🏷️ Basic Information
Identification
Make:
BMW
Model:
518
Chassis Code:
E28
Codes
Model Variant Codes:
518i (M10 engine variants)
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Target Audience:
BMW E28 518 owners and independent repair shops requiring detailed workshop information.
Competitive Analysis
Differentiation:
Make, model, and year-specific coverage; detailed diagrams; comprehensive system coverage, contrasting with generic manuals.
Key Features
Delivery:
Instant Download
Usability:
Easy-to-follow instructions, step-by-step diagrams.
Completeness:
Covers everything needed to repair and maintain the vehicle.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
All workshop repair procedures, electrical diagrams, service procedures, fluid capacities.
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era, likely 500+ pages)
Manual Type
Type:
Service Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, valves, cylinders, pistons, crankcase, crankshaft, primary shaft, lubrication, inspection and adjustment, fuel system, ignition system, electric starter.
Transmission:
Clutch, gearshift linkage, sub-transmission (gearbox), transmission overhaul.
Suspension Steering:
Front wheel and suspension, rear wheel and suspension.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system.
Electrical:
Battery and charging system, ignition system, electric starter, switches, comprehensive electrical diagrams.
Bodywork:
Implied through general repair procedures and potential troubleshooting.
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, inspections, adjustments.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components, engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting section for identifying and resolving issues.
Wiring:
Detailed instructions for re-wiring and electrical system repairs, complete with diagrams.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and repair).
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Compatibility:
PC/MAC Compatible
Features:
Searchable text (implied by PDF format), Zoom in/out functionality.
Print Quality
Print Options:
Printable pages or entire manual.
Binding Type
Binding:
Digital Download (Not Applicable)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
Digital Download (Not Applicable)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
M10 (likely M10B18 variants)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Performance
Horsepower Approx:
90-105 hp (depending on specific variant and market)
Torque Approx:
130-145 Nm (depending on specific variant and market)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Likely Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection (specific to 518i)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission
Optional
Type:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (ZF 3HP22 or ZF 4HP22)
Features
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate (for manual transmission)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Approx:
4620 mm (181.9 in)
Width Approx:
1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height Approx:
1415 mm (55.7 in)
Weights
Curb Weight Approx:
1250-1350 kg (2756-2976 lbs) depending on equipment
Wheelbase Approx:
2770 mm (109.1 in)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Era:
Early 1980s standards (less stringent than modern standards)
Active Features
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (ABS optional on later E28 models, less common on 518)
Steering:
Recirculating ball steering (power steering often optional)
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell (typical BMW safety design of the era)
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory radio/cassette player (various brands and options available).
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional on many models.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Limited to factory radio and speaker systems.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000 - 10,000 km (3,000 - 6,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plugs:
Inspection every 20,000-30,000 km, replacement as needed (specific type based on engine variant).
Timing Belt:
Not applicable, M10 engines use a timing chain.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check specific manual for exact viscosity based on climate).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 GL-4 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent ATF specification for the specific transmission)
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (hoses, radiator), fuel injector issues, ignition system components (e.g., distributor, coil), rust (particularly around wheel wells and rocker panels), suspension bushings wear, aging electrical connectors, fuel pump reliability.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Identity:
BMW's reputation for sporty sedans and engineering excellence.
Model Evolution
Generation:
Second generation of the BMW 5 Series.
Predecessor:
BMW E12 5 Series
Successor:
BMW E34 5 Series
Production
Production Years:
1981-1985 (for the E28 generation overall), 518 models produced within this range.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (primarily Dingolfing plant)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Model Recognition:
The E28 platform was well-regarded for its driving dynamics and build quality for its era.
Ratings
Critical Reception:
Generally positive reviews for ride comfort, handling, and durability.