🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 5 Series Model Variant: 518, 518i Year: 1987 Codes Chassis Code: E28 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Executive sedan, representing BMW's entry into the mid-size luxury segment Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100, Jaguar XJ, Volvo 240/740 Key Features Engineering Philosophy: Focus on driving dynamics, driver engagement, and solid build quality Model Differentiation: The 518 and 518i were the entry-level variants of the E28 generation, offering BMW performance and refinement at a more accessible price point. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Engines Covered: All engine variants for 518 and 518i models Transmissions Covered: All transmission types (manual and automatic) Trim Levels Covered: All trim levels Page Count Estimated Page Count: Likely extensive, typical for a full workshop manual (e.g., 800-1500+ pages, specific count not provided in product data) Manual Type Manual Type: Workshop Repair Service Manual Language Language: English (typical for workshop manuals) Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Detailed overhaul procedures, component testing, timing, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system Engine Electrical: Ignition system, fuel injection system (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), starting system, charging system, sensors, ECUs Transmission Manual: Clutch operation, gearbox overhaul, shift mechanism, driveshafts Transmission Automatic: Operation, troubleshooting, fluid changes, possible overhaul procedures (specifics depend on transmission type) Suspension And Steering: Front and rear suspension components, power steering system, wheel alignment Brakes: Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake pad/disc replacement, caliper overhaul, brake bleeding Electrical System: Wiring diagrams, lighting system, instrumentation, power windows, central locking, interior/exterior lights Body And Chassis: Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, underbody protection HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service and troubleshooting Procedures Included Scheduled Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement Troubleshooting: Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation (if applicable) Repair And Overhaul: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation Diagnostics: Procedures for diagnosing electrical and mechanical faults using specialized tools and test equipment Specifications And Tolerances: Torque values, clearances, engine specifications, and component tolerances Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to major overhauls and advanced diagnostics 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Likely text-searchable, facilitating quick access to information Printability: Printable pages for in-garage use Print Quality Image Quality: Dependent on original source material; typically includes diagrams and illustrations Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 518: M10B18 (typically) Engine Displacement 518: 1.8 Liters (1766 cc) Engine Cylinders 518: 4 Engine Type 518: Inline-4, naturally aspirated Engine Power 518: Approx. 90-102 hp (specific output varied by market and emission regulations) Engine Torque 518: Approx. 107-114 lb-ft (specific output varied) Engine Code 518I: M10B18 (with fuel injection) Engine Displacement 518I: 1.8 Liters (1766 cc) Engine Cylinders 518I: 4 Engine Type 518I: Inline-4, naturally aspirated, fuel-injected Engine Power 518I: Approx. 105-115 hp (specific output varied) Engine Torque 518I: Approx. 116-120 lb-ft (specific output varied) Performance 0 60 Mph 518: Approx. 11-13 seconds (highly dependent on transmission and final drive) 0 60 Mph 518I: Approx. 10-12 seconds (highly dependent on transmission and final drive) Fuel System Fuel Delivery 518: Carburetor (e.g., Solex or Pierburg) Fuel Delivery 518I: Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (Premium recommended) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 4-speed manual (early E28) or 5-speed Getrag manual transmission Optional Optional Transmission: ZF 4-speed automatic transmission Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch Gear Ratios: Detailed ratios for manual and automatic transmissions are available in the manual 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4,750 mm (187.0 in) Width: Approx. 1,700 mm (66.9 in) Height: Approx. 1,415 mm (55.7 in) Wheelbase: Approx. 2,795 mm (110.0 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1,300 - 1,400 kg (2,866 - 3,086 lbs), depending on options and transmission Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Specific GVWR to be found in manual, typically around 1800-1900 kg Towing Capacity: Not typically advertised or recommended for this model, refer to manual if specified. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data: Limited official crash test data available from this era for this specific model compared to modern standards. The E28 was known for its robust chassis. Active Features ABS: Optional anti-lock braking system (ABS) available on some models Limited Slip Differential: Optional limited-slip differential (LSD) for enhanced traction Passive Features Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for front occupants, two-point lap belts for rear Headrests: Adjustable front headrests, integrated rear headrests on some models Crumple Zones: Designed with front and rear crumple zones for improved occupant protection 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory fitted AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with basic digital tuning. Speaker configurations vary. Instrumentation: Comprehensive dashboard with analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature, and oil pressure. Check control...
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation
Diagnostics:
Procedures for diagnosing electrical and mechanical faults using specialized tools and test equipment
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque values, clearances, engine specifications, and component tolerances
Technical Depth
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to major overhauls and advanced diagnostics
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable, facilitating quick access to information
Printability:
Printable pages for in-garage use
Print Quality
Image Quality:
Dependent on original source material; typically includes diagrams and illustrations
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code 518:
M10B18 (typically)
Engine Displacement 518:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Engine Cylinders 518:
4
Engine Type 518:
Inline-4, naturally aspirated
Engine Power 518:
Approx. 90-102 hp (specific output varied by market and emission regulations)
Engine Torque 518:
Approx. 107-114 lb-ft (specific output varied)
Engine Code 518I:
M10B18 (with fuel injection)
Engine Displacement 518I:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Engine Cylinders 518I:
4
Engine Type 518I:
Inline-4, naturally aspirated, fuel-injected
Engine Power 518I:
Approx. 105-115 hp (specific output varied)
Engine Torque 518I:
Approx. 116-120 lb-ft (specific output varied)
Performance
0 60 Mph 518:
Approx. 11-13 seconds (highly dependent on transmission and final drive)
0 60 Mph 518I:
Approx. 10-12 seconds (highly dependent on transmission and final drive)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery 518:
Carburetor (e.g., Solex or Pierburg)
Fuel Delivery 518I:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Premium recommended)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
4-speed manual (early E28) or 5-speed Getrag manual transmission
Optional
Optional Transmission:
ZF 4-speed automatic transmission
Features
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Gear Ratios:
Detailed ratios for manual and automatic transmissions are available in the manual
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 4,750 mm (187.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,415 mm (55.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,795 mm (110.0 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,300 - 1,400 kg (2,866 - 3,086 lbs), depending on options and transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Specific GVWR to be found in manual, typically around 1800-1900 kg
Towing Capacity:
Not typically advertised or recommended for this model, refer to manual if specified.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data available from this era for this specific model compared to modern standards. The E28 was known for its robust chassis.
Active Features
ABS:
Optional anti-lock braking system (ABS) available on some models
Limited Slip Differential:
Optional limited-slip differential (LSD) for enhanced traction
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for front occupants, two-point lap belts for rear
Headrests:
Adjustable front headrests, integrated rear headrests on some models
Crumple Zones:
Designed with front and rear crumple zones for improved occupant protection
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with basic digital tuning. Speaker configurations vary.
Instrumentation:
Comprehensive dashboard with analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature, and oil pressure. Check control system for system warnings.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system available on many models.
Onboard Computer:
Some later E28 models featured a basic onboard computer (Check Control) providing system status alerts.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
N/A for the era; no integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity. Features were mechanical and basic electrical.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 12 months, refer to manual for precise interval based on driving conditions.
Filter Replacement Interval:
Oil filter with every oil change; air filter and fuel filter typically every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 30,000 miles (48,000 km), depending on spark plug type.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type Viscosity:
API SG or SH rated, viscosity typically 15W-40 or 20W-50. Manual specifies exact type and capacity.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual specifies capacity and type.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for precise specification)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 gear oil. Manual specifies viscosity and capacity (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF. Manual specifies capacity and type.
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Radiator leaks, coolant hoses becoming brittle, water pump failures are common with age.
Electrical System:
Corrosion on connectors, aging wiring harnesses, intermittent issues with power windows, central locking, and dashboard lights.
Fuel System:
Clogged fuel injectors (on 518i), aging fuel pumps, deterioration of rubber fuel lines.
Suspension Components:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers are common due to age and mileage.
Rust:
Prone to rust in common areas like wheel arches, rocker panels, and around the sunroof.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw History:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, a German automaker renowned for its performance luxury vehicles and motorcycles since 1916.
Model Evolution
E28 Generation Introduction:
The E28 generation (1981-1988) succeeded the E12 and was itself succeeded by the E34. It represented a significant step in BMW's design and engineering, featuring improved aerodynamics and technology.
518 518I Positioning:
The 518 and 518i served as the more economical entry points into the 5 Series range, catering to buyers prioritizing BMW's driving dynamics over outright power.
Production
Production Period E28:
1981-1988
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany, with some assembly in other international locations.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Press Awards:
While specific awards for the 518/518i are rare, the E28 5 Series platform was highly praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and engineering. It was often considered a benchmark in its class.
Ratings
Reliability Reputation:
Generally good reliability when properly maintained, but age-related issues are common. The robust mechanicals are a hallmark of BMW engineering.