🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 518i Year: 1986 Codes Chassis Code: E28 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Position: The BMW 518i (E28) was positioned as the entry-level sedan in BMW's executive '5 Series' line-up for 1986, offering a balance of performance, luxury, and efficiency. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed with other premium sedans of the era, such as the Mercedes-Benz W123/W124 E-Class, Audi 100, and Jaguar XJ6. Key Features Key Features: Rear-wheel drive, independent suspension, refined engine, focus on driver engagement and build quality. Manual Value Proposition Value Proposition: Essential resource for owners and independent mechanics to maintain, diagnose, and repair the BMW 518i E28, preserving its performance and longevity. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Comprehensive service and repair for BMW 518i (E28) 1986 model year. Page Count Page Count: Estimated 500-700 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era, exact number not provided in product description). Manual Type Manual Type: Service Repair Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Likely Print or Digital (PDF) - original product description does not specify, but common for sales. 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (EFI), ignition system, emission control. Transmission: Manual and Automatic Transmission service, repair, and overhaul. Drivetrain: Clutch, driveshaft, differential, rear axle assembly. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, geometry, adjustments. Steering: Steering gear, power steering system. Brakes: Brake system (front discs, rear drums/discs depending on spec), hydraulic system, parking brake. Electrical: Wiring diagrams, lighting system, starting and charging system, accessories, instrument cluster, control units. Bodywork: Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass, locks, hinges. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common malfunctions, fault finding charts. Repair: Component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation procedures. Diagnostics: Engine diagnostics, electrical system diagnostics, brake system diagnostics. Specifications: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values. Engine Rebuild: Covers complete engine teardown, inspection, machining specifications, and reassembly. Electrical Schematics: Detailed wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems are a critical component of such manuals. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major overhauls and component rebuilds. Diagnostic Tools: Manual likely details use of basic hand tools, multimeters, and potentially specific BMW diagnostic equipment if applicable for the EFI system. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF (if digital) or Printed. Searchability: PDF format typically offers full text search capabilities, enhancing diagnostic efficiency. Print Quality Print Quality: High-quality, clear diagrams and text (typical for professional service manuals). Binding Type Binding Type: Spiral-bound or perfect bound (for printed versions) for lay-flat use in a workshop. Paper Type Paper Type: Durable, often glossy or semi-gloss paper to withstand workshop conditions. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M10B18 (or similar iteration) Engine Type: Inline-4 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated Displacement: 1.8 Liters (1766 cc) Performance Horsepower: Approximately 105-115 PS (metric horsepower) or 102-113 bhp (SAE net), depending on market and specific tune. Torque: Approximately 150-160 Nm (111-118 lb-ft) at around 3000-3500 RPM. Fuel System Fuel Injection: Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI). Ignition System Ignition Type: Distributor-based electronic ignition with knock sensing (depending on exact version). Cooling System Cooling Type: Water-cooled with engine-driven fan and thermostat. Lubrication System Oil Capacity: Approximately 4.25 Liters (4.5 US Quarts) with filter change. Emission Control Emission Features: Catalytic converter (in many markets), exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed manual transmission. Optional Transmission Type: 3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (ZF or Getrag). Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch. Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 GL-4 gear oil (check manual for exact spec). Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron II (or equivalent) ATF. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 inches) Width: Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 inches) Height: Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 inches) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1350-1450 kg (2976-3197 lbs) depending on transmission and equipment. Gross Vehicle Weight: Approx. 1800-1850 kg (3968-4079 lbs). 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Safety Ratings: No formal crash test ratings available from modern agencies for this era of vehicle, but BMW had a reputation for robust build quality. Active Features Active Safety: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - optional on many models, power-assisted steering, disc brakes front and rear (depending on variant). Passive Features Passive Safety: Crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell, padded interior surfaces, three-point seat belts. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Basic analog radio, cassette player, and often manual climate controls. Optional features might include power windows and mirrors. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: Limited by modern standards; ABS was an optional safety feature. Focus was on mechanical systems and driver feedback. Connectivity Connectivity Options: No integrated connectivity like Bluetooth or USB; external phone kits might have been retrofitted. 🔧...
The BMW 518i (E28) was positioned as the entry-level sedan in BMW's executive '5 Series' line-up for 1986, offering a balance of performance, luxury, and efficiency.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed with other premium sedans of the era, such as the Mercedes-Benz W123/W124 E-Class, Audi 100, and Jaguar XJ6.
Key Features
Key Features:
Rear-wheel drive, independent suspension, refined engine, focus on driver engagement and build quality.
Manual Value Proposition
Value Proposition:
Essential resource for owners and independent mechanics to maintain, diagnose, and repair the BMW 518i E28, preserving its performance and longevity.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive service and repair for BMW 518i (E28) 1986 model year.
Page Count
Page Count:
Estimated 500-700 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era, exact number not provided in product description).
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Likely Print or Digital (PDF) - original product description does not specify, but common for sales.
Basic analog radio, cassette player, and often manual climate controls. Optional features might include power windows and mirrors.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards; ABS was an optional safety feature. Focus was on mechanical systems and driver feedback.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
No integrated connectivity like Bluetooth or USB; external phone kits might have been retrofitted.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact schedule).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km).
Timing Belt Chain:
M10 engine uses a timing chain, which is generally durable but requires inspection for wear and tension.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 API SF/SG rated oil (check manual for exact specification and viscosity recommendations based on climate).
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Fuel injectors (EFI), ignition components (coil, distributor), fuel pumps, suspension bushings, exhaust system, cooling system components (radiator, hoses, water pump).
Engine Performance Issues:
Poor starting, rough idle, misfires often related to fuel delivery or ignition system degradation.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corrosion in electrical connectors, aging wiring harnesses, and failing relays can cause intermittent issues.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is a German luxury and performance automobile manufacturer with a long history of engineering excellence and sporting heritage.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution E28:
The E28 generation (1981-1988) was the second generation of the 5 Series and a significant evolution from the E12, featuring improved aerodynamics, updated styling, and advanced technologies for its time.
Production
Production Period:
The E28 generation was produced from 1981 to 1988. The 518i was a variant offered in specific markets, particularly Europe.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Historical Recognition:
While specific awards for the '518i' model might not be widely documented, the E28 5 Series generation was generally well-received for its driving dynamics and build quality, contributing to BMW's reputation as a premier automotive brand.