🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 5 Series (E28) Variant: 528e Production Years Covered By Manual: 1982-1988 Codes Chassis Code: E28 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Essential diagnostic and repair resource for owners and mechanics of the BMW 5 Series E28 528e, replicating dealer-level information. Competitive Analysis Advantage: Provides complete electrical troubleshooting capabilities, often a complex area for vintage vehicles, offering significant cost savings over dealer service. Key Features Feature List: Detailed sub-steps, notes, cautions, warnings, numbered instructions, bold figure numbers, hundreds of illustrations/photos, enlarged insets, numbered table of contents, combined troubleshooting and wiring diagrams. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Focus: Electrical Troubleshooting Styles Covered: All body styles Page Count Total Pages: 1,200+ Manual Type Type: Electrical Troubleshooting Manual / Workshop Service Manual Language Language: English Format File Format: PDF Platform Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux Printability: Fully Printable 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Electrical Systems: Comprehensive coverage including ignition, starting, charging, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, climate control, and engine management electronics. Wiring Diagrams: Detailed, model-specific wiring diagrams with component identification and wire routing. Procedures Included Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnostic procedures for electrical faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides. Repair: Step-by-step repair instructions for electrical components and systems. Maintenance: Electrical system checks and preventative maintenance. Wire Harness Repair: Guidelines for repairing damaged wire harnesses and connectors. Technical Depth Depth: Detailed step-by-step instructions with hundreds of photos, illustrations, and diagrams, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Quality: High-resolution scan, intact and complete, no missing/corrupt pages. Print Quality Print Readability: Designed for clarity when printed, facilitating workshop use. Binding Type Binding: Digital (PDF) - no physical binding Paper Type Paper Type Simulation: Simulates high-quality paper manual for ease of use and durability when printed. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Designation: M20 (specifically M20B27) Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC Performance Displacement: 2.7 Liters (2693 cc) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 81.0 mm Compression Ratio: 8.0:1 or 8.5:1 (depending on specific market/variant) Horsepower Estimated: 121-125 hp @ 4800-5000 rpm (varies slightly by market and emissions regulations) Torque Estimated: 170-174 lb-ft @ 3000-3250 rpm (varies slightly by market) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection (specific system varies by model year and market) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22) often standard, particularly on the 528e for economy focus Optional Transmission Type: 5-speed Manual (Getrag 260) Features Ecotronic System: Some 528e models featured the 'Ecotronic' system, which integrated transmission and engine management for enhanced fuel economy, often with a 3-speed automatic and overdrive functionality, or a specific ECU tune for manual transmissions. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4,715 mm (185.6 in) Width: 1,700 mm (66.9 in) Height: 1,380 mm (54.3 in) Wheelbase: 2,795 mm (110.0 in) Weights Curb Weight: ~1,400-1,500 kg (3,086-3,307 lbs) depending on transmission and equipment 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Testing: While specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for the 1982-1988 E28 are not readily available in modern formats, BMW's engineering during this era emphasized passive safety with a strong unibody structure, crumple zones, and robust pillar designs. Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available as an option on later models and became more common. Passive Features Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for front occupants, lap belts for rear passengers (later models often featured three-point rear belts). Structure: Reinforced safety cage, energy-absorbing steering column. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory cassette radio with AM/FM, often with optional upgraded speakers and amplifier systems. Analog tuning and controls. Climate Control: Manual or optional automatic climate control systems with analog knobs and sliders. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available as an option, operated by a stalk on the steering column. Connectivity Connectivity Features: Limited to factory-installed telecommunications options (e.g., early car phone systems) if optioned. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Tune Up Interval: Spark plugs and filters typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), but can vary. Timing Belt Replacement: The M20 engine uses a timing belt, typically recommended for replacement every 50,000-60,000 miles (80,000-96,000 km). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG/SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (refer to manual for exact specifications). Coolant Type: Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Transmission Fluid Type Auto: Dexron II or equivalent (for ZF 4HP22). Transmission Fluid Type Manual: GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 recommended. Known Issues Electrical Gremlins: Common issues can include failing headlight relays, faulty door lock actuators, dashboard warning light malfunctions, and degraded wiring insulation due to age. This manual is crucial for diagnosing these. Engine M20B27 Specifics: The M20B27 is known for its robust bottom end but can suffer from head gasket issues if overheated, or valve stem seal degradation leading to oil consumption. The 'eta' engine's low-rev...