🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Chassis Code: E30 Production Years Covered: 1983-1991 Codes Engine Codes Covered: M10, M40, M20, M21 👋 Introduction Market Position E30 Era Importance: The E30 redefined the compact executive sports sedan segment, balancing performance, luxury, and driver engagement. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75 Key Features Design Philosophy: Classic BMW proportions, driver-focused cockpit, robust engineering. Driving Dynamics: Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and engaging handling characteristics. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Service, Repair, Maintenance, Rebuilding, Refurbishment, Restoration Page Count Estimated Page Count: Hundreds of pages (specific number not provided, implies comprehensive) Manual Type Type: Service Repair Manual Language Language: English (assumed standard for this market) Format Format: PDF File Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) Searchability: Likely text-searchable, enabling quick information retrieval Printability: Printable for workshop use Digital Accessibility: Easily accessible on various devices 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Full coverage including diagnosis, overhaul, component replacement, tuning Fuel System: Carbureted and Fuel Injection systems (Bosch L-Jetronic, Motronic) coverage Ignition System: Diagnosis, troubleshooting, component testing for electronic ignition Cooling System: Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications Exhaust System: Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, mounting, inspection Transmission Manual: Clutch, gearbox overhaul, synchronizers, linkage, fluid specifications Transmission Automatic: Shift control, hydraulic circuits, torque converter, cooling, fluid specifications Drivetrain: Driveshafts, CV joints, differential, axle shafts, lubrication Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment Steering System: Steering rack, power steering pump, hoses, linkages, fluid Brake System: Front and rear discs, calipers, master cylinder, ABS (if equipped), bleeding procedures, fluid type Electrical System: Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting Body And Chassis: Frame, body panels, doors, windows, locks, hinges, rust repair considerations Interior Trim: Seats, dashboard, door panels, headliner removal and installation Climate Control: HVAC system, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant, diagnosis Fuel Capacity: Fuel tank capacity, fuel pump operation Procedures Included Scheduled Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, fluid checks and replacements Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault codes interpretation Engine Rebuild: Complete engine disassembly, inspection, machining recommendations, reassembly Transmission Overhaul: Detailed steps for manual and automatic transmission internal repairs Brake Repair: Disc pad/shoe replacement, caliper/cylinder overhaul, rotor replacement, bleeding Electrical Component Replacement: Alternator, starter, ignition coil, sensors, ECUs Suspension Component Replacement: Ball joints, control arms, tie rods, springs, shocks Bodywork Repair: Panel replacement, rust repair techniques, alignment procedures Diagnostic Flowcharts: Step-by-step guides to identify and resolve specific problems Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds) Detail Level: Highly detailed with clear instructions and diagrams Target Audience: Professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine E30 Engine Variants: M10 (4-cylinder, 1.8L), M40 (4-cylinder, 1.6L/1.8L), M20 (6-cylinder, 2.0L/2.3L/2.5L), M21 (Diesel, 2.4L) Performance Typical Horsepower Range: 75 hp (diesel) to 170 hp (325i/is) Typical Torque Range: 90 lb-ft to 170 lb-ft Fuel System Fuel Delivery Systems: Carburetor (e.g., Zenith/Solex) for early models, Bosch K-Jetronic and Motronic EFI for later/performance models. Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating specified by engine type), Diesel for M21 models. 🔧 Transmission Standard Manual Transmission Options: 4-speed and 5-speed Getrag manual transmissions Optional Automatic Transmission Options: ZF 3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmissions Features Rear Wheel Drive: All E30 models feature rear-wheel drive. Limited Slip Differential: Optional on many models, standard on M3 and some sport variants (e.g., 325is). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: 2-door sedan, 4-door sedan, convertible, touring (wagon - rare in US). Wheelbase: Approximately 2570 mm (101.2 inches) depending on model. Weights Curb Weight Range: Approximately 1150 kg to 1450 kg (2535 lbs to 3197 lbs). 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Passive Safety Features: Front crumple zones, safety cage construction, optional driver's side airbag (late models), seat belts. Active Features Brake System Features: Standard front disc brakes, rear disc or drum brakes depending on model. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an option on higher trims. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Basic AM/FM radio and cassette player, optional premium sound systems. Display Technology: Analog gauges, basic climate control displays. Driver Assistance Advanced Features: ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as an option on select models. Connectivity Connectivity Options: None in the modern sense (no Bluetooth, USB, etc.) - focus on mechanical and electrical systems. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually. Timing Belt Replacement: M40 engines require timing belt replacement every 40,000 miles (60,000 km) or 3 years. M10/M20 use chains, which are generally more durable but require inspection. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: API SG or higher, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 15W-50 depending on climate. Consult manual for specific engine. Coolant: BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48) or equivalent Ethylene Glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4, check manual for specific recommendation....
Approximately 2570 mm (101.2 inches) depending on model.
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 1150 kg to 1450 kg (2535 lbs to 3197 lbs).
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Passive Safety Features:
Front crumple zones, safety cage construction, optional driver's side airbag (late models), seat belts.
Active Features
Brake System Features:
Standard front disc brakes, rear disc or drum brakes depending on model. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an option on higher trims.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio and cassette player, optional premium sound systems.
Display Technology:
Analog gauges, basic climate control displays.
Driver Assistance
Advanced Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as an option on select models.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
None in the modern sense (no Bluetooth, USB, etc.) - focus on mechanical and electrical systems.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually.
Timing Belt Replacement:
M40 engines require timing belt replacement every 40,000 miles (60,000 km) or 3 years. M10/M20 use chains, which are generally more durable but require inspection.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 15W-50 depending on climate. Consult manual for specific engine.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48) or equivalent Ethylene Glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, check manual for specific recommendation.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or III (check specific transmission type).
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, expansion tank), head gasket failures (M40 engine), fuel pump failures, rear wheel bearing noise, seized heater blowers, rust in common areas (wheel arches, rocker panels, jacking points).
E30 Specific Wear:
Worn suspension bushings, strut mount failure, cracked dashboard plastic.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's reputation for building driver-oriented, high-quality vehicles.
Model Evolution
E30 Introduction:
Launched in 1982 as a successor to the E21 3 Series.