🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 316i Chassis Code: E30 Product Name: BMW 316i E30 Workshop Repair Manual 1988-1991 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The BMW E30 generation is a cornerstone of BMW's sporty sedan heritage, known for its engaging driving dynamics and build quality. The 316i variant was an entry-level model, offering accessible BMW ownership with characteristic engineering. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed with models like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80, Alfa Romeo 75, and Ford Sierra. Key Features Design Philosophy: Rear-wheel drive platform, balanced chassis, driver-focused cockpit, and robust construction. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Years: 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991 Regions Covered: Global (European market focus, applicable to most international variants) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 500-800 (estimated for comprehensive workshop manual) Manual Type Manual Type: Workshop Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable (likely PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: M40B18 engine (1.8L 4-cylinder), including disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, and tuning. Fuel System: Bosch LE-Jetronic fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, fuel filter, and tank. Ignition System: Electronic ignition system (distributor, coil, spark plugs, ignition control module). Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan, and coolant specifications. Exhaust System: Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and emissions control components. Transmission Manual: Getrag 240 5-speed manual transmission: removal, installation, clutch service, and internal repairs. Transmission Automatic: ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission (if applicable to specific models): removal, installation, and basic service. Drivetrain: Driveshafts, universal joints, rear differential, axles, and wheel bearings. Suspension Front: MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, anti-roll bar, bushings, and shock absorber replacement. Suspension Rear: Semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, and wheel alignment specifications. Steering System: Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, and steering column components. Brakes Front: Ventilated disc brakes, brake calipers, pads, rotors, and brake fluid specifications. Brakes Rear: Solid disc brakes (or drum brakes on some early models), brake calipers/wheel cylinders, pads/shoes, rotors/drums, and parking brake system. Electrical System: 12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter motor, fuses, relays, and wiring diagrams. Lighting System: Headlights, taillights, interior lights, fog lights, and bulb specifications. HVAC System: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (if equipped) system: blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant, and controls. Bodywork Exterior: Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, trunk, hood, bumpers, and trim. Bodywork Interior: Dashboard, seats, carpets, headliner, door panels, and interior trim components. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides for common issues, symptom-based diagnostics, and basic electrical testing procedures. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks, and belt inspections. Repair: Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components. Overhaul: Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including specifications for machining and rebuilding. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts and fault finding for engine, electrical, and mechanical systems. Adjustment: Valve adjustments, idle speed adjustments, timing adjustments, and brake adjustments. Replacement: Component replacement procedures for all parts of the vehicle. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive workshop level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Diagrams: Detailed step-by-step diagrams, exploded views, and schematic illustrations. Specifications: Includes torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical resistance values. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF Searchability: Searchable text content for quick information retrieval. Print Quality Print Quality: High-resolution pages suitable for printing. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M40B18 Engine Type: Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC, 8-valve Displacement: 1796 cc (1.8 liters) Performance Horsepower: 102 hp (75 kW) at 5700 rpm (approximate for European models) Torque: 140 Nm (103 lb-ft) at 3250 rpm (approximate) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (LE-Jetronic variant) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (RON 95 recommended) Cooling System Coolant Type: Ethylene glycol based coolant (e.g., BMW Coolant HT-12) Oil Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG or ACEA A2/B2 (e.g., Castrol GTX 10W-40, BMW recommends specific oils) Oil Capacity: 4.0 liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter change 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Std: Getrag 240 5-speed manual transmission Optional Transmission Type Opt: ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron III or equivalent (check specific ZF fluid recommendations) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4325 mm (170.3 in) Width: 1675 mm (65.9 in) Height: 1380 mm (54.3 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 1150-1250 kg (2535-2756 lbs), depending on options. Wheels Tires Wheel Bolt Pattern: 5x120 mm Tire Sizes: Commonly 185/70 HR 14, 195/65 HR 14, or 205/55 VR 15 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Ratings: No standardized crash test ratings from modern agencies like NHTSA/IIHS for this era, but E30 generally considered robust for its time. Active Features ABS: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models. Passive...
The BMW E30 generation is a cornerstone of BMW's sporty sedan heritage, known for its engaging driving dynamics and build quality. The 316i variant was an entry-level model, offering accessible BMW ownership with characteristic engineering.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed with models like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80, Alfa Romeo 75, and Ford Sierra.
Key Features
Design Philosophy:
Rear-wheel drive platform, balanced chassis, driver-focused cockpit, and robust construction.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Covered Years:
1988, 1989, 1990, 1991
Regions Covered:
Global (European market focus, applicable to most international variants)
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
500-800 (estimated for comprehensive workshop manual)
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Workshop Service and Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Downloadable (likely PDF)
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine:
M40B18 engine (1.8L 4-cylinder), including disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, and tuning.
No standardized crash test ratings from modern agencies like NHTSA/IIHS for this era, but E30 generally considered robust for its time.
Active Features
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts front, 2-point lap belts rear (later models may have 3-point rear belts).
Construction:
Reinforced chassis, crumple zones, and impact-absorbing steering column.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM radio, cassette player. Optional premium sound systems available.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by era; ABS was the primary advanced driver assistance feature available as an option.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
None (no Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 km (18,000 miles) or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-25,000 miles) depending on spark plug type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 km (37,000 miles) or 4 years for M40 engine (critical preventative maintenance).
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 recommended
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II/III or Pentosin CHF 11S (confirm specific application)
Known Issues
Common Issues:
Timing belt failure (M40), fuel distributor leaks, rear axle bushings wear, heater core leaks, rust (especially around wheel arches and sills), sagging headliner.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
BMW's long-standing reputation for producing sporty, driver-oriented sedans and coupes. The E30 built upon the success of the E21.
Model Evolution
Generation:
Second generation 3 Series (E30) replaced the E21. Known for its clean design and excellent handling.
Production
Production Years:
1982-1994 (E30 platform), 316i specifically introduced with M40 engine in 1987/1988 facelift.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary manufacturing in Germany, with some assembly in other locations.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Journalism:
The E30 chassis was widely praised by automotive journalists for its handling, balance, and build quality, often cited as a benchmark in its class.
Ratings
Reliability Reputation:
Generally considered reliable with diligent maintenance, though specific components like the M40 timing belt require strict adherence to service intervals.