🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 528i Year: 1986 Generation Chassis Code: E28 Codes Engine Code: M30B28 (early models), M30B27 (later US models, often designated as 'eta') 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Executive Sedan Target Audience: Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, restoration specialists Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100, Volvo 240/740 Series Key Features Vehicle Strengths: Performance, handling, build quality, distinctive styling Manual Value Proposition: Enables owners to maintain and repair a complex, sophisticated European vehicle with confidence. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Full Service, Repair, Rebuild, Refurbish, Restoration Page Count Estimated Pages: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Full Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (likely PDF, assumed searchable) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine overhaul, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system Transmission: Manual and Automatic transmission repair, clutch service, drive axles Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic and mechanical components) Electrical: Wiring diagrams, electrical component testing, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation Body: Body panel repair, interior trim, seals, windows, doors, convertible top (if applicable) Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures, fault finding for mechanical and electrical issues Repair: Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems Rebuilds: Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures with specifications Restoration: Guidance for refurbishing and restoring original components and appearance Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF (Assumed) Searchability: Searchable text (Assumed) Print Quality Printability: Printable pages (Assumed) Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline-6 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated Displacement: 2.8 Liters (2788 cc) or 2.7 Liters (2693 cc) for 'eta' Bore X Stroke: 2.8L: 86 mm x 80 mm; 2.7L: 84 mm x 81 mm Compression Ratio: 2.8L: 9.0:1; 2.7L 'eta': 11.0:1 (often debated/varied by market) Valve Train: SOHC, 2 Valves per Cylinder Performance Horsepower: 2.8L: Approx. 171 hp @ 5800 rpm; 2.7L 'eta': Approx. 121 hp @ 4800 rpm (US Spec) Torque: 2.8L: Approx. 170 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm; 2.7L 'eta': Approx. 165 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (US Spec) Fuel System Induction: Bosch Motronic Fuel Injection (L-Jetronic or LH-Jetronic variants) Fuel Type: Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended) Lubrication Oil Capacity: 6.9 Quarts (6.5 Liters) with filter Recommended Oil: SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50 API SG (Consult manual for specific BMW approval) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 4-speed Manual (Getrag 265/5 or similar) Optional Type: 4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22) Features Clutch: Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch Fluid Specifications Manual Fluid: GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90) Automatic Fluid: Dexron III ATF (or equivalent) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 187.2 inches (4755 mm) Width: Approx. 68.9 inches (1750 mm) Height: Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm) Wheelbase Wheelbase: Approx. 104.3 inches (2650 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3100-3300 lbs (1400-1500 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 4200 lbs (1900 kg) Wheels And Tires Wheel Bolt Pattern: 5 x 120 mm Standard Tire Size: 205/60 VR 14 or 205/55 VR 15 (depending on trim/options) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Rating: N/A (Not tested by NHTSA in modern standards) Active Features Braking System: Front: Ventilated Discs; Rear: Solid Discs ABS: Optional (Bosch ABS II) Passive Features Airbags: None (Standard for the era) Seat Belts: 3-point inertia reel front, 3-point lap/diagonal rear 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Period-appropriate AM/FM Stereo, Cassette Player, optional CD Player Climate Control: Manual or Automatic Climate Control (optional) Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard or Optional Connectivity Connectivity Features: N/A (Pre-modern connectivity era) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6-12 months (traditional interval) Major Service Points: Timing belt (if applicable, M30 is chain-driven), spark plugs, coolant flush, brake fluid flush Fluid Specifications Coolant: 50/50 mix of BMW Blue Antifreeze or equivalent ethylene glycol coolant Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 Power Steering Fluid: ATF Dexron II/III Known Issues Common Problems: Fuel distributor issues, idle control valve problems, cooling system leaks (hoses, water pump), rear subframe mounting points, rust (especially around wheel arches and sills), aging fuel lines and vacuum hoses. Part Numbers Oil Filter Example: Mann-Filter W940/1, Mahle OX 34 Air Filter Example: Mann-Filter C32102/1, Mahle LX 25 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Bmw Legacy: BMW's reputation for sporty sedans and inline-6 engines. Model Evolution E28 Development: Successor to the E12, evolved from the 525i/535i models, known for improved aerodynamics and chassis dynamics. Production Production Years: 1981-1988 (E28 platform) Manufacturing Location: Germany (Dingolfing Plant) 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Contemporaneous Awards: Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its handling, build quality, and blend of performance and comfort. Often featured in 'best of' lists for its era.