🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 518i Year: 1985 Chassis Code: E28 Market Segment: Executive Car / Luxury Sedan 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The BMW 518i (E28) represented BMW's entry-level executive sedan in the mid-1980s, offering the brand's renowned driving dynamics and build quality at a more accessible price point. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed against models like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 100, and Jaguar XJ6, emphasizing a sporty driving experience. Key Features Driving Dynamics: Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive platform, and engaging handling characteristics. Build Quality: Typical BMW build quality of the era, known for durability and premium materials. Engine Options: Primarily featured the M10 engine family, known for its robustness and efficiency for its displacement. Manual Value Utility: Essential for owners and independent mechanics seeking to maintain, repair, or restore the 1985 BMW 518i, providing factory-level technical data. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage: All Models, All Engines, All Trim Levels, All Transmission Types for 1985 BMW 518i Page Count Estimated Pages: Approximately 1500+ Manual Type Type: Workshop Repair Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Complete overhaul, tuning, fuel injection (L-Jetronic), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control. Transmission: Manual (Getrag 260) and Automatic (ZF 4HP22) transmission repair, overhaul, fluid specifications, and troubleshooting. Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive system, differential, driveshaft, CV joints, axle shafts. Suspension: Front MacPherson struts, rear independent trailing arm suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications. Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, troubleshooting. Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or optional rear discs), hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake pad replacement, fluid specifications, bleeding procedures. Electrical System: Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, fuses, relays, diagnostic procedures, instrument cluster. Bodywork: Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, window regulators, seals, rust repair guidance. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system servicing, refrigerant handling (R12), component testing. Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, coolant flushes, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments, ignition timing, fuel filter replacement. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts, fault finding for engine performance, electrical issues, starting problems, and drivability concerns. Repair: Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul for all major vehicle systems. Diagnostics: Information on testing sensors, actuators, ECUs, and diagnostic port functions. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance, intermediate repairs, and complete engine/transmission rebuilds. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchable: Yes (typically, depending on original scan quality) Print Quality Quality: High-resolution scans of original factory manuals Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M10B18 Engine Type: Inline-4 Cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) Displacement: 1.8 Liters (1766 cc) Bore X Stroke: 89.0 mm x 71.0 mm Compression Ratio: 8.8:1 or 9.5:1 (depending on market/specific variant) Performance Horsepower: 90 HP (67 kW) @ 5500 rpm (approx.) Torque: 130 Nm (96 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (approx.) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection Ignition System Ignition: Distributor-based electronic ignition system Cooling System Cooling Type: Water-cooled, pressurized system Lubrication System Oil Capacity: Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter Maintenance Valve Adjustment Interval: Recommended every 15,000-20,000 miles (or as per manual) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 4-Speed Manual (Getrag 260) Optional Type: 4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22) Features Drive Type: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Manual Fluid Fluid Type: GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., Castrol EPX 80W-90) Automatic Fluid Fluid Type: Dexron II (or equivalent ATF) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4700 mm (185.0 in) Width: 1700 mm (66.9 in) Height: 1415 mm (55.7 in) Wheelbase: 2755 mm (108.5 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1300-1350 kg (2866-2976 lbs) Gross Vehicle Weight: Approx. 1850 kg (4079 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Rating: Not formally rated by NHTSA in its current form; era-specific safety standards. Active Features ABS: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on later models or specific trims. Passive Features Seatbelts: Three-point front seatbelts, lap belts in rear. Crumple Zones: Designed with front and rear crumple zones for improved impact absorption. Steering Column: Collapsible steering column designed to mitigate occupant injury in a frontal collision. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Radio: Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player; often upgraded in aftermarket. Speakers: Standard speaker configurations, often front and rear. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional cruise control system available on many models. Trip Computer: Some models may have featured a basic trip computer. Connectivity Original Connectivity: N/A (no modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB found in original specification). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (or 12-18 months), depending on driving conditions and oil used. Air Filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles. Spark Plugs: Replace every 30,000 miles (typically Bosch W7DC or equivalent). Coolant Flush: Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil:...
The BMW 518i (E28) represented BMW's entry-level executive sedan in the mid-1980s, offering the brand's renowned driving dynamics and build quality at a more accessible price point.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed against models like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 100, and Jaguar XJ6, emphasizing a sporty driving experience.
Key Features
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive platform, and engaging handling characteristics.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW build quality of the era, known for durability and premium materials.
Engine Options:
Primarily featured the M10 engine family, known for its robustness and efficiency for its displacement.
Manual Value
Utility:
Essential for owners and independent mechanics seeking to maintain, repair, or restore the 1985 BMW 518i, providing factory-level technical data.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage:
All Models, All Engines, All Trim Levels, All Transmission Types for 1985 BMW 518i
8.8:1 or 9.5:1 (depending on market/specific variant)
Performance
Horsepower:
90 HP (67 kW) @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
130 Nm (96 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Ignition System
Ignition:
Distributor-based electronic ignition system
Cooling System
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled, pressurized system
Lubrication System
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter
Maintenance
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Recommended every 15,000-20,000 miles (or as per manual)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
4-Speed Manual (Getrag 260)
Optional
Type:
4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Features
Drive Type:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Manual Fluid
Fluid Type:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., Castrol EPX 80W-90)
Automatic Fluid
Fluid Type:
Dexron II (or equivalent ATF)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4700 mm (185.0 in)
Width:
1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
1415 mm (55.7 in)
Wheelbase:
2755 mm (108.5 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1350 kg (2866-2976 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 1850 kg (4079 lbs)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rating:
Not formally rated by NHTSA in its current form; era-specific safety standards.
Active Features
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on later models or specific trims.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts, lap belts in rear.
Crumple Zones:
Designed with front and rear crumple zones for improved impact absorption.
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column designed to mitigate occupant injury in a frontal collision.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Radio:
Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player; often upgraded in aftermarket.
Speakers:
Standard speaker configurations, often front and rear.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system available on many models.
Trip Computer:
Some models may have featured a basic trip computer.
Connectivity
Original Connectivity:
N/A (no modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB found in original specification).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (or 12-18 months), depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 miles (typically Bosch W7DC or equivalent).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API SG or SF, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (depending on climate). Refer to manual for precise recommendations.
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II (or equivalent).
Known Issues
Rust:
Common rust areas include wheel arches, rocker panels, around the sunroof, and rear window seal. Proper undercoating and rust prevention are key.
Fuel Injector Leaks:
Bosch injectors can degrade over time, leading to leaks or poor spray patterns. Rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
Heater Core:
The heater core is prone to leaking, often indicated by a sweet smell inside the cabin and coolant residue on the windshield.
Idle Control Valve:
Can become clogged or fail, leading to rough idling or stalling.
Preventative Maintenance
Timing Belt:
Note: The M10B18 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, which is generally more durable but still requires inspection for wear and tension.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) has a long-standing reputation for producing sporty, driver-focused luxury vehicles since its inception in 1916.
Model Evolution
E28 Generation:
The E28 chassis succeeded the E12 5 Series and was produced from 1981 to 1988. It was a significant evolution, offering improved aerodynamics, safety, and technology.
518I Positioning:
The 518i was the entry-level variant of the E28 range, introduced in 1981 to broaden its appeal, particularly in markets sensitive to engine displacement and taxation.
Production
Production Years:
E28 5 Series: 1981-1988 (518i specific variants may vary slightly by market).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Dingolfing plant), with some assembly in other countries.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Press:
The E28 5 Series, in general, received critical acclaim for its driving dynamics, engineering, and build quality from automotive publications of its time.
Model Reputation:
The 518i cemented BMW's reputation for producing well-engineered, reliable luxury sedans, even in its base configuration.
Certifications
Factory Standard:
The manual adheres to factory service standards for the E28 platform.