🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 325i Year: 1987 Codes Chassis Code: E30 Engine Code: M20B27 👋 Introduction Market Position Era: Late 1980s entry-level luxury sports sedan. Segment: Compact Executive Car (Entry-level) Competitive Analysis Competitors 1987: Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75. Key Features Driving Dynamics: Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive dynamics, and driver-focused cockpit. Engine Type: Inline-6 cylinder engine known for smooth power delivery. Build Quality: Reputation for robust build quality and longevity typical of BMW. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Complete Service and Repair Secondary Coverage: Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Maintenance Page Count Estimated Pages: Hundreds (specific count varies by edition) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM) Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (M20B27), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System Drivetrain: Transmission (Getrag 260 manual, ZF 4HP22 automatic), Driveshaft, Differential, Axles Chassis: Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Semi-Trailing Arm), Steering, Brakes (Front Discs, Rear Drums/Discs) Electrical: Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instrumentation, Starting & Charging, ECU/DME (Motronic 1.3) Body And Interior: Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC System Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Faults, Reading Diagnostic Codes (e.g., DME checks) Repair: Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair Installation: Component Installation and Adjustment (e.g., timing belt, valve adjustments) Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering from basic adjustments to full engine and transmission overhauls. Detail Level: Step-by-step instructions with detailed torque specifications and diagrams. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Print Quality Printability: High resolution, suitable for printing individual sections or the entire manual. Searchability: Likely text-searchable if the source material was digital, allowing for quick information retrieval. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M20B27 Configuration: Inline 6-cylinder Displacement: 2.7 Liters (2693 cc) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 81.0 mm Compression Ratio: 8.5:1 Performance Horsepower Net: 168 hp @ 5500 rpm Torque Net: 225 Nm (166 lb-ft) @ 3300 rpm Fuel System Injection Type: Bosch Motronic 1.3 Fuel Injection Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (91-98 RON / 87-93 AKI recommended) Timing Components Timing Mechanism: Timing Belt 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: Getrag 260 5-Speed Manual Optional Type: ZF 4HP22 4-Speed Automatic Features Clutch Type: Hydraulic, single dry plate Fluid Specifications Manual Fluid: BMW ATF Dextron III (or equivalent GL-4 gear oil) Automatic Fluid: BMW ATF Dextron II/III (or equivalent) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 in) Width: Approx. 1670 mm (65.7 in) Height: Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in) Wheelbase: Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in) Weights Curb Weight Manual: Approx. 1250 kg (2756 lbs) Curb Weight Automatic: Approx. 1280 kg (2822 lbs) Gross Vehicle Weight: Approx. 1750 kg (3858 lbs) Cargo Trunk Capacity: Approx. 450 Liters (15.9 cu ft) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Rating 1987: Specific NHTSA ratings from this era are generally not available in the modern format. Vehicles were built to meet prevailing safety standards. Active Features Brakes: Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs (optional) or Drums. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was often optional or standard on later E30 models, may be available on some 1987 US models. Suspension Stability: Independent front suspension with anti-roll bar, semi-trailing arm rear suspension contributing to stable handling. Passive Features Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear. Body Structure: Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones front and rear. Driver Airbag: Optional on some late 1987 models, standard on later E30 variants. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory fitted BMW radios, often with cassette player. Aftermarket upgrades common. Driver Assistance ABS: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on certain models. Cruise Control: Often optional, electronic cruise control system. Connectivity Connectivity Features: Limited by era; no modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity without aftermarket modification. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first. Timing Belt Replacement: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years, critically important due to interference engine design. Spark Plug Replacement: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Coolant Flush: Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 Synthetic/Semi-Synthetic (API SG or higher) Engine Oil Capacity: Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change Coolant Type: BMW Blue Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based) or equivalent, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 or DOT 4 Known Issues Engine Cooling System: Water pump failure, radiator leaks, thermostat issues, heater core leaks. Fuel System: Fuel pump failures, clogged injectors, incorrect fuel pressure. Suspension: Worn control arm bushings, worn sway bar links, rear trailing arm bushings (RTABs). Electrical: ABS sensor failures, instrument cluster issues, main ground strap degradation. Body Rust: Common rust areas: jacking points, fender liners, rocker panels, battery tray. 📚 Vehicle History...