🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 528i Year: 1984 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional workshops specializing in classic BMW E28 models. Value Proposition: Provides essential information for maintaining and restoring a high-performance luxury sedan of its era, crucial for preserving its value and driving experience. Competitive Analysis Competitor Manuals: Often competes with factory service manuals (TSM) and other aftermarket repair guides, aiming for greater detail and clarity for the DIYer. Key Features Diagnostic Focus: Emphasizes systematic diagnosis of issues, a hallmark of BMW's engineering. Restoration Guide: Valuable for owners undertaking comprehensive restoration projects. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Full Service Repair Manual Language: English Format: Print 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of the M30B28 engine. Engine Management: Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system diagnostics and repair, ignition system tuning and troubleshooting. Transmission Manual: Repair and overhaul procedures for the Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission. Transmission Automatic: Diagnostic and repair procedures for the ZF 4HP22 automatic transmission (if equipped). Drivetrain: Rear axle, driveshaft, CV joints, and differential service and repair. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, bushings, shock absorbers, struts, springs, and alignment procedures. Steering: Power steering system repair, steering rack, tie rods, and steering column maintenance. Brakes: Front and rear disc brake systems, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, calipers, pads, rotors, and ABS system (if equipped) diagnostics. Electrical System: Complete wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting system, fuse box, relays, and all electrical components. Fuel System: Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel lines, and fuel tank service. Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, and fan system maintenance and repair. Exhaust System: Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, and pipes replacement and repair. Body And Chassis: Body panel repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, locks, interior trim, and chassis component inspection. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common problems, including starting issues, engine performance problems, and electrical faults. Engine Rebuilding: Detailed steps for engine overhaul, including piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, valve seat grinding, and cylinder head resurfacing. Transmission Overhaul: Step-by-step instructions for rebuilding both manual and automatic transmissions. Brake System Repair: Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper rebuilding, bleeding the brake system, and master cylinder replacement. Electrical Component Replacement: Instructions for replacing starters, alternators, fuel pumps, and various sensors. Suspension And Steering Repair: Replacement of control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, and power steering pump. Climate Control Service: Air conditioning system troubleshooting and repair, heater core replacement. Body Repair And Refurbishment: Minor bodywork, rust repair, and interior trim reinstallation. Technical Depth Depth Level: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Diagnostic Capabilities: Detailed diagnostic charts, symptom analysis, and troubleshooting trees for all major systems. Torque Specifications: Extensive list of torque specifications for all critical fasteners. Alignment Specs: Wheel alignment specifications for front and rear. Wiring Diagrams: Complete, high-quality, and clearly labeled electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Physical Book Digital Availability: Likely available as PDF for digital purchase. Print Quality Paper Quality: Durable, heavy-stock paper suitable for workshop environments. Print Clarity: Clear, legible text and high-resolution diagrams and illustrations. Binding Type Binding: Likely a robust binding (e.g., perfect bound or spiral bound) for ease of use in a garage. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M30B28 Engine Type: Inline-6, SOHC, 12-valve Displacement: 2788 cc (2.8 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 81.0 mm Compression Ratio: 8.0:1 (typical for this model/year) Performance Horsepower: 182 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.) Torque: 230 Nm (169 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (approx.) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch L-Jetronic electronic fuel injection Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline Fuel Pressure: Approx. 36.3 psi (2.5 bar) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: Getrag 260 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type Optional: ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch Gear Ratios Manual: Specific ratios provided in manual, e.g., 1st: 4.02, 2nd: 2.40, 3rd: 1.57, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.81 Transmission Fluid Manual: BMW ATF Dextron II or equivalent (e.g., Castrol TQ-D) Transmission Fluid Automatic: BMW ATF Dextron II or equivalent (e.g., Castrol TQ-D) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 2795 mm (110.0 inches) Length: 4725 mm (186.0 inches) Width: 1700 mm (66.9 inches) Height: 1415 mm (55.7 inches) Front Track: 1430 mm (56.3 inches) Rear Track: 1452 mm (57.2 inches) Weights Curb Weight: 1460 kg (3219 lbs) (approx., manual transmission) Gross Vehicle Weight: Approx. 1900 kg (4189 lbs) Towing Capacity: Not typically specified or recommended for this model 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data: Limited official crash test data available for this specific year and model from modern agencies due to the era of production. Refer...
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional workshops specializing in classic BMW E28 models.
Value Proposition:
Provides essential information for maintaining and restoring a high-performance luxury sedan of its era, crucial for preserving its value and driving experience.
Competitive Analysis
Competitor Manuals:
Often competes with factory service manuals (TSM) and other aftermarket repair guides, aiming for greater detail and clarity for the DIYer.
Key Features
Diagnostic Focus:
Emphasizes systematic diagnosis of issues, a hallmark of BMW's engineering.
Restoration Guide:
Valuable for owners undertaking comprehensive restoration projects.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Manual Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Language:
English
Format:
Print
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Mechanical:
Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of the M30B28 engine.
Engine Management:
Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system diagnostics and repair, ignition system tuning and troubleshooting.
Transmission Manual:
Repair and overhaul procedures for the Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission.
Transmission Automatic:
Diagnostic and repair procedures for the ZF 4HP22 automatic transmission (if equipped).
Drivetrain:
Rear axle, driveshaft, CV joints, and differential service and repair.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, bushings, shock absorbers, struts, springs, and alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system repair, steering rack, tie rods, and steering column maintenance.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake systems, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, calipers, pads, rotors, and ABS system (if equipped) diagnostics.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting system, fuse box, relays, and all electrical components.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel lines, and fuel tank service.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, and fan system maintenance and repair.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, and pipes replacement and repair.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, locks, interior trim, and chassis component inspection.
Procedures Included
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, including starting issues, engine performance problems, and electrical faults.
Engine Rebuilding:
Detailed steps for engine overhaul, including piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, valve seat grinding, and cylinder head resurfacing.
Transmission Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for rebuilding both manual and automatic transmissions.
Brake System Repair:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper rebuilding, bleeding the brake system, and master cylinder replacement.
Electrical Component Replacement:
Instructions for replacing starters, alternators, fuel pumps, and various sensors.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Replacement of control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, and power steering pump.
Climate Control Service:
Air conditioning system troubleshooting and repair, heater core replacement.
Body Repair And Refurbishment:
Minor bodywork, rust repair, and interior trim reinstallation.
Technical Depth
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic charts, symptom analysis, and troubleshooting trees for all major systems.
Torque Specifications:
Extensive list of torque specifications for all critical fasteners.
Alignment Specs:
Wheel alignment specifications for front and rear.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete, high-quality, and clearly labeled electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
Physical Book
Digital Availability:
Likely available as PDF for digital purchase.
Print Quality
Paper Quality:
Durable, heavy-stock paper suitable for workshop environments.
Print Clarity:
Clear, legible text and high-resolution diagrams and illustrations.
Binding Type
Binding:
Likely a robust binding (e.g., perfect bound or spiral bound) for ease of use in a garage.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
M30B28
Engine Type:
Inline-6, SOHC, 12-valve
Displacement:
2788 cc (2.8 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 81.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 (typical for this model/year)
Performance
Horsepower:
182 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
230 Nm (169 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (approx.)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Pressure:
Approx. 36.3 psi (2.5 bar)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Standard:
Getrag 260 5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission
Features
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Gear Ratios Manual:
Specific ratios provided in manual, e.g., 1st: 4.02, 2nd: 2.40, 3rd: 1.57, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.81
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW ATF Dextron II or equivalent (e.g., Castrol TQ-D)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
BMW ATF Dextron II or equivalent (e.g., Castrol TQ-D)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
2795 mm (110.0 inches)
Length:
4725 mm (186.0 inches)
Width:
1700 mm (66.9 inches)
Height:
1415 mm (55.7 inches)
Front Track:
1430 mm (56.3 inches)
Rear Track:
1452 mm (57.2 inches)
Weights
Curb Weight:
1460 kg (3219 lbs) (approx., manual transmission)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 1900 kg (4189 lbs)
Towing Capacity:
Not typically specified or recommended for this model
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data available for this specific year and model from modern agencies due to the era of production. Refer to historical road safety assessments.
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional or standard on later models, but may not have been standard on all 1984 528i variants. The manual will detail its operation and diagnostics if equipped.
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
Three-point front seat belts, lap belts for rear passengers.
Crumple Zones:
Designed with energy-absorbing crumple zones in the front and rear.
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column for improved driver protection in frontal impacts.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Original cassette player with AM/FM radio. Upgrade options were common. Manual covers basic electrical connections for aftermarket head units.
Driver Assistance
ABS System:
If equipped, ABS functionality is detailed in the manual, including sensor and modulator diagnostics.
Connectivity
Original Connectivity:
None by modern standards; primarily focused on vehicle mechanics and basic amenities.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (recommendation based on era and modern synthetic oils).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (typical for original plugs, higher with platinum/iridium).
Timing Belt Interval:
N/A (M30 engine uses a timing chain)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or newer. SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 recommended depending on climate. Synthetic oil is highly recommended for modern use.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Known Issues
Head Gasket:
Susceptible to head gasket failure due to age and heat cycles; manual will detail diagnosis and replacement.
Fuel Injector Seals:
Leaking or degraded fuel injector O-rings can cause fuel leaks or poor running; manual covers inspection and replacement.
Rubber Components:
Degradation of various rubber hoses, bushings, and seals over time is common; manual provides replacement procedures.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion or looseness in electrical connectors can lead to intermittent faults; detailed wiring diagrams in the manual are essential.
Wiper Motor Assembly:
Can seize or fail, affecting wiper operation; manual includes troubleshooting.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' built on decades of engineering excellence, particularly in inline-six engines and chassis dynamics.
Model Evolution
E28 Generation:
The 528i is part of the E28 generation of the BMW 5 Series, produced from 1981 to 1988. It succeeded the E12 and was a significant step forward in refinement, technology, and performance.
E28 Positioning:
The E28 represented BMW's mid-size executive sedan, competing with models like the Mercedes-Benz W124 and Audi 100/200. The 528i was a performance-oriented variant.
Production
Production Years:
1981-1988 for E28 generation. The 528i model variant was primarily offered in the early to mid-E28 production run.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Press Acclaim:
The E28 generation, including models like the 528i, was widely praised by automotive journalists for its blend of performance, luxury, and handling, often cited as a benchmark for sports sedans.
Historical Significance:
Considered a classic by many enthusiasts and a significant model in BMW's history, contributing to the brand's image.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.