🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 5 Series Model Variant: 518i Generation Generation Code: E28 Codes Chassis Code: E28 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Mid-size luxury/executive sedan. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz W123/W124 E-Class, Audi 100, Volvo 240/740, Jaguar XJ (XJ40), Cadillac Sedan de Ville (in some markets). Key Features Vehicle Strengths: Renowned BMW driving dynamics, robust engineering, refined interior, high-quality materials, durable powertrain. Manual Value Proposition Manual Benefit: Empowers owners and independent mechanics with the official factory-level information needed for accurate diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of the E28 518i. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Years: 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991 Page Count Estimated Pages: Approx. 300-500 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Full Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (likely PDF), potentially Printable 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Mechanical Systems: Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Transmission, Drivetrain, Steering, Suspension, Brakes, Wheels & Tires Electrical Systems: Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Wipers & Washers, Horn, Radio/Audio System, Fuses & Relays, Wiring Diagrams Body And Chassis: Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, HVAC System Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Oil Change, Filter Replacements (Oil, Air, Fuel), Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flush, Brake Fluid Flush, Belt Inspection/Replacement, Routine Inspections Repair Procedures: Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake Caliper/Disc Service, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Rack Repair, Fuel Injector Servicing, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement Troubleshooting: Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Common Fault Identification Technical Depth Depth Of Information: Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF (Portable Document Format), likely searchable and printable. Print Quality Quality Expectation: High Resolution scans of original factory manuals, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text. Binding Type Binding For Print: If printed: Coil-bound or perfect-bound for lay-flat use in a workshop environment. Paper Type Paper Quality For Print: If printed: Durable, possibly laminated pages for workshop resistance. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M10B18 (early models), M40B18 (later models) Engine Type: Inline-4 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated Displacement: 1.8 Liters (1766 cc) Performance Horsepower: Approx. 90-102 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm (depending on specific market and engine variant) Torque: Approx. 104-114 lb-ft @ 3200-3500 rpm (depending on specific market and engine variant) Fuel System Injection Type: Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic Fuel Injection (depending on year and market) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91-95 recommended) Engine Components Block Material: Cast Iron Head Material: Aluminum Alloy Timing Drive: Chain (M10), Belt (M40) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Std: 4-Speed Manual Optional Transmission Type Opt: 3-Speed ZF Automatic (common) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulic Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil (refer to manual for exact BMW spec) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron III or equivalent ATF fluid (refer to manual for exact BMW spec) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 in) Width: Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in) Height: Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in) Wheelbase Wheelbase: Approx. 2770 mm (109.1 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs), varies with equipment Gross Vehicle Weight: Approx. 1800 kg (3968 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Safety Era: Designed to pre-date modern comprehensive crash testing standards, but featured robust crumple zones and safety cage construction for its time. Active Features Braking System: Front Ventilated Disc Brakes, Rear Solid Disc Brakes. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on later models. Passive Features Seat Belts: Three-point inertia-reel seat belts at front and rear seating positions. Steering Column: Collapsible steering column for improved driver protection in frontal impacts. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory fitted radio/cassette player (e.g., Blaupunkt, Grundig) with optional amplifier. Speaker configurations varied. Driver Assistance ABS: Optional on many models, providing enhanced braking control. Connectivity Connectivity Era: Minimal by modern standards. No onboard computers or integrated infotainment systems beyond the basic audio. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Spark Plug Replacement: Every 20,000-40,000 km (12,000-25,000 miles), depending on plug type. Timing Belt Replacement: For M40 engines: Every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles) or 3-4 years. For M10 (chain): Generally lifetime, but check for tensioner wear. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Spec: API SG/SH, ACEA A2/A3, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact BMW approval, e.g., BMW Longlife-98 for later specs if applicable, though unlikely for 518i). Coolant Spec: Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW P/N 82 14 1 467 703 (G48 type for later BMWs, but a standard green silicate-based or later phosphate-based coolant acceptable). Fluid Capacities Engine Oil Capacity: Approx. 4.0-4.5 Liters (4.2-4.8 US Quarts) with filter change. Known Issues...