🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 518i Year: 1981 Chassis Code: E28 Codes Engine Code Primary: M10B18 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Executive Sedan Target Audience: Owners and independent mechanics seeking in-depth repair and maintenance information for the E28 518i Competitive Analysis Competitors 1981: Mercedes-Benz W123, Audi 100, Jaguar XJ, Volvo 240 Key Features Vehicle Strengths: Renowned BMW driving dynamics, robust engineering, luxurious interior for its class Manual Value Proposition: Empowers owners to maintain and repair their classic BMW effectively, saving on dealership costs and preserving vehicle value 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Models Covered: All 518i variants of the E28 generation Engines Covered: M10B18 (1.8L inline-4) Transmissions Covered: 4-speed manual, 5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic Trim Levels Covered: All applicable trim levels Page Count Estimated Page Count: 500+ 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 Transmission: Manual and automatic transmission service, clutch, driveshafts, differentials Brakes: Hydraulic system, disc and drum brake servicing, parking brake, ABS (if applicable to later E28 models, though unlikely for 1981 518i) Suspension: Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications Steering: Steering gear, power steering system (if equipped), tie rods, steering column Electrical: Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instruments, fuses, relays, diagnostic procedures Bodywork: Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, locks, seals, interior trim, corrosion protection HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system servicing (if equipped) Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and top-ups Troubleshooting: Diagnostic charts for common problems, fault finding procedures for all major systems Repair: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation Diagnostics: Engine performance diagnostics, electrical system troubleshooting, emission control diagnosis Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Quality: High-resolution scans for clear readability, searchable text (OCR'd) Print Quality Print Readiness: Optimized for printing, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual Binding Type Binding For Print: Digital format allows for various binding options upon printing (e.g., coil bound, stapled) Paper Type Recommended Paper For Print: Standard copy paper or heavier weight for workshop durability ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated Displacement: 1766 cc (1.8 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 89.0 mm x 71.0 mm Compression Ratio: 8.0:1 or 8.8:1 (depending on market/tune) Valve Train: SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 8 valves Performance Horsepower Net: 90 PS (66 kW; 89 hp) at 5500 rpm Torque Net: 140 Nm (103 lb-ft) at 3500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91 or higher) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 4-speed manual Getrag 245 Optional Transmission Type Optional 1: 5-speed manual Getrag 260 Transmission Type Optional 2: 3-speed ZF 3HP22 automatic Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically operated, single dry plate Final Drive Ratio Manual: 3.45:1 (typical) Final Drive Ratio Automatic: 3.25:1 or 3.45:1 (typical) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4620 mm (181.9 in) Width: 1700 mm (66.9 in) Height: 1420 mm (55.9 in) Wheelbase: 2770 mm (109.1 in) Weights Curb Weight: 1350 kg (2976 lbs) (approx.) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 1850 kg (approx.) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Ratings Era: No standardized crash test ratings comparable to modern standards Active Features Brakes Front: Ventilated discs Brakes Rear: Discs Passive Features Seat Belts: Three-point inertia-reel seat belts (front), lap belts (rear) Steering Column: Collapsible steering column 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System Options: Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional premium sound systems Instrument Cluster: Analog gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature), warning lights Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional Connectivity Connectivity Features: None (pre-digital era) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first) Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 miles or 24 months Spark Plug Replacement: Every 20,000 miles (depending on plug type) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 (API SF or SG rated) Coolant Type: Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (e.g., BMW Part No. 83 19 2 210 834) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 or DOT 4 Transmission Fluid Manual: GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90) Transmission Fluid Automatic: Dexron II (or equivalent) Known Issues Common E28 Issues: Rust (wheel wells, rocker panels, battery tray), cooling system leaks (hoses, radiator), fuel distributor issues (L-Jetronic), worn suspension bushings, differential seal leaks Specific 518I Issues: M10 engine can be prone to valve seat recession if running on lower octane fuel without additives; early L-Jetronic can be sensitive to vacuum leaks. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Brand Focus: Performance, luxury, engineering excellence Model Evolution Predecessor: BMW E12 5 Series Successor: BMW E34 5 Series Production Production Years E28: 1981-1988...