Enthusiasts and owners seeking to maintain or repair their E30 3 Series vehicles.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo Milano, Ford Sierra XR4i, Volvo 240 GLT.
Key Features
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for excellent handling, rear-wheel drive dynamics, and driver-focused cockpit.
Engine Variants:
The 'e' models featured a lower-revving, fuel-efficient M20B27 inline-six engine (eta engine), while the 'is' models received the higher-performance M20B25.
Design Era:
Classic BMW design language of the 1980s, characterized by clean lines and iconic kidney grilles.
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, trim.
HVAC:
Heating system, ventilation, air conditioning (compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant lines).
Procedures Included
Engine Overhaul:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, including cylinder head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement.
Transmission Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for rebuilding both manual and automatic transmissions.
Brake System Service:
Brake pad and disc replacement, caliper service, bleeding the brake system, ABS component replacement.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Replacement of ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, strut replacement, power steering system repairs.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagram interpretation, diagnosis of electrical faults, component testing.
Fuel Injection Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Motronic system faults, testing fuel injectors and sensors.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Correct procedure for replacing the timing belt and tensioners on M20 engines.
Engine Mounts Replacement:
Procedure for replacing engine and transmission mounts.
Radiator And Coolant Service:
Coolant flush and fill, radiator replacement, thermostat replacement.
Body Panel Alignment:
Instructions for adjusting doors, hood, and trunk for proper alignment.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts and specifications for accurate repairs.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
PDF Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, generally clear and readable text and diagrams.
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick location of specific information.
Print Quality
Print Readability:
Designed to be printable for workshop use, with clear diagrams and text.
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine 325E Es
Engine Code:
M20B27
Engine Type:
SOHC Inline-6
Displacement:
2.7 Liters (2693 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 81.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 (US Spec)
Horsepower:
121 hp @ 4800 rpm (US Spec)
Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (US Spec)
Primary Engine 325Is
Engine Code:
M20B25
Engine Type:
SOHC Inline-6
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (US Spec)
Horsepower:
168 hp @ 5800 rpm (US Spec)
Torque:
164 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (US Spec)
Fuel System
Injection System:
Bosch Motronic (various versions depending on year and model)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)
General
Engine Layout:
Front-engine, Rear-wheel Drive
🔧 Transmission
Standard 325E Es
Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Optional 325E Es
Type:
5-speed Manual Getrag 260/5
Standard 325Is
Type:
5-speed Manual Getrag 260/5
Optional 325Is
Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Features
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate diaphragm spring clutch (Manual)
Final Drive Ratio 325E:
3.25:1 (often)
Final Drive Ratio 325Is:
3.73:1 (often)
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent, consult manual for exact spec and quantity)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (or equivalent, consult manual for exact spec and quantity)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior Coupe
Length:
4,330 mm (170.5 in)
Width:
1,674 mm (65.9 in)
Height:
1,380 mm (54.3 in)
Wheelbase:
2,565 mm (101.0 in)
Exterior Sedan
Length:
4,330 mm (170.5 in)
Width:
1,674 mm (65.9 in)
Height:
1,380 mm (54.3 in)
Wheelbase:
2,565 mm (101.0 in)
Weights
Curb Weight Coupe:
Approx. 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs)
Curb Weight Sedan:
Approx. 1,350 kg (2,976 lbs)
Cargo
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 0.43 m³ (15.2 cu ft)
Wheels And Tires
Wheelbase:
2,565 mm (101.0 in)
Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
Tire Size Common:
205/55VR14, 205/50VR15 (depending on trim and options)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Historical Safety Standards:
Vehicles of this era were tested to different standards than modern vehicles. Specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings may vary or be unavailable.
Active Features
ABS:
Available as an option on some models, standard on later 325is.
Limited Slip Differential:
Available as an option, particularly on 325is models.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Radio:
Factory-installed AM/FM cassette players were common, often with upgraded speaker systems.
Speakers:
Door, dash, and rear deck speakers were typical configurations.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on many models.
Connectivity
Diagnostics Port:
Proprietary BMW diagnostic connector, requiring specific tools for advanced diagnostics. This manual will cover manual diagnostic procedures.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals General
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for specific year/model.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on plug type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial! Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical due to interference engine design).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 (check manual for specific climate/year recommendations, often synthetic recommended)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (BMW recommends blue/green coolant or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (DOT 4 preferred for better performance)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II/III or specific BMW hydraulic fluid (consult manual).
Known Issues
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter housing, and rear main seal.