🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Chassis Code: E30 Year: 1990 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Essential technical resource for BMW E30 owners and independent repair shops focusing on this classic model. Competitive Analysis Advantage: Genuine factory documentation provides the highest level of accuracy and completeness compared to aftermarket manuals. Key Features Benefit: Enables DIY repairs and maintenance, saving significant costs on dealership or independent garage services. Value Proposition: Empowers owners with the knowledge to properly service and maintain their E30 for optimal performance and longevity. 📋 Manual Details Identification Product Name: 1990 BMW E30 Workshop Service Repair Manual Source: Genuine Factory Workshop Repair Manual from BMW Manual Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language: English Format: PDF Computer Compatibility: PC and MAC compatible 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine And Engine Electrical: Comprehensive coverage of engine maintenance, repair, diagnosis, and electrical systems. Fuel System: Detailed information on fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel injection systems, and fuel delivery components. Cooling And Exhaust: Includes radiator, cooling system components, exhaust manifolds, pipes, and mufflers. Clutch: Procedures for clutch inspection, replacement, and related components. Transmission: Covers both manual and automatic transmissions, including gear shift mechanisms, maintenance, and repair. Drivetrain: Includes propeller shaft, transfer box (if applicable to certain E30 models), and front/rear axles. Steering And Suspension: Detailed guidance on steering systems, wheel alignment, integrated suspension systems, and components. Brakes: Comprehensive coverage of brake system components, maintenance, bleeding, and repair. Wheels And Tires: Information on wheel specifications, tire mounting, and related procedures. Body And Body Equipment: Covers body repair, panels, doors, windows, and general body equipment. Electrical System: Detailed information on the entire electrical system, including wiring diagrams and component testing. Lighting: Covers headlight, taillight, and interior lighting systems, including troubleshooting. HVAC: Includes heating and air conditioning system diagnosis, repair, and refrigerant handling. Equipment And Accessories: Information related to interior and exterior accessories and their installation/repair. Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine maintenance procedures, fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspections. Repair: Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems. Diagnosis: Troubleshooting guides and diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving issues. Disassembly And Reassembly: Detailed instructions for taking apart and putting back together various components and systems. Wiring Diagrams: Complete electrical wiring diagrams for accurate electrical system diagnosis and repair. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and full rebuilds. 📊 Manual Specifications File Details File Format: PDF Print Quality: High-resolution for clear text and diagrams, suitable for printing. Searchable: Likely searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Family: M20 (Inline-6) and M10 (Inline-4) depending on the specific E30 model variant. Performance Typical Engines For 1990: M20B25 (2.5L Inline-6), M20B27 (2.7L Inline-6, 'eta'), M10B18 (1.8L Inline-4) Example 2.5L I6 Specs: Approx. 168 hp @ 5800 rpm, 164 lb-ft @ 4750 rpm (M20B25) Example 2.7L I6 Specs: Approx. 121 hp @ 4250 rpm, 170 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (M20B27 'eta' - focus on torque) Fuel System Fuel Injection: Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection systems (specific variant depends on engine and market). Fuel Type Fuel Requirement: Unleaded gasoline (typically 91 octane or higher). 🔧 Transmission Standard Manual Transmission: Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission is common on many E30 models. Optional Automatic Transmission: ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission available on select models. Features Clutch Type: Single dry plate, hydraulically operated diaphragm spring clutch. Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW recommends specific manual transmission fluids. Consult manual for exact specifications and capacity (e.g., Pentosin, Red Line MTL). Automatic Transmission Fluid: BMW ATF fluid (e.g., Dexron III equivalent). Consult manual for exact specifications and capacity. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: 2-door sedan (coupe), 4-door sedan, convertible, and convertible-cabriolet. Wheelbase: Approximately 101.2 inches (2570 mm) for sedan/coupe models. Weights Curb Weight: Varies by model, typically ranging from 2,600 to 3,000 lbs (1180 to 1360 kg). 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Testing: While official ratings from modern agencies might not directly apply, the E30 featured significant safety advancements for its era. Active Features Braking System: Discs front, drums rear (standard on many models), with optional ABS on some variants. Consult manual for specific model options. Passive Features Seat Belts: Three-point seat belts. Steering Column: Collapsible steering column for improved impact protection. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with upgraded speaker systems on higher trims. Features: Limited by the era, focused on core audio playback. No integrated navigation or digital displays typical of modern cars. Driver Assistance ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on many E30 models, particularly later ones. Connectivity Connectivity Features: No modern connectivity features such as Bluetooth, USB, or Wi-Fi. Focus is on mechanical and electrical systems. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically...
Approx. 121 hp @ 4250 rpm, 170 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (M20B27 'eta' - focus on torque)
Fuel System
Fuel Injection:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection systems (specific variant depends on engine and market).
Fuel Type
Fuel Requirement:
Unleaded gasoline (typically 91 octane or higher).
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Manual Transmission:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission is common on many E30 models.
Optional
Automatic Transmission:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission available on select models.
Features
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated diaphragm spring clutch.
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends specific manual transmission fluids. Consult manual for exact specifications and capacity (e.g., Pentosin, Red Line MTL).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF fluid (e.g., Dexron III equivalent). Consult manual for exact specifications and capacity.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
2-door sedan (coupe), 4-door sedan, convertible, and convertible-cabriolet.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 101.2 inches (2570 mm) for sedan/coupe models.
Weights
Curb Weight:
Varies by model, typically ranging from 2,600 to 3,000 lbs (1180 to 1360 kg).
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Testing:
While official ratings from modern agencies might not directly apply, the E30 featured significant safety advancements for its era.
Active Features
Braking System:
Discs front, drums rear (standard on many models), with optional ABS on some variants. Consult manual for specific model options.
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts.
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column for improved impact protection.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with upgraded speaker systems on higher trims.
Features:
Limited by the era, focused on core audio playback. No integrated navigation or digital displays typical of modern cars.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on many E30 models, particularly later ones.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features such as Bluetooth, USB, or Wi-Fi. Focus is on mechanical and electrical systems.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for precise interval.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, air filter, and fuel filter checks/replacements recommended at intervals specified in the manual (e.g., every 20,000-30,000 miles).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
BMW High Performance Synthetic Engine Oil, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 is common. Consult manual for specific viscosity and API rating.
Coolant:
BMW Blue or Green coolant (ethylene glycol based) mixed with distilled water. Consult manual for correct mixture ratio and type.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 non-silicone based brake fluid.
Known Issues
Common E30 Issues:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel distributor issues (M20), ignition system components (coil, distributor), worn suspension bushings, rust in common areas (fender wells, rocker panels).
Maintenance Tip:
Regularly inspect the cooling system and replace aging rubber components proactively.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, high-performance vehicles with excellent engineering.
Model Evolution
E30 Generation:
The E30 generation (1982-1994) succeeded the E21 and introduced significant design and engineering advancements, including the iconic M3 variant.
Production
Production Years:
1982-1994 (with 1990 being a mid-to-late production year for the E30 generation).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany, with some production in other BMW facilities globally.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Press:
The E30 series, particularly the M3 variant, is widely acclaimed by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, handling, and performance.
Classic Status:
The E30 is widely considered a modern classic and is highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.