🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Opel Model: Kadett Year: 1988 Generation Model Generation: E (1984-1993) Codes Chassis Code: T85 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: Professional Technicians and DIY Enthusiasts Competitive Analysis Advantage: Provides professional-grade information, equivalent to what technicians use, accessible digitally. Key Features Instruction Format: Numbered steps, bold figure numbers, detailed illustrations, photos, and diagrams. Information Highlight: Notes, cautions, and warnings for critical information. Navigability: Numbered table of contents for quick information retrieval. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas General Coverage: Full Service Repair Page Count Estimated Page Count: Extensive (specific count not provided, but implied to be comprehensive) Manual Type Manual Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format File Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain Chassis: Suspension, Steering, Brakes Electrical: Wiring Diagrams, Ignition System, Lighting, Accessories, Diagnostics Bodywork: Body and Trim, Doors, Windows, Exterior and Interior Components Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks Repair: Component Removal and Installation, Rebuilding Procedures, Adjustments Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Fault Code Interpretation (if applicable to era) Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical diagnostics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Print Quality Printability: Full Printable (all pages) Binding Type Binding Format: Digital Download (PDF) Paper Type Delivery Method: Instant Download (no physical product) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: Likely covers various 1.3L, 1.4L, 1.6L, and possibly 1.8L/2.0L gasoline engines (e.g., Family I OHC engines) and diesel variants (e.g., 1.6D). Performance Horsepower Range: Typically ranging from 60 hp to 115 hp depending on engine and trim level. Torque Range: Varies significantly with engine size and type. Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Carburetor (early models/lower trims) and Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) (later models/higher trims). Engine Management Ignition System: Electronic Ignition (breakerless) common for this era. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Types: Manual transmissions (e.g., 4-speed, 5-speed) were standard on many models. Optional Transmission Types: Automatic transmission (e.g., 3-speed or 4-speed) was a common option. Features Drive Type: Front-wheel drive (FWD) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: Hatchback (3-door and 5-door), Saloon (4-door), Estate/Caravan (5-door), Convertible. Wheelbase: Approximately 2550 mm (for most body styles). Weights Curb Weight: Varies by body style and engine, typically from 900 kg to 1200 kg. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Safety: Limited official crash test data available for this specific year and region; however, Kadett E featured a generally robust passenger cell for its era. Active Features Braking System: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Some higher trims may have offered rear discs. Passive Features Restraints: Seat belts (front and often rear), potential for optional front airbags in later production runs/specific markets. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with optional speaker upgrades. Driver Assistance Advanced Features: Limited by modern standards; may include features like power steering on higher trims, intermittent wipers. Connectivity Modern Integration: Not applicable for its era; designed for analogue systems. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 5,000-10,000 km or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Spark Plug Replacement: Varies by plug type, generally around 30,000-60,000 km. Timing Belt Replacement: Crucial for many engine variants (e.g., OHC engines); typically every 60,000-100,000 km or 4-6 years. Manual will specify exact interval and part numbers. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: Likely 10W-40 or 15W-40 API SG/SH or equivalent, though manual will detail precise specifications and capacity. Coolant: Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual will specify type and capacity. Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on system requirements. Manual will specify type and flush interval. Transmission Fluid: Manual transmission: GL-4 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90). Automatic transmission: DEXRON II or equivalent. Manual will specify type and capacity. Known Issues Common Wear Items: Exhaust systems, suspension bushings, clutch wear, occasional electrical gremlins, rust in common areas (wheel arches, sills) for vehicles of this age. Engine Specific Notes: Carburetor adjustments can be needed, ignition timing may require periodic checks. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Opel Legacy: Opel, a German automaker with a long history of producing reliable and accessible vehicles. Model Evolution Kadett Lineage: The Kadett E (T85) was a significant evolution, praised for its aerodynamic design ('car of the year' award in 1984) and spacious interior. Production Production Years: Kadett E produced from 1984 to 1993. This manual covers the 1988 model year within this generation. Manufacturing Location: Primarily manufactured in Germany and other European Opel plants. 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions European Car Of The Year: The Opel Kadett E generation won the European Car of the Year award in 1984.