🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 5 Series Model Code: E28 Variant: 518 Production Years Covered: 1981-1985 Codes Chassis Code: E28 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Executive/Luxury Sedan Target Audience: Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops seeking detailed information for the E28 5 Series Competitive Analysis Competitors: Mercedes-Benz W123, Audi 100, Volvo 240, Jaguar XJ Key Features Vehicle Reputation: Known for robust engineering, excellent handling, and driver-focused cockpit, often referred to as a 'driver's car' Manual Value Proposition: Provides the necessary technical knowledge to maintain and repair this classic BMW, preserving its performance and value. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Engine Systems: Engine mechanicals, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system Transmission Systems: Manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch, driveshafts Chassis Systems: Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (disc and drum), wheel alignment Electrical Systems: Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, instruments, accessories Body And Trim: Body panel repair, interior trim, doors, windows, bumpers, body sealing Page Count Estimated Pages: Hundreds (specific number not provided, but typical for a comprehensive manual) Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Detailed overhaul procedures for M10B18 engine, including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, and timing components Fuel And Ignition: Component testing and adjustment for Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection systems, ignition timing, spark plug specifications Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications and flush procedures Exhaust System: Catalytic converter (if applicable), muffler, exhaust manifold, leak testing Transmission Manual: Clutch replacement, gearbox disassembly and reassembly, shift linkage adjustments Transmission Automatic: Transmission fluid change and level check, basic troubleshooting, band and clutch adjustments (if applicable) Drivetrain: Driveshaft U-joints, CV joints (if applicable), differential oil change Front Suspension: MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar maintenance, spring replacement Rear Suspension: Semi-trailing arm, shock absorbers, bushings, differential mounting Steering System: Power steering pump, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column maintenance Brake System: Front and rear brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures, parking brake adjustment Electrical Components: Alternator, starter motor, battery testing and replacement, fuse box layout and function Lighting System: Headlight, taillight, interior lighting bulb replacement and aiming procedures Instrument Panel: Gauge cluster removal and repair, warning light diagnostics Climate Control: Heater core, ventilation system, refrigerant (R12) and AC system basic service (if applicable) Body Structure: Unibody construction, jacking points, structural reinforcement locations Exterior Body: Door panel removal, window regulator repair, hood and trunk latch adjustment, mirror replacement Interior Trim: Seat removal and upholstery repair, dashboard disassembly, carpet replacement Procedures Included Preventative Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and flushes, belt inspections, spark plug replacement, air filter service Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnosis of common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (if applicable), symptom-based troubleshooting guides Repair Overhaul: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle systems Adjustment Calibration: Valve lash adjustment, idle speed setting, ignition timing, brake adjustment, clutch play adjustment Electrical Diagnostics: Wiring diagram interpretation, multimeter usage for testing circuits, component testing procedures Wheel Alignment: Specifications for camber, caster, and toe, adjustment procedures Lubrication: Lubrication points and recommended lubricants for various chassis components Safety Systems: Seatbelt operation and maintenance, basic understanding of passive safety features Technical Depth Detail Level: Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds Diagnostic Capabilities: Detailed troubleshooting flowcharts and component testing procedures, often utilizing basic diagnostic tools like multimeters and timing lights Rebuild Procedures: Full disassembly and reassembly instructions for major mechanical components including engine, gearbox, and differential Special Tools: Identification and usage of specific BMW special tools required for certain repair procedures 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Likely text-searchable if it's a well-created digital PDF Print Quality Image Resolution: Variable, but typically good for clear diagrams and illustrations Diagrams Illustrations: Includes detailed technical drawings and exploded views of components Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF format) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital PDF format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M10B18 Engine Type: Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC Displacement: 1.8 Liters (1766 cc) Bore X Stroke: 89.0 mm x 71.0 mm Compression Ratio: 8.3:1 (typical, may vary slightly) Performance Horsepower: 90 PS (66 kW; 89 hp) at 5500 rpm (approximate) Torque: 140 Nm (103 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm (approximate) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (RON 95 or higher recommended) Engine Management Ignition System: Electronic ignition (breakerless) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 4-speed manual Optional Type: Getrag 4-speed or ZF 3-speed automatic transmission Features Clutch: Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch Manual Gear Ratios: Specific ratios are detailed in the manual, but typically around 3.72:1 for 1st gear. Fluid Specification Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW recommends specific gear oil, often a GL-4 rated SAE 75W-90 or...
Specifications for camber, caster, and toe, adjustment procedures
Lubrication:
Lubrication points and recommended lubricants for various chassis components
Safety Systems:
Seatbelt operation and maintenance, basic understanding of passive safety features
Technical Depth
Detail Level:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed troubleshooting flowcharts and component testing procedures, often utilizing basic diagnostic tools like multimeters and timing lights
Rebuild Procedures:
Full disassembly and reassembly instructions for major mechanical components including engine, gearbox, and differential
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specific BMW special tools required for certain repair procedures
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable if it's a well-created digital PDF
Print Quality
Image Resolution:
Variable, but typically good for clear diagrams and illustrations
Diagrams Illustrations:
Includes detailed technical drawings and exploded views of components
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
M10B18
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.0 mm x 71.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.3:1 (typical, may vary slightly)
Performance
Horsepower:
90 PS (66 kW; 89 hp) at 5500 rpm (approximate)
Torque:
140 Nm (103 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm (approximate)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 95 or higher recommended)
Engine Management
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition (breakerless)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
4-speed manual
Optional
Type:
Getrag 4-speed or ZF 3-speed automatic transmission
Features
Clutch:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios are detailed in the manual, but typically around 3.72:1 for 1st gear.
Fluid Specification
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends specific gear oil, often a GL-4 rated SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-II or equivalent ATF
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4620 mm (181.9 in)
Width:
1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
1415 mm (55.7 in)
Wheelbase:
2770 mm (109.1 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1350 kg (2866-2976 lbs) depending on transmission and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically listed in consumer specs, but detailed in service manuals for load limits.
Interior
Seating Capacity:
5
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
Vehicle safety standards were different in the early 1980s; detailed crash test data is limited compared to modern vehicles.
Active Features
Braking System:
Front ventilated disc brakes, rear solid disc brakes (or drum brakes on some early models/markets).
Steering Type:
Recirculating ball with power assist
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, 2-point rear seatbelts (later models may have 3-point rear)
Body Construction:
Unitary body with integral safety cage, crumple zones
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Original systems were typically AM/FM radio with cassette players, often from Blaupunkt or Becker. Aftermarket upgrades are common.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional on many E28 models, particularly later ones.
Connectivity
Features:
Limited to basic vehicle functions. No factory connectivity options as understood today.
🔧 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. Manual will provide exact BMW recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or at around 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km), depending on spark plug type.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 2 years, regardless of mileage, to prevent moisture absorption.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 typically recommended for the M10 engine. Consult manual for precise BMW specs.
Coolant Type:
BMW coolant or a high-quality ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Known Issues
Common Problems E28:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses), fuel distributor issues (L-Jetronic), dashboard cracking, door seal degradation, rear axle bushings, subframe mounts, starter motor failure.
Engine M10:
Can be robust but prone to oil leaks with age, timing chain stretch (if not properly maintained), and fuel injection system component wear.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, emphasizing performance and engineering.
Model Evolution
E28 Introduction:
The E28 generation succeeded the E12 5 Series and was produced from 1981 to 1988, with the 518 being an entry-level model in many markets.
E28 Distinction:
The E28 was the first 5 Series to offer a diesel engine and the first to feature the highly regarded 'M' division performance versions (M535i, M5).
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany, with some assembly in other BMW facilities globally.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Historical Accolades:
While specific awards for the 518 model are rare, the E28 5 Series generation was widely praised by automotive journalists for its handling, build quality, and performance relative to its competitors at the time, solidifying BMW's reputation.
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