๐ท๏ธ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Model Generations Covered: E30 Model Years Covered: 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990 Codes Chassis Code: E30 ๐ Introduction Market Position Historical Significance: The E30 3 Series cemented BMW's reputation for producing sporting sedans and coupes, offering a compelling blend of performance, handling, and practicality. It competed with marques like Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Alfa Romeo. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz W201 (190E), Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75 Key Features Driving Dynamics: Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and rear-wheel-drive platform, offering an engaging driving experience. Design Philosophy: Classic BMW design language, with a focus on driver ergonomics and functional aesthetics. ๐ Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Full Service Repair and Maintenance Page Count Estimated Page Count: 800-1200 Manual Type Manual Type: Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (PDF) ๐ Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Engine mechanical, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, cooling, lubrication Transmission Systems: Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch system, drivetrain Suspension Steering Brakes: Front and rear suspension, steering system, brake system (hydraulic, mechanical components, ABS if applicable) Electrical Systems: Wiring diagrams, lighting, charging system, starting system, instrumentation, power accessories Body And Chassis: Body panel repair, interior trim, glass, seals, chassis lubrication Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement Major Repairs: Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system overhaul, suspension component replacement Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common malfunctions, symptom-based troubleshooting guides Component Replacement: Step-by-step instructions for replacing individual components (e.g., alternator, water pump, starter motor, brake calipers) Technical Depth Diagnostic Capabilities: Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, component testing procedures, fault code interpretation (OBD I era) Rebuild Instructions: Comprehensive instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and other major components, including torque specifications and clearances Wiring Diagrams: Detailed, component-level electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems ๐ Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval Print Quality: High-resolution scans, suitable for printing individual pages or sections Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital) โ๏ธ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Examples: M10 (4-cylinder, e.g., 318i), M20 (6-cylinder, e.g., 325i, 325e) Engine Displacements Offered: 1.8L, 2.0L, 2.5L, 2.7L (depending on market and model) Performance Horsepower Range: Approx. 105 hp (318i) to 170 hp (325i) Torque Range: Approx. 105 lb-ft (318i) to 155 lb-ft (325i) Fuel System Fuel Injection: Bosch L-Jetronic, Motronic (engine control units) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (premium recommended) ๐ง Transmission Standard Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission (Getrag) Optional Optional Transmission Type: 3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (ZF) Features Clutch Type: Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated Differential Options: Open differential, optional limited-slip differential (LSD) ๐ Dimensions Exterior Body Styles Offered: 2-door sedan (Saloon), 4-door sedan (Saloon), convertible, coupe, wagon (Touring - later models, may not be fully covered in all manuals) Weights Curb Weight Range: Approx. 2500-3000 lbs (1135-1360 kg) ๐ก๏ธ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Performance: Reflects safety standards of the era; may not have modern standardized ratings. Focus on occupant protection features of the time. Active Features Braking System: Front discs, rear drums (standard on many models), optional rear discs on performance variants. ABS available on some models later in production. Passive Features Seat Belts: Three-point seat belts with pretensionsers available. Chassis Structure: Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones. ๐ก Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory-installed cassette players, optional CD players, basic speaker systems. Climate Control: Manual HVAC systems, optional air conditioning. Driver Assistance Anti Lock Brakes: Optional ABS on select models, primarily later production years. Connectivity Auxiliary Inputs: None from factory; aftermarket solutions required for modern device connectivity. ๐ง Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Refer to specific model year recommendations. Timing Belt Replacement: For M20 engines, typically every 50,000-60,000 miles or 5 years. M10 engines use a timing chain. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3 rated, viscosity typically 15W-40 or 10W-40 for older models, 5W-30 or 5W-40 for later and colder climates. Consult manual for exact specs. Coolant Type: Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically blue or green. BMW recommends specific G48 coolant or equivalent. Transmission Fluid: Manual: GL-4 rated gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90). Automatic: Dexron II or III equivalent. Known Issues Common Wear Items: Suspension bushings (control arms, sway bars), fuel injectors, fuel pumps, ignition coils, cooling system components (radiator, water pump, hoses). Rust Prone Areas: Fender arches, rocker panels, battery tray area, rear quarter panels, sunroof drains. Engine Specific Issues: M20 starter motor heat soak, M10 head gasket issues if overheated. ๐ Vehicle History Brand Heritage Bmw Legacy: BMW has a long history of producing driver-focused vehicles, building on its pre-war and post-war engineering prowess. Model Evolution E30 Predecessor:...
The E30 3 Series cemented BMW's reputation for producing sporting sedans and coupes, offering a compelling blend of performance, handling, and practicality. It competed with marques like Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Alfa Romeo.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W201 (190E), Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75
Key Features
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and rear-wheel-drive platform, offering an engaging driving experience.
Design Philosophy:
Classic BMW design language, with a focus on driver ergonomics and functional aesthetics.
1.8L, 2.0L, 2.5L, 2.7L (depending on market and model)
Performance
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 105 hp (318i) to 170 hp (325i)
Torque Range:
Approx. 105 lb-ft (318i) to 155 lb-ft (325i)
Fuel System
Fuel Injection:
Bosch L-Jetronic, Motronic (engine control units)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (premium recommended)
๐ง Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission Type:
4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission (Getrag)
Optional
Optional Transmission Type:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (ZF)
Features
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated
Differential Options:
Open differential, optional limited-slip differential (LSD)
๐ Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles Offered:
2-door sedan (Saloon), 4-door sedan (Saloon), convertible, coupe, wagon (Touring - later models, may not be fully covered in all manuals)
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2500-3000 lbs (1135-1360 kg)
๐ก๏ธ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Performance:
Reflects safety standards of the era; may not have modern standardized ratings. Focus on occupant protection features of the time.
Active Features
Braking System:
Front discs, rear drums (standard on many models), optional rear discs on performance variants. ABS available on some models later in production.
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensionsers available.
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory-installed cassette players, optional CD players, basic speaker systems.
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC systems, optional air conditioning.
Driver Assistance
Anti Lock Brakes:
Optional ABS on select models, primarily later production years.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Inputs:
None from factory; aftermarket solutions required for modern device connectivity.
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Refer to specific model year recommendations.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For M20 engines, typically every 50,000-60,000 miles or 5 years. M10 engines use a timing chain.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3 rated, viscosity typically 15W-40 or 10W-40 for older models, 5W-30 or 5W-40 for later and colder climates. Consult manual for exact specs.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically blue or green. BMW recommends specific G48 coolant or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid:
Manual: GL-4 rated gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90). Automatic: Dexron II or III equivalent.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Suspension bushings (control arms, sway bars), fuel injectors, fuel pumps, ignition coils, cooling system components (radiator, water pump, hoses).
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and sport-sedan credentials. Named to Car and Driver's Ten Best list multiple times.
Ratings
Track Day Reputation:
Highly regarded in enthusiast circles for its capability as a track-day car, especially the E30 M3 variant.
Certifications
Value Retention:
Well-maintained E30 models, particularly desirable variants, have shown strong value retention and appreciation among collectors.