🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 518i Year: 1985 Generation Chassis Code: E28 Codes Engine Code Primary: M10B18 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Executive/Luxury Sedan Competitors: Mercedes-Benz W124, Audi 100/200, Volvo 700 Series, Jaguar XJ Key Features Design Philosophy: Focus on driver engagement, build quality, and understated luxury. Powertrain Emphasis: Reliable inline-four engines, refined chassis dynamics, rear-wheel drive. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Full Service Repair, Maintenance, Rebuilding, Refurbishment, Restoration, Diagnostics Page Count Estimated Pages: 500+ Manual Type Type: Full Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (likely PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic), ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, emissions control Drivetrain Systems: Transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differential, rear axle Chassis Systems: Suspension (front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms), steering (power assisted), brakes (front discs, rear drums), wheels, tires Electrical Systems: Wiring diagrams, lighting, starting and charging system, instrumentation, fuses, relays, accessories, ECU diagnosis Body And Interior: Body construction, panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, HVAC system Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and adjustment Engine Repair: Overhaul, piston and ring replacement, cylinder head gasket replacement, valve adjustments, timing chain service Transmission Repair: Overhaul (manual and automatic), component replacement, clutch service Brake Service: Pad and rotor replacement, caliper rebuilding, drum brake service, brake fluid flush Suspension And Steering Service: Shock/strut replacement, ball joint and control arm service, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump and rack service Electrical Diagnostics: Troubleshooting common electrical faults, component testing, wiring harness repair Bodywork And Restoration: Panel alignment, rust repair techniques, interior component removal and installation Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering from basic tune-ups to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostic procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF Print Quality Clarity: High resolution for clear diagrams and text. Binding Type Physical Binding: N/A (Digital) Paper Type Physical Paper: N/A (Digital) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally aspirated Inline 4-cylinder Displacement: 1.8 L (1766 cc) Bore X Stroke: 86 mm x 76.8 mm Compression Ratio: 8.8:1 Performance Horsepower: 90 PS (89 hp; 66 kW) at 5500 rpm Torque: 140 Nm (103 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (Premium) Ignition Ignition System: Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based) Maintenance Valve Lash Adjustment Interval: Every 30,000 km (18,600 miles) or as needed Spark Plug Part Number: NGK BP5ES or equivalent 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Manual Optional Transmission Type: 3-speed ZF 3HP22 Automatic Features Clutch Type: Dry single-plate Fluid Specs Manual Transmission Fluid: GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 Gear Oil Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron III/Mercon (or equivalent) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4620 mm (181.9 in) Width: 1700 mm (66.9 in) Height: 1415 mm (55.7 in) Wheelbase: 2795 mm (110.0 in) Weights Curb Weight Manual: 1350 kg (2976 lbs) Curb Weight Automatic: 1380 kg (3042 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Ratings: NHTSA ratings for this era are generally not directly comparable to modern standards. Known for robust build quality. Active Features Braking System: Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs (later models) or drums, dual-circuit hydraulic system. Passive Features Seat Belts: Three-point front seat belts, two-point rear belts (optional three-point available). Body Structure: Integrated safety cage, crumple zones. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional premium sound systems. Driver Assistance ABS: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models. Connectivity Early Features: Central locking, power windows (optional), electric sunroof (optional), trip computer (optional). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Coolant Flush Interval: Every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles). Brake Fluid Change Interval: Every 2 years. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG or SH, ACEA A3/B3, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (depending on climate). Coolant Type: Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, BMW approved (blue or green). Fluid Capacities Engine Oil Capacity With Filter: Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) Coolant Capacity: Approx. 7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts) Known Issues Engine: Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket, potential for timing chain stretch over high mileage. Fuel System: Fuel pump reliability, injector issues (rare), cold start valve operation. Suspension: Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and rear trailing arm bushings. Shock absorber deterioration. Electrical: Corrosion in wiring connectors, alternator issues, intermittent dashboard warning lights. Body: Rust formation in common areas: wheel arches, rocker panels, sunroof drain channels, rear window seal. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Bmw Legacy: BMW's long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, sporty driving dynamics, and quality construction. Model Evolution E28 Introduction: The E28 generation succeeded the E12 5 Series, introducing updated styling, improved aerodynamics, and a more refined chassis. 518I Positioning: The 518i represented the entry-level model...