
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Oil Capacity Liters:
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Approximately 4.25 liters (with filter) of SAE 20W-50 or SAE 10W-40
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Transmission
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Standard
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Transmission Type Standard:
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4-speed Manual (Getrag 245)
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Optional
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Transmission Type Optional:
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3-speed Automatic (ZF 3HP22)
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Features
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Clutch Type:
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Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated
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Transmission Fluid Manual:
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GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90)
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Transmission Fluid Automatic:
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Dexron III or equivalent (check manual for exact specification)
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval Km:
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Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km or 6-12 months (refer to manual for precise recommendations)
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Spark Plug Replacement Interval Km:
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Approximately 20,000 - 30,000 km for standard plugs (iridium/platinum may vary)
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Timing Belt Chain:
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M10 engines use a timing chain, which generally does not have a replacement interval but requires inspection for wear.
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Spec:
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API SG/SF or equivalent, viscosity SAE 20W-50 or SAE 10W-40 recommended for typical climates. Check manual for specific ambient temperature charts.
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Coolant Spec:
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Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW may have specific coolant recommendations (e.g., blue coolant).
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Brake Fluid Spec:
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DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
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Known Issues
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Common Problems Engine:
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Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), cooling system leaks (hose degradation, water pump), potential carburetor issues on non-i models, vacuum line leaks impacting performance.
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Common Problems Electrical:
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Failing fuel pump relays, corroded wiring connectors, aging alternator or starter, instrument cluster illumination issues.
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Common Problems Suspension:
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Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers leading to poor handling and tire wear.
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Common Problems Body:
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Rust (especially around wheel arches, rocker panels, and jacking points).
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Vehicle History
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Brand Heritage
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Brand Legacy:
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BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, is a German luxury vehicle manufacturer with a long-standing reputation for producing 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', emphasizing performance, engineering, and driver engagement.
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Model Evolution
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E28 Generation:
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The E28 was the second generation of the 5 Series, produced from 1981 to 1988. It was an evolution of the E12, featuring improved aerodynamics, updated styling, and significant mechanical refinements.
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518 Positioning:
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The 518 and 518i served as the entry-level models, making the prestigious 5 Series more accessible. The 'i' denoted fuel injection, which was becoming increasingly common in the early to mid-1980s.
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Production
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Production Years E28:
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1981-1988
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