🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 5-series Chassis Code: E28 Model Year: 1985 Market Segment: Executive Sedan 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The E28 5-series represented BMW's commitment to sporting luxury and driving dynamics in the executive sedan segment, directly competing with Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi 100/200. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Mercedes-Benz W124 (E-Class), Audi Type 44 (100/200), Volvo 700 Series, Jaguar XJ Key Features Driving Dynamics: Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and rear-wheel-drive bias, offering a superior driving experience compared to many contemporaries. Build Quality: Exemplified BMW's reputation for robust engineering and high-quality materials, leading to excellent longevity when properly maintained. Manual Utility Value Proposition: Provides the exact technical information needed to maintain, diagnose, and repair the BMW E28, empowering owners and independent specialists with dealership-level knowledge. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Comprehensive Coverage: All Models & All Repairs A-Z Page Count Estimated Page Count: Over 800 pages (typical for comprehensive factory manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Print (likely bound, possibly comb or spiral bound for ease of use in a workshop) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine overhaul, assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, timing systems, valve train Engine Management: Fuel injection systems (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic variants), ignition systems, emission controls, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics and repair Transmission Manual: Clutch system, gearbox overhaul, shifting mechanisms, lubrication Transmission Automatic: Automatic transmission disassembly, assembly, hydraulic control, torque converter, valve body, troubleshooting Suspension: Front and rear suspension systems, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, anti-roll bars, alignment specifications Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, lubrication, troubleshooting Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake calipers, brake pads, rotors, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake Electrical System: Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, ignition system, lighting system, instrumentation, horn, power windows, mirrors, central locking Body And Chassis: Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, glass, seals, chassis lubrication, rust prevention Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning: HVAC system components, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant circuits, climate control panel Procedures Included Basic Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and adjustment Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides Repair Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul Rebuild Procedures: Detailed instructions for complete engine, transmission, and major component rebuilds Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems Technical Depth Depth: Factory-level diagnostic and repair information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format Quality: N/A (Assumed Print Format) Print Quality Print Quality: High-resolution text and diagrams, designed for clarity in a workshop environment Binding Type Binding: Likely perfect bound or spiral/comb bound for durability and lay-flat usability Paper Type Paper Type: Durable, high-quality paper stock, resistant to workshop grease and oils ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Codes Covered: M30 (e.g., 528e, 533i, 535i) and M10/M20 (e.g., 524d, 525e, 528i, 535i - specific to 1985 model year variants) M30 Engine Variants: 2.8L (M30B28), 3.2L (M30B32), 3.4L (M30B34) M20 Engine Variants: 2.7L (M20B27 'Eta'), 2.5L (M20B25), 2.8L (M20B28) M10 Engine Variants: 2.4L Diesel (M21D24 - for 524d) Performance Typical Horsepower Range: 120 hp (520i) to 211 hp (M535i/535i) Typical Torque Range: 164 lb-ft (520i) to 224 lb-ft (535i) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch L-Jetronic, LE-Jetronic, or Motronic fuel injection systems depending on engine and market. Carbureted versions were less common in North America. Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating specifications detailed in manual) Engine Construction Block Material: Cast Iron Cylinder Head Material: Aluminum Alloy 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed or 5-speed Getrag manual transmission Optional Optional Transmission Type: ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch Driveshaft: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW recommended gear oil specifications (e.g., GL-4 rated, viscosity grade as per manual) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron-II or equivalent ATF fluid 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4700-4750 mm (185-187 in) Width: Approx. 1700-1720 mm (67-67.7 in) Height: Approx. 1410-1430 mm (55.5-56.3 in) Wheelbase: Approx. 2795 mm (110 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1400-1550 kg (3086-3417 lbs) depending on engine and equipment Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Refer to vehicle placard or manual for specific GVWR 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data: As a vehicle from 1985, formal NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings in the modern sense are not available. E28 was engineered with significant safety considerations for its era, including a safety-cell design and impact-absorbing zones. Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional on some models and standard on higher trims or later production. Passive Features Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts Head Restraints: Height-adjustable front and rear head restraints Steering Column: Collapsible steering column...
The E28 5-series represented BMW's commitment to sporting luxury and driving dynamics in the executive sedan segment, directly competing with Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi 100/200.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 (E-Class), Audi Type 44 (100/200), Volvo 700 Series, Jaguar XJ
Key Features
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and rear-wheel-drive bias, offering a superior driving experience compared to many contemporaries.
Build Quality:
Exemplified BMW's reputation for robust engineering and high-quality materials, leading to excellent longevity when properly maintained.
Manual Utility
Value Proposition:
Provides the exact technical information needed to maintain, diagnose, and repair the BMW E28, empowering owners and independent specialists with dealership-level knowledge.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Comprehensive Coverage:
All Models & All Repairs A-Z
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Over 800 pages (typical for comprehensive factory manuals of this era)
Manual Type
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Print (likely bound, possibly comb or spiral bound for ease of use in a workshop)
HVAC system components, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant circuits, climate control panel
Procedures Included
Basic Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and adjustment
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for complete engine, transmission, and major component rebuilds
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Technical Depth
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format Quality:
N/A (Assumed Print Format)
Print Quality
Print Quality:
High-resolution text and diagrams, designed for clarity in a workshop environment
Binding Type
Binding:
Likely perfect bound or spiral/comb bound for durability and lay-flat usability
Paper Type
Paper Type:
Durable, high-quality paper stock, resistant to workshop grease and oils
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Codes Covered:
M30 (e.g., 528e, 533i, 535i) and M10/M20 (e.g., 524d, 525e, 528i, 535i - specific to 1985 model year variants)
M30 Engine Variants:
2.8L (M30B28), 3.2L (M30B32), 3.4L (M30B34)
M20 Engine Variants:
2.7L (M20B27 'Eta'), 2.5L (M20B25), 2.8L (M20B28)
M10 Engine Variants:
2.4L Diesel (M21D24 - for 524d)
Performance
Typical Horsepower Range:
120 hp (520i) to 211 hp (M535i/535i)
Typical Torque Range:
164 lb-ft (520i) to 224 lb-ft (535i)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic, LE-Jetronic, or Motronic fuel injection systems depending on engine and market. Carbureted versions were less common in North America.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating specifications detailed in manual)
Engine Construction
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission Type:
4-speed or 5-speed Getrag manual transmission
Optional
Optional Transmission Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission
Features
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Driveshaft:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommended gear oil specifications (e.g., GL-4 rated, viscosity grade as per manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-II or equivalent ATF fluid
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 4700-4750 mm (185-187 in)
Width:
Approx. 1700-1720 mm (67-67.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1410-1430 mm (55.5-56.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2795 mm (110 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1400-1550 kg (3086-3417 lbs) depending on engine and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle placard or manual for specific GVWR
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
As a vehicle from 1985, formal NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings in the modern sense are not available. E28 was engineered with significant safety considerations for its era, including a safety-cell design and impact-absorbing zones.
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional on some models and standard on higher trims or later production.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts
Head Restraints:
Height-adjustable front and rear head restraints
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column for improved impact protection
Fuel Tank Protection:
Protected fuel tank design
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player, often with premium sound options from manufacturers like Blaupunkt or Becker.
Instrument Cluster:
Comprehensive analog gauges including tachometer, speedometer, fuel level, engine temperature, and oil pressure. Check control panel for system status alerts.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional electronic cruise control system
Connectivity
Features:
In 1985, connectivity was limited to basic automotive electronics. Later models offered optional features like onboard computers.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual will provide specific guidance.
Timing Belt Replacement:
The M30 and M20 engines use timing chains, which are generally considered lifetime components but require inspection for stretch or wear. The M21 diesel engine uses a timing belt with a recommended replacement interval (refer to manual).
Refer to manual for viscosity grade (e.g., 10W-40, 20W-50) and API service classification. Often specified as BMW High Performance or equivalent.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. BMW Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Known Issues
Rust Susceptibility:
Common rust areas include wheel arches, rocker panels, door bottoms, and rear valence. Thorough inspection and preventative treatment are key.
Cooling System Leaks:
Degradation of hoses, radiator, and water pump seals due to age. Expansion tank, thermostat housing, and heater core are common failure points.
Fuel Injector Seals:
Leaking injector seals can cause rough idle and fuel smell, particularly on early Motronic systems.
Rear Axle Bushings:
Wear in the rear subframe mounting bushings and trailing arm bushings can lead to poor handling and clunking noises.
Window Regulators:
Electric and manual window regulators can become stiff or break with age.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused sedans with superior handling and engineering prowess, a lineage the E28 significantly contributed to.
Model Evolution
Predecessor:
BMW E12 (First generation 5-series)
Successor:
BMW E34 (Second generation 5-series)
Production
Production Years:
1981-1988 (E28 platform)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing plant primarily), South Africa, Mexico, Thailand, Egypt, Indonesia, Malaysia
Notable Variants
E28 M5:
The E28 chassis also housed the legendary M5 (E28S) variant, powered by the M88/3 engine, considered one of the finest sports sedans of its era.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Critical Acclaim:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and refined engineering, cementing BMW's reputation in the executive sedan market.
Ratings
Reliability Perception:
While requiring diligent maintenance, E28s are known for their robust mechanicals and ability to achieve high mileage when cared for, often perceived as a reliable German car.
Certifications
Manufacturing Standards:
Built to stringent German automotive manufacturing standards, emphasizing durability and precision.