🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Model Variant: 318i Year: 1988 Codes Chassis Code: E30 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact executive sedan. Target Audience: Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and owners seeking to maintain or repair their E30 318i. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Volvo 240 Series, Alfa Romeo 75. Key Features Driving Dynamics: Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, and engaging driving experience. Build Quality: Typical BMW build quality of the era, known for durability. Design: Iconic BMW design language by Claus Luthe. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: BMW 318i (E30) 1988 Model Year Secondary Coverage: Likely covers commonalities with other E30 models of the same era. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Hundreds of pages (as indicated by product description) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Download PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for the M40B18 engine. Fuel System: Bosch Motronic fuel injection system diagnostics, components, and service. Ignition System: Ignition timing, coil pack, spark plugs, and electronic control unit (ECU) diagnostics. Transmission: Repair and maintenance for the Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission; potential coverage for automatic transmission variants. Drivetrain: Driveshaft, differential, axles, and wheel bearings. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shocks, struts, and bushings. Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, and steering column. Brakes: Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), front and rear disc brake service, parking brake. Electrical System: Wiring diagrams, fuse box layout, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, and accessory circuits. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnostics and repair. Bodywork: Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and rust repair considerations. Interior: Seat removal, dashboard components, trim panels, and upholstery. Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine maintenance tasks: oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides and diagnostic flowcharts for common issues. Repair: Step-by-step repair instructions for major and minor components. Overhaul: Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures. Wiring: Detailed electrical system troubleshooting using wiring diagrams. Torque Specs: Specific torque values for all critical fasteners. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Searchability: Likely text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval. Print Quality Quality: High quality (assumed for factory service manual download). Printability: Printable in its entirety or select pages. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M40B18 Configuration: Inline 4-cylinder Displacement: 1.8 Liters (1796 cc) Bore X Stroke: 84 mm x 81 mm Compression Ratio: 8.8:1 Valvetrain: SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 8 valves Performance Horsepower: 105 hp (78 kW) @ 5800 rpm Torque: 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm Fuel System System: Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (91 Octane minimum recommended) Cooling System Type: Liquid-cooled Capacity: Approx. 7.5 Liters 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: Getrag 260 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Type: ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission (often denoted as '4HP22 EH' with electronic control) Features Manual Clutch: Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch. Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW G3 Transaxle Fluid or equivalent SAE 75W-90 GL-4 gear oil. Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron III ATF or equivalent. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4330 mm (170.5 in) Width: 1675 mm (65.9 in) Height: 1380 mm (54.3 in) Wheelbase: 2570 mm (101.2 in) Weights Curb Weight Manual: Approx. 1250 kg (2756 lbs) Curb Weight Automatic: Approx. 1280 kg (2822 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data: Limited official crash test data readily available for this specific year/model from modern standards; historical safety expectations for the era. Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often optional or standard depending on market and specific build date. Passive Features Seatbelts: 3-point front seatbelts, 2-point rear seatbelts (typical for the era). Chassis Design: Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional premium sound systems available. Instrument Cluster: Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, engine temperature; warning lights. Driver Assistance ABS: Availability as noted in safety section. Connectivity Connectivity Features: None (vehicle of its era, no integrated Bluetooth or USB). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Air Filter: Inspect every 20,000 km (12,000 miles), replace as needed. Spark Plugs: Replace every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-25,000 miles). Coolant Flush: Every 2 years or 40,000 km (25,000 miles). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (depending on climate). Refer to manual for precise spec. Coolant: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water). Brake Fluid: DOT 4 Known Issues Engine M40: Timing belt stretching/failure (critical maintenance item), potential head gasket issues, oil leaks from seals. Rust: Common E30 rust...
Failing Motronic control units, aging wiring harnesses, headlight switch issues.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, rear trailing arm bushings.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos established in this era.
Model Evolution
E30 Introduction:
The E30 platform was introduced in 1982, replacing the E21.
E30 318I Introduction:
The 318i variant, particularly with the M40 engine, became a key model in the later E30 production years, offering a balance of efficiency and performance.