๐ท๏ธ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 528i Chassis Code: E28 Generation Generation Designation: E28 Codes Production Years Covered: 1981-1988 ๐ Introduction Market Position Target Audience: Professional BMW technicians, independent repair shops, serious DIY enthusiasts with mechanical aptitude. Competitive Analysis Value Proposition: Provides factory-level repair information, crucial for maintaining and repairing the E28 platform accurately and efficiently, saving on dealership labor costs. Key Features Authenticity: Represents original BMW workshop documentation used by authorized service centers. Detail Level: Features step-by-step instructions and detailed diagrams, often including torque specifications, tolerances, and specialized procedures. ๐ Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Workshop Service and Repair Manual Language: English Format: Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Varies based on specific edition, typically 500-1000+ pages for comprehensive workshop manuals ๐ Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete engine overhaul, including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system. Engine Management And Fuel: Fuel injection systems (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic variants), ignition systems, emissions control systems, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics and troubleshooting. Transmission Manual: Manual gearbox overhaul, clutch system, driveshafts, differential. Gear ratios, fluid types, and fill capacities. Transmission Automatic: Automatic transmission overhaul (ZF 4HP series likely), torque converter, hydraulic control, shift solenoids, fluid types, and fill capacities. Suspension And Steering: Front and rear suspension components (MacPherson struts, independent rear suspension), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering rack, power steering system. Brakes: Disc brake systems (front and rear), hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) if equipped, parking brake. Electrical System: Complete wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems, power windows, mirrors, central locking, instrument cluster, fuse box diagrams. Body And Chassis: Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass, seals, underbody protection, chassis component repairs, rust prevention and treatment. Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning: HVAC system operation, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant system, climate control module (if applicable). Procedures Included Preventative Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement, brake pad/rotor inspection. Troubleshooting Diagnostics: Systematic troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic codes, fault finding procedures for engine, transmission, electrical, and chassis systems. Component Repair And Rebuild: Detailed step-by-step instructions for removing, overhauling, and reinstalling major components like engines, transmissions, differentials, brake calipers, alternators, starters. Adjustments And Calibrations: Valve adjustments, idle speed settings, ignition timing (where applicable), wheel alignment specifications, brake adjustments. Special Tools: Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs and diagnostics. Technical Depth Depth Of Information: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications and diagnostic procedures. ๐ Manual Specifications File Format Document Format: Likely PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing. Potential for text searchability. Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations. Professional dealership quality. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Download) โ๏ธ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Examples: M30B34 (for 535i), M20B27 (for 528e/525e). Note: 528i designation in North America often referred to models with M30 engines, but internationally and for earlier E28s, the 'i' signified fuel injection. The E28 '528i' (post-1981 E12 derivative) typically used the M30B28 engine, while the E28 chassis with the M20 engine was often designated 525i or 528e (eta engine). This manual likely covers the M30 variants predominantly used in '528i' badged cars. Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (M30 engine) Performance Horsepower M30B28: Approximately 182 hp (DIN) / 177 hp (SAE) for the M30B28 engine Torque M30B28: Approximately 230-245 Nm (170-181 lb-ft) for the M30B28 engine Fuel System Fuel Injection System: Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic (depending on year and specific model variant) Fuel Type: Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 RON or higher) ๐ง Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission (Getrag) Optional Optional Transmission: 3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (ZF) Features Clutch Type: Single dry plate, hydraulically operated ๐ Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase E28: 2794 mm (110.0 inches) Length E28: 4740 mm (186.6 inches) Width E28: 1700 mm (66.9 inches) Height E28: 1415 mm (55.7 inches) Weights Curb Weight Approx: 1400-1550 kg (3086-3417 lbs), depending on engine and options ๐ก๏ธ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data: Limited official crash test data publicly available from this era. However, E28 BMWs were known for robust chassis construction and safety features for their time. Active Features ABS: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models. Passive Features Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for front and rear occupants. Body Structure: Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones. ๐ก Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional upgraded sound systems from Blaupunkt or Becker available. Driver Assistance ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (optional feature on select models). Connectivity Factory Features: Power windows, power mirrors, central locking, cruise control (optional). ๐ง Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000...
Professional BMW technicians, independent repair shops, serious DIY enthusiasts with mechanical aptitude.
Competitive Analysis
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair information, crucial for maintaining and repairing the E28 platform accurately and efficiently, saving on dealership labor costs.
Key Features
Authenticity:
Represents original BMW workshop documentation used by authorized service centers.
Detail Level:
Features step-by-step instructions and detailed diagrams, often including torque specifications, tolerances, and specialized procedures.
๐ Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Manual Type:
Workshop Service and Repair Manual
Language:
English
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Varies based on specific edition, typically 500-1000+ pages for comprehensive workshop manuals
Fuel injection systems (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic variants), ignition systems, emissions control systems, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Transmission Manual:
Manual gearbox overhaul, clutch system, driveshafts, differential. Gear ratios, fluid types, and fill capacities.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission overhaul (ZF 4HP series likely), torque converter, hydraulic control, shift solenoids, fluid types, and fill capacities.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (MacPherson struts, independent rear suspension), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering rack, power steering system.
Brakes:
Disc brake systems (front and rear), hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) if equipped, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems, power windows, mirrors, central locking, instrument cluster, fuse box diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass, seals, underbody protection, chassis component repairs, rust prevention and treatment.
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC system operation, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant system, climate control module (if applicable).
Procedures Included
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement, brake pad/rotor inspection.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic codes, fault finding procedures for engine, transmission, electrical, and chassis systems.
Component Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for removing, overhauling, and reinstalling major components like engines, transmissions, differentials, brake calipers, alternators, starters.
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs and diagnostics.
Technical Depth
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications and diagnostic procedures.
๐ Manual Specifications
File Format
Document Format:
Likely PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing. Potential for text searchability.
Print Quality
Image Resolution:
High-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations. Professional dealership quality.
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Download)
โ๏ธ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code Examples:
M30B34 (for 535i), M20B27 (for 528e/525e). Note: 528i designation in North America often referred to models with M30 engines, but internationally and for earlier E28s, the 'i' signified fuel injection. The E28 '528i' (post-1981 E12 derivative) typically used the M30B28 engine, while the E28 chassis with the M20 engine was often designated 525i or 528e (eta engine). This manual likely covers the M30 variants predominantly used in '528i' badged cars.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (M30 engine)
Performance
Horsepower M30B28:
Approximately 182 hp (DIN) / 177 hp (SAE) for the M30B28 engine
Torque M30B28:
Approximately 230-245 Nm (170-181 lb-ft) for the M30B28 engine
Fuel System
Fuel Injection System:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic (depending on year and specific model variant)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 RON or higher)
๐ง Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission (Getrag)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (ZF)
Features
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated
๐ Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase E28:
2794 mm (110.0 inches)
Length E28:
4740 mm (186.6 inches)
Width E28:
1700 mm (66.9 inches)
Height E28:
1415 mm (55.7 inches)
Weights
Curb Weight Approx:
1400-1550 kg (3086-3417 lbs), depending on engine and options
๐ก๏ธ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data publicly available from this era. However, E28 BMWs were known for robust chassis construction and safety features for their time.
Active Features
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for front and rear occupants.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional upgraded sound systems from Blaupunkt or Becker available.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (optional feature on select models).
Connectivity
Factory Features:
Power windows, power mirrors, central locking, cruise control (optional).
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km), depending on spark plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum).
Timing Belt Replacement:
M20 engine uses a timing belt; M30 engine uses a timing chain. For M20, replacement typically every 50,000-60,000 miles (80,000-100,000 km). Manual will confirm specific intervals and procedure.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 recommended depending on climate. Manual will provide exact BMW Longlife specifications.
Coolant Specification:
BMW recommended coolant (blue or green ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
BMW's continued commitment to 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' emphasizing performance, handling, and driver engagement.
Model Evolution
E28 Positioning:
Successor to the E12, the E28 was BMW's second generation of the 5 Series executive sedan. Known for its sharper styling, improved aerodynamics, and more sophisticated engineering.
Key Variants:
Included the M535i and the iconic E28 M5 (S38 engine).
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Dingolfing plant).
Production Figures Approx:
Over 720,000 units produced across all E28 variants worldwide.
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Press Reviews:
The E28 generation received widespread critical acclaim for its driving dynamics, build quality, and performance, often lauded by automotive publications of the era for being a benchmark in its class.
Ratings
Reliability Reputation:
Generally considered reliable when properly maintained, though vintage car maintenance is always a factor. The M30 engine is known for its robustness.