Summary
This is a consolidated index of the BMW service bulletins that apply to the E30, gathered into one page and sorted by system group. It runs to 419 bulletins across 28 system groups, covering everything from connecting rod changes and Motronic fuelling quirks to sunroof adjustment and wind noise.
A service bulletin is not a recall. Bulletins are the notes BMW sent to dealer workshops describing a known fault, a running production change, a revised part number, or a corrected repair procedure. For an E30 owner they are the closest thing to a factory record of what actually went wrong with these cars and what the official fix was, which is why a bulletin number is often the fastest route to the right part number.
How to read the numbering
Bulletin numbers follow the pattern 11 29 82 (688). The first pair is the system group (11 = engine), matching the same group numbering used throughout the parts catalogue and repair manuals. The second pair is the bulletin sequence within that group, and the third is the year. The figure in brackets is BMW’s overall sequential bulletin number.
One thing to watch: BMW frequently reissued a revised bulletin years later under the same number. That is why some entries carry a date of issue later than the year embedded in the number, and why a few titles note that they supersede, or are superseded by, another bulletin. The date column reflects the issue shown on the bulletin itself.
Coverage is not evenly spread. Group 11 (engine), group 13 (fuel system), group 51 (body equipment) and groups 61 and 64 (electrical, heating and air conditioning) account for the bulk of the entries, which is a reasonable map of where these cars gave trouble. Many bulletins name a specific model — 318i, 325e, 325i, 325iX or M3 — or a specific engine such as the M10, M20, M30 or S14, so check the title and description before assuming one applies to your car.
Six groups appear in BMW’s numbering scheme but carry no bulletins here: 37 (integrated suspension), 66 (transmit/receive equipment), 67 (electric motors), 71 (engine and chassis accessories), 84 (communication systems) and 99 (paint work).
Jump to a group
- 11 – Engine (57)
- 12 – Engine Electrical (25)
- 13 – Fuel System (44)
- 16 – Fuel Supply System (3)
- 17 – Cooling System / Radiator (7)
- 18 – Exhaust System (5)
- 21 – Clutch (7)
- 23 – Manual Transmission (7)
- 24 – Automatic Transmission (7)
- 25 – Gearshift Mechanism (2)
- 26 – Driveshaft (3)
- 27 – Intermediate & Special Transmission (3)
- 31 – Front Axle (8)
- 32 – Steering & Wheel Alignment (14)
- 33 – Rear Axle (8)
- 34 – Brakes (16)
- 35 – Pedals (1)
- 36 – Wheels & Tires (13)
- 41 – Body (10)
- 51 – Body Equipment (32)
- 52 – Seats (7)
- 54 – Special Roof / Sunroof (24)
- 61 – General Electrical System (27)
- 62 – Instruments (14)
- 63 – Lights (8)
- 64 – Heating & Air Conditioning (27)
- 65 – Radio & Special Accessories (25)
- 72 – Equipment & Accessories (15)
Group 11 – Engine
57 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 29 82 (688) | Connecting rod modification M10 M30 (superceded by 11 02 94) | Describes differences in connecting rods for the M10 and M30 engines as of May 82 production | August 1983 |
| 11 04 83 (732) | M10 Oil pump sprocket | Change in shaft and sprocket design | April 1983 |
| 11 05 83 (739) | Rough idle, 318i | Increase plug gap to 0.8mm (0.032″) | July 1983 |
| 11 06 83 (752) | Rough idle, Gear noise, AC malfunction ICU malfunction 318i | Install AC diode, jump 0° C switch, test system and if necessary, replace idle control unit | October 1983 |
| 11 08 83 (772) | Non interchangeability of connecting rods M20 | Describes differences in connecting rods between the Munich and Steyr factories in the M20 engine | September 1983 |
| 11 11 83 (788) | Rough Idle / Performance 318i | Reduction of compression and change of distributor, as of Nov 1 1983. | December 1983 |
| 11 01 84 (814) | Engine oil pan leaks (replaces 11 07 83 (769) ) | Informs of new style of paper oil pan gasket. | March 1984 |
| 11 04 84 (849) | Freeze out plugs | New style of plugs, made from zinc coated aluminum | August 1984 |
| 11 05 84 (888) | Engine oil consumption complaint verification and diagnosis | Describes how to handle the diagnosis of excessive oil consumption, and what route to take if it exists | March 1985 |
| 11 06 84 (892) | Engine oil drain plug | Use 9mm long bolt thread in steel pan, 18mm in aluminum pan | November 1984 |
| 11 07 84 (894) | Coolant hose chafing on lifting bracket, 325e | Install edge guard on lifting bracket. | November 1984 |
| 11 08 84 (898) | Engine oil filters | Contains BMW’s concerns about incorrect oil filters | October 1984 |
| 11 09 84 (905) | Toothed belt tensioning pulley P/N 11 31 1 272 424 | Informs of possible problems with timing belt tensioner pulleys of improper manufacture | March 1985 |
| 11 13 84 (926) | Leaky valve cover gaskets, M10, M20 | Replace gasket with metal reinforced version – No longer valid | January 1985 |
| 11 15 84 (939) | Engine oil viscosity ( winter operation ) | Simply states to use viscosity listed in the owners manual for your specific temperature. | December 1984 |
| 11 04 85 (989) | Crankshaft pulley M20 | Do not use pulleys with “Schroth” on front surface | April 1985 |
| 11 05 85 (995) | Ignition timing change 318i | As of May 85 production , ignition timing was increased from 15° @ 2000 rpm, to 26° @ 4000 rpm. | March 1985 |
| 11 06 85 (999) | Ignition timing change, Field fix 318i | States to adjust timing to specs of 11 05 85 for pre May 85 vehicles | April 1985 |
| 11 07 85 (1000) | Factory production changes as of 12/84 | Lists running production changes in the 318i | April 1985 |
| 11 08 85 (1002) | Engine oil leaks, M10 and M30 | Leaks at filter housing caused by high pressure during cold starts. Fix is to replace housing cover. | March 1985 |
| 11 10 85 (1011) | Labor Ops for Carbon removal of intake valves | Gives warranty times for carbon removal | May 1985 |
| 11 12 85 (1040) | Toothed belt tensioning pulley noisy M20 | Noise more likely from belt or cam gear rather than tensioner. | June 1985 |
| 11 15 85 (1056) | All with DME or Jetronic, erratic idle, CO too low or not adjustable | Check for air leaks at valve cover gasket, throttle housing, oil cap, dipstick, vacuum hoses, etc. | September 1985 |
| 11 16 85 (1070) | Grooved valve stem seals M10/M20/M30 | Discusses running production change of valve seals. | August 1985 |
| 11 18 85 (1097) | Camshaft drive belt replacement M20 M21 | Timing belt replacement intervals | August 1988 |
| 11 19 85 (1106) | Cylinder head bolts and valve adjustment | Discusses changes in the cylinder head bolts and revised valve adjustment specs | June 1986 |
| 11 01 86 (1149) | Thermostat, housing and cover M20 and M30 | Running production change of thermostat and housing from 1986 model year | July 1986 |
| 11 04 86 (1190) | Cylinder head gasket M20 | A change in gasket style in the hope of fixing the oil leak that appears between cylinders 3 and 4. | March 1986 |
| 11 05 86 (1190) | Coolant hose retention device M20 | Check for latest style of bypass hose clamp. Install new style that wraps completely around the hose. | June 1986 |
| 11 06 86 (1231) | Intermediate shaft and oil pump drive gears M20 | Production change of hardening process for the drive gears | August 1987 |
| 11 08 86 (1283) | Camshaft sprocket M20 | Improper flange thickness, produced between 7/86 and 9/86. Replace cam sprocket if stamped with W+P286 on the rear face | February 1989 |
| 11 09 86 (1304) | Oil leak at intermediate shaft M20 | Incorrectly seated sealing plug, replace shaft | January 1987 |
| 11 11 86 (1320) | Worn valve guide repair | States that replacing valve guides is no longer a fix, guides are to be reamed and an oversized valve used. | April 1988 |
| 11 04 87 (1364) | Camshaft sprocket M20 | Discontinuation of sheet metal sprocket, lists extra parts required for installation of replacement sprocket | May 1987 |
| 11 05 87 (1419) | Viscous fan clutches | Storage, noise and tightening torque info for fan clutches | October 1987 |
| 11 07 87 (1449) | Oil cooler and pipes | 12/86 production only, noise from poorly isolated cooler. | August 1987 |
| 11 09 87 (1468) | BMW High performance engine oil | Announces release of BMW engine oil | September 1987 |
| 11 11 87 (1514) | Oil pump, 325iX | Lack of pressure at start up due to air lock, after installation of new pump | November 1987 |
| 11 05 88 (1742) | Flywheel and attaching hardware change, M3 | Production change in flywheel and bolts. | November 1988 |
| 11 02 89 (1820) | Engine oil leakage, 325iX/A 525i/A | Warns of phantom leaks from messy oil filter removal, leaving oil sitting in engine mount cavities | February 1989 |
| 11 03 89 (1822) | Engine oil drain plug S14 S38 | Incorrect drain plug length, some got 9mm threads instead of 18mm threads. | February 1989 |
| 11 05 89 (1868) | Incorrect dipstick length, M20 12/88 production | Some models got iX dipstick by accident ID number 1 718 863.9 on bottom of stick is correct for all but iX | May 1989 |
| 11 07 89 (1876) | Crankshaft main bearing service M20 | Describes changes in crankshaft bearing classifications | May 1989 |
| 11 08 89 (1877) | Exchange crankshaft kits, M20 and M70 | Describes bearings supplied with crankshaft kits | March 1990 |
| 11 02 90 (3035) | Oil cooler and oil cooler pipes , except M3 | Post 9/87 production, droning noise, install mount kit | June 1990 |
| 11 03 90 (3044) | New cylinder head bolts M20 | Replacing hex head bolts with Torx head bolts | April 1990 |
| 11 04 90 (3051) | Engine oil cap, all except iX | Weak retaining springs can break, production between 10/89 and 11/89, replace cap | June 1990 |
| 11 05 90 (3058) | Tappet noise after cold engine start up | Noise is normal in most cases, replace lifters only if noise continues after 20 minutes | May 1990 |
| 11 06 90 (3060) | Sodium filled valves | Proper handling and disposal of these valves | May 1990 |
| 11 07 90 (3117) | Throttle housing gasket sealing M3 | Apply a bead of silicone sealer to sealing ridge of gaskets before installing | November 1990 |
| 11 09 90 (3137) | Oil filter head leak M20B25 and S!4 | Leaking O ring at filter head in cars fitted with oil cooler. New repair kit, P/N 11 42 9 059 338 | January 1991 |
| 11 11 90 (3149) | Engine oil capacities | Lists all vehicles and their oil capacities – contains many mistakes | September 1993 |
| 11 01 92 (3484) | Engine hydraulic lock | A bad fuel injector can cause hydraulic lock. Describes procedure for checking and repairing hydraulically locked engine | January 1992 |
| 11 05 92 (3574) | Valve cover gasket M42 | Introduces new valve cover gasket that is re-usable and seals better | June 1992 |
| 11 02 93 (3749) | Oil pipe hollow (banjo) bolt, M10, M30 and M70 | New micro-encapsulated bolt to help prevent them from backing out. | March 1993 |
| 11 10 93 (3885) | Coolant leak from timing case profile gasket, M42 | Introduction of new profile gasket material | November 1993 |
| 11 02 94 (3960) | Connecting rod and piston weight classifications | Weight classification is no longer required. All new BMW rods and pistons are now designed to cover all weight classes. Never mix manufacturers parts. | April 1994 |
Group 12 – Engine Electrical
25 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 04 84 (863) | Improved secondary ignition components | Introduction of silicone cables | August 1984 |
| 12 05 84 (879) | Alternator Ground Strap | Can break, now secured to alternator with bolt rather than nut. Increased eyelet diameter, 5mm to 6mm | November 1984 |
| 12 07 84 (906) | Engine misfire | States to check and replace spark plugs on a regular basis to prevent misfire from lean fuel mixture and bad plugs | January 1985 |
| 12 09 84 (942) | Vehicle will not start 325e | Check for bad 50 amp fusible link, 6 inches from battery | January 1985 |
| 12 02 85 (1071) | Silicone Ignition coil caps | Replace as part of 86 Engine Campaign | |
| 12 03 85 (1085) | Spark plug application chart for BMW vehicles | Contains a copy of spark plug application chart | April 1990 |
| 12 01 86 (1144) | Cold starting 325e produced before 10/85 | Incorrect position of cable on battery junction block | February 1986 |
| 12 02 86 (1188) | Alternator mounting bolt, 325e 12/85 – 2/86 | Lower pivot bolt head must be under 4mm or contact with alternator belt can occur, does not apply to rubber bushing mounted alternators. | March 1986 |
| 12 03 86 (1206) | Secondary ignition component upgrade, 318i to 10/83 | Replace wire set with silicone set as per 86 Engine Campaign | |
| 12 04 86 (1241) | Starter Cable 325 | Starter cable may rub against brake booster, reposition | September 1986 |
| 12 05 86 (1251) | Wire connections to coil | Possible short from terminal 15 to coil cover | August 1986 |
| 12 02 87 (1447) | S14 transport plugs | Replace spark plugs with Bosch X5DC on delivery | August 1987 |
| 12 03 87 (1450) | Distributor rotor, M3 prior to 5/87 production | Misfire caused by bad ignition rotor. | August 1987 |
| 12 04 87( 1453) | M1.1 Motronic Control units, 325i and iC from 3/87 production | Information on labeling of DME control units | August 1987 |
| 12 01 88 (1574) | Moisture in O2 connector, E30 M20 Sep to Nov 87 | Incorrect sealing of G103, O2 connector near right shock tower, no heat shrink, seal with silicone | February 1988 |
| 12 02 88 (1584) | Ground strap from alternator to block, M3 to Dec 87 production | Replace brown ground strap with red strap, part number 12 52 1 312 124 | February 1988 |
| 12 05 88 (1638) | Ignition coil replacement | Replace coil if DME is replaced for output stage failure | May 1988 |
| 12 07 88 (1678) | Motronic M1.1 Circuit suppression | Insert diode harness to pin 12 C101 | January 1990 |
| 12 09 88 (1719) | Power train system repair notification | Request for diagnostic printouts of relevant repairs | May 1989 |
| 12 03 89 (1838) | High pressure engine steam cleaning | Don’t do it, electrical connectors can’t cope. | March 1989 |
| 12 05 89 (1862) | Moisture in C191 Multi-plug, M20 | As a result of high pressure washing, moisture gets into engine harness connector under manifold, replace harness on pre 5/88, remove and dry others. | June 1989 |
| 12 06 89 (1878) | DME M1.3 sensitivity E30 from 6/88 to 5/89 | Remove pin 18 from diagnostic connector – no longer valid, do not perform this procedure | May 1989 |
| 12 02 90 (3115) | Modified distributor cap and rotor M3 | New style distributor cap and rotor from 12/88 on, do not mix components, must be paired . | November 1990 |
| 12 01 91 (3202) | Engine test, ignition timing angle readout M3 | Unable to record timing from C152. Incorrectly wired, cut wires and install in correct positions in a new connector | May 1991 |
| 12 04 93 (3848) | Alternator overcharging | Check engine light for over voltage, replace voltage regulator | September 1993 |
Group 13 – Fuel System
44 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 06 83 (760) | Idle dips below specification with A/Con, 318i | In ambient temps above 90° F idle dips. Too much Freon® in system. Discharge until bubbles appear in sight glass. Recharge system, stop charging immediately that bubbles disappear. | August 1983 |
| 13 08 83 (776) | Idle speed problem with AC, 318i | Replace if date code is prior to 7.83 | October 1983 |
| 13 09 83 (778) | Altitude correction 318i/A | Warning not to interchange 5 and 3 series sensors | October 1983 |
| 13 08 84 (867) | Idle control valve air supply hose becomes disconnected | 318i prior to 3/84 can pop off hose if started with gas pedal depressed. | July 1984 |
| 13 03 85 (1031) | Recall Campaign 85V-058 Idle control valve | 84 318 change idle valve produced before 12/83 | July 1985 |
| 13 04 85 (1036) | Engine surging-AC clutch rapidly engage/disengage | AC system may be overcharged from factory | May 1985 |
| 13 07 85 (1058) | Poor initial driveability, hot engine with AC on. Prior to 1/85 production 325e | Remove brown / red wire, pin 11 , from idle control unit | June 1985 |
| 13 08 85 (1062) | Fuel pump relay, 318i 12/84 – 4/85 start no run | Replace relay dated 7466-0985 to 7466-2885 | August 1985 |
| 13 09 85 (1066) | Idle control air supply hose disconnected 318 prior to 3/84 | Caused by starting car with throttle pedal depressed, check and replace DME, idle control valve an install clamp on supply hose | July 1985 |
| 13 11 85 (1073) | Poor throttle response on acceleration, hot engine | Install restrictor 89 88 2 000 000 in purge line from charcoal canister to throttle housing. | July 1985 |
| 13 12 85 (1067) | Rough idle , 1984 325e | Install purge control valve 11 63 1 707 770 in line between charcoal canister and throttle housing | July 1985 |
| 13 14 85 (1101) | Plastic idle control valve adjustment 318i | Valve out of spec, turn screw in end of valve to raise mA value to 460 at 850 rpm , or 470 at 750 rpm in automatic | December 1985 |
| 13 15 85 (1105) | Installation lubricants for fuel injectors | Use SAE 80 or 90 Gear oil only | January 1986 |
| 13 01 86 (1153) | Electric Fuel Pump Inoperative | Residue from fuel hoses, replace pump, do not replace hoses | February 1986 |
| 13 03 86 (1158) | Exchange of idle control unit. | 86 Engine campaign, change to unit with green stripe | May 1986 |
| 13 04 86 (1159) | Recall Campaign 86E-A01, Emissions | Change idle control unit or check wiring at connector. | May 1986 |
| 13 05 86 (1160) | Installation of 680 Ohm resistor and temp switch | Prior to 10/84, add 680 Ohm resistor to temp switch for DME | May 1986 |
| 13 08 86 (1176) | Fuel Injector Cleaning Procedure | Cleaning Carbon from Injectors | May 1986 |
| 13 09 86 (1179) | Engine campaign procedure for idle control system modification | Used in conjunction with 86 Engine campaign book to perform updates | May 1986 |
| 13 10 86 (1184) | Engine campaign procedure for adjustment of ICV on M20B27 engines, 1984 – 1986 | Used in conjunction with 86 Engine campaign book to perform updates | May 1986 |
| 13 11 86 (1191) | DME main relay, 325 occasional no start | Replace DME relay with P/N 12 63 1 708 646 | October 1987 |
| 13 15 86 (1243) | Use of constant current generator | Use of BMW tool to diagnose idle valve problems | August 1986 |
| 13 17 86 (1260) | 680 Ohm resistor / 70°C temp switch kit | To fix hard starting after SI 130586(1160), replace temp switch | October 1986 |
| 13 18 86 (1264) | Fuel injector balance test | If 86 engine campaign does not clear up rough idle or poor performance, check fuel injectors for equal supply. | September 1986 |
| 13 21 86 (1295) | Idle speed fluctuation | Cracked vacuum line from manifold to fuel pressure regulator | August 1987 |
| 13 01 87 (1345) | 325i/iC 12/86 Hard start | Replace charcoal canister due to loose particles jamming purge valve open. | April 1987 |
| 13 02 87 (1348) | M3 Idle mixture check and adjustment | Details procedure for setting mixture after major work | April 1987 |
| 13 03 87 (1351) | Troubleshooting Lambda control system, Motronic 1.1 | Warns to check for other problems causing mixture problems and setting O2 faults | April 1987 |
| 13 04 87 (1452) | Idle speed and mixture, Motronic 1.1 | Advises not to touch airflow or idle valve adjusting screws. If idle or mixture is bad, fix the problem, don’t compensate for it. | August 1987 |
| 13 01 88 (1564) | Gasoline Fuel Quality Recommendations | Discusses fuel ratings for various engines | November 1989 |
| 13 02 88 (1586) | Recall Campaign 88V-031 1988 325iX | Check clearance between dipstick and throttle lever | March 1988 |
| 13 03 88 (1589) | Idle speed fluctuation 318i, 325e | Idle valve out of adjustment, introduces new tool for checking value of idle valve | February 1988 |
| 13 04 88 (1591) | BMW gasoline additive 88 88 6 900 312 | Use it to prevent carbon deposits, unless fuel used already has additives | February 1988 |
| 13 07 88 (1700) | M3 engine “dieseling” | install updated purge relay 13 90 1 311 722 | August 1988 |
| 13 08 88 (1718) | On board diagnostic flash code chart | SD 89-005 flash code card valid to 89 model year | February 1990 |
| 13 03 89 (1908) | Correct fuel injector application M20B27 with M1.1 | Must use injector number 13 64 1 726 989, white connector , yellow tip | August 1989 |
| 13 03 90 (3039) | Evaporative Purge Valve M20B25 | Rough idle, check engine light, check for crack in molded purge valve hose. | July 1990 |
| 13 04 90 (3040) | Recall Campaign 90E-A01 | Failure of some 86 and 87 325e vehicles to comply with CA law. Change EPROM | July 1990 |
| 13 06 90 (3083) | Air intake boot 318 with M42 until 8/90 production | Install stainless steel support ring to prevent intake boot from collapsing under high vacuum. | June 1990 |
| 13 09 90 (3141) | Throttle potentiometer 318 M42 | Rough idle, check engine light, code 12. Improved throttle switch, date code above 2190X to be installed | December 1990 |
| 13 03 91 (3290) | Adapter harness for air flow meter M42 | From 2/90 to 12/90 install P/N 13 62 1 734 516 adapter harness between AFM and factory harness | July 1991 |
| 13 06 91 (3440) | Recall campaign 91V-219 : Throttle housing, 1991 and 1992 M42 | Replace throttle housing with P/N 13 54 1 739 263 to prevent freezing from moisture in purge line during cold start | April 1992 |
| 13 03 92 (3589) | Engine compartment return fuel hose | New hose and clamp styles | July 1994 |
| 13 02 93 (3735) | Recall Campaign 94V-066 : Fuel hose | M20 and M42 engines, replace feed hoses in engine compartment | July 1994 |
Group 16 – Fuel Supply System
3 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 01 84 (864) | Use of oxygenated fuels | Use in pre 84 models will void warranty, all other models will not suffer damage if oxygenated fuels are used. | July 1984 |
| 16 02 84 (937) | Imported US models with catalytic converter | Euro delivery cars run on leaded fuel require catalytic converter and O2 sensor replaced and fuel system flushed. Not covered by warranty. | March 1985 |
| 16 01 86 (1199) | Hard or no start, noisy fuel pump. Pre delivery pump not working correctly | Pre pump dead, or feed hose split. | August 1986 |
Group 17 – Cooling System / Radiator
7 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17 01 86 (1145) | Bleeding the cooling system 325e | If car is fitted with AC, bleed the radiator from the upper temperature switch in the radiator as well as from the bleed screw | February 1986 |
| 17 01 88 (1743) | New BMW antifreeze | Announces release of factory anti freeze | November 1988 |
| 17 01 92 (3608) | Radiator Expansion Tank Seals M42 | Coolant leak in area of expansion tank. Replace both O rings between tank and radiator P?N 17 11 1 712 966, 17 21 1 712 965 | August 1992 |
| 17 01 93 (3772) | Recall Campaign 93V-015 – M10 | Install heater core bypass pressure valve | May 1993 |
| 17 02 93 (3773) | Recall Campaign 93V-015 – M20 | Install heater core bypass pressure valve | May 1993 |
| 17 02 93 (3774) | Recall Campaign 93V-015 – M42 | Install heater core bypass pressure valve | October 1993 |
| 17 04 93 (3775) | Recall Campaign 93V-015 – S14 | Install heater core bypass pressure valve | May 1993 |
Group 18 – Exhaust System
5 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18 02 84 (878) | 318i Broken hanger at rear muffler | New part number 18 21 1 707 807 | December 1984 |
| 18 01 86 (1137) | Rear mufflers and tail pipes, paint part numbers | Black 51 91 1 907 970 Silver 51 91 1 907 971 | January 1986 |
| 18 01 88 (1562) | Recall Campaign 88E-A01 318i 1/83 – 8/84 | Replace catalytic converter to comply with CA standards | June 1988 |
| 18 02 88 (1771) | Chromed Exhaust Pipe Tip | Warns of potential contact of tip to persons leg. Instructs to press tip on so no more than 8mm extends beyond the end of the tail pipe | December 1988 |
| 18 01 93 (3846) | Hydrogen sulfide odor from exhaust system | Rotten egg smell – recommend different brand of fuel. | August 1993 |
Group 21 – Clutch
7 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21 01 84 (865) | Clutch slave cylinder installation | Warns about potential problems associated with incorrectly installed slave cylinders. | July 1984 |
| 21 02 84 (923) | Manual transmission noise at idle 318i | Check idle speed, check for noise off idle, modify shifter or replace flywheel and clutch | December 1986 |
| 21 01 86 (1169) | Clutch lubrication, dual mass flywheel | Apply Microlube GL261 to input shaft This procedure is no longer valid see 21 01 94 | April 1986 |
| 21 03 86 (1291) | Clutch discs | Asbestos warning for handling clutch discs | November 1986 |
| 21 01 87 (1423) | Noise during engine shut down | Dual mass flywheel can rattle as engine passes through 400 rpm during shut down. For information only. | July 1987 |
| 21 02 87 (1472) | Clutch master cylinder | New design master cylinder | November 1987 |
| 21 01 94 (3953) | Clutch release bearing with plastic sleeve | Do not lubricate sleeve | January 1994 |
Group 23 – Manual Transmission
7 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 23 01 83 (771) | Oil drain and fill plugs seized | Replace yellow plugs with black on ZF transmissions | September 1983 |
| 23 01 84 (827) | Synthetic transmission fluid 325e | As of 12/83 all use Mobil SHC 630 synthetic oil | September 1984 |
| 23 03 84 (884) | Decreasing shift effort of transmission | Use SAE 80, engine oil or ATF depending on ambient temps. Trans noise will increase as oil thins | September 1984 |
| 23 02 85 (1054) | Bolted connection between trans cross member and vehicle body | Replace square head bolts inserted in floor with P/N 23 71 1 130 250 to prevent noise. | June 1985 |
| 23 01 88 (1581) | Manual transmission input shaft lubrication | After cleaning shaft, apply Microlube GL261 P/N 81 22 9 407 436 to splines | February 1988 |
| 23 01 89 (1885) | Input bearing cover oil leak | Ensure cover is positioned correctly | June 1989 |
| 23 02 90 (3018) | Alignment dowel pins | Ensure correct location of dowel pins after transmission removal M10 – in trans, M20 in engine | April 1990 |
Group 24 – Automatic Transmission
7 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24 02 83 (805) | Revised oil pan tightening torque | Reduced torque to 4.5 – 5.0 ft lbs. | April 1984 |
| 24 01 85 (1012) | 4 HP 22 missing spring | Change transmission if spring is determined missing | June 1985 |
| 24 02 85 (1027) | Checking ATF fluid level | New dipstick 24 11 1 207 767 since 2/85, earlier dipsticks too short, change with new one | July 1985 |
| 24 03 87 (1524) | ZF 4 HP 22 Service Action E30 2/86 to 4/86 | Poor quality A clutch , replace clutch | January 1988 |
| 24 05 89 (1945) | Transmission Oil Dipstick, revision | New handle on dipstick, tilt to release. | September 1989 |
| 24 06 89 (1963) | Automatic transmission pickup screen | Deeper filter to prevent suction noises | January 1990 |
| 24 03 90 (3109) | Correct adjustment of shift cable | Improper adjustment after repairs can result in poor shifting | September 1990 |
Group 25 – Gearshift Mechanism
2 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 01 85 (964) | Gearshift lever platform brackets | Use new Allen bolts when removed P/N 25 11 1 205 659. Bolts have micro encapsulated adhesive on threads. One time use only | January 1985 |
| 25 01 88 (1636) | Shift Lever M3 Rattling noise | Use new bushings P/N’s 25 11 2 226 585, 25 11 1 220 439, 25 11 1 220 379, 25 11 1 220 608 | March 1990 |
Group 26 – Driveshaft
3 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26 02 84 (895) | Driveshaft noise and vibration | Shows how to check drivetrain phase, and adjust if necessary | July 1987 |
| 26 01 85 (980) | Drive-line deflection angles | Gives specifications for use with 26 02 84 | February 1985 |
| 26 02 87 (1438) | Driveshaft Precautions | Never allow driveshaft to hang by universals, damage to the universals can result | July 1987 |
Group 27 – Intermediate & Special Transmission
3 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27 01 87 (1505) | Transfer Case Venting 325iX Manual Transmission | Exchange units have plug instead of vent. Replace plug with vent from old unit before installation | October 1987 |
| 27 02 87 (1518) | Towing and on car wheel balancing, 325iX | All wheels must be off ground when towing, and able to spin free when performing on car balancing | November 1987 |
| 27 01 91 (3207) | Transfer case leaking at weep hole, 325iXA | Change in depth of seals, inner seal 1.5mm in from outer edge of housing, outer seal 3.5mm in. | June 1991 |
Group 31 – Front Axle
8 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 31 04 83 (743) | Special lubricant for pressing rubber mounts onto front control arms E30 | Use only lubricant P/N 81 22 9 407 284 | May 1983 |
| 31 06 83 (789) | Working on spring struts, shocks and springs | Warns on correct procedure of strut work | August 1984 |
| 31 03 85 (1087) | Rubber mounts and bushings | Always replace as pairs | August 1985 |
| 31 01 86 (1138) | Link between Stabilizer bar and control arm | Re-torque link nuts at stabilizer bar to 40 -47 Nm (29-34 ft lbs.) to cure clunking at bumps | January 1986 |
| 31 02 86 (1207) | Noise from front suspension | Clean paint from tapered ball joint seats in cross member. | May 1986 |
| 31 03 86 (1259) | Front wheel bearing changes from 5/86 | New style dust caps on wheel bearings, do not reuse dust caps. New style of grease to prevent condensation forming inside bearing | October 1986 |
| 31 01 87 (1356) | Blocking of vehicle springs during shipment | Rubber spacers in springs for shipping, make sure they are removed during pre delivery inspection | October 1987 |
| 31 03 87 (1513) | Front Axle Final Drive 325iX | Fill differential with new oil slowly, allow 20 to 30 seconds before checking and considering full | November 1987 |
Group 32 – Steering & Wheel Alignment
14 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 32 01 83 (766) | Noise in steering column and wheel, 318i | Steering column touches surround, place washer P/N 17 11 9 932 650 between the collar and wheel | September 1983 |
| 32 02 84 (834) | Steering wheel lock E30 | Remove lock and housing and check tumblers for free movement, replace lock or housing depending on results | September 1984 |
| 32 03 84 (848) | Front Axle Camber Adjustment | Eccentric upper strut mounts are available for adjustment | July 1984 |
| 32 04 84 (868) | Replacement of steering gear due to accident | Discusses when to replace steering gear after an accident | September 1984 |
| 32 06 84 (891) | Power steering gear for handicapped persons | Up to 40% more assist, LHD P/N 32 13 1 128 422 RHD P/N 32 13 1 129 277 | April 1985 |
| 32 02 85 (1061) | Power steering system noises at low temperatures | Replace ATF with LHM fluid P/N 81 22 9 407 025 | July 1985 |
| 32 04 85 (1098) | Key blanks from HUF will not fit ignitions | Grind stop shoulder on code side of key | October 1985 |
| 32 01 86 (1186) | Engine noises in passenger compartment | Plug missing form end of hollow steering shaft, remove emblem from wheel and plug column with DUM-DUM | March 1986 |
| 32 02 86 (1281) | Recall Campaign 86V-138 ; steering coupling | Install plates on column knuckle to prevent it separating , causing loss of steering in accident | December 1986 |
| 32 01 87 (1433) | Steering lock assembly production change | Shows change to pin hole for release of lock cylinder | July 1987 |
| 32 02 88 (1594) | M Technik sport steering wheel | Horns do not work or run continuously, deformed horn contacts, replace with new P/N 32 33 1 155 956 | February 1988 |
| 32 05 88 (1763) | Steering column universal joints | Do not allow high pressure water or steam to strike the universals to prevent grease being washed out. | November 1988 |
| 32 03 89 (1880) | Power steering cooler pipe 325iX | If cooler is present, remove and replace existing hoses with P/N 32 41 1 137 750. Cooler can cause pressure build up that may rupture the line from rack to cooler | September 1989 |
| 32 03 91 (3320) | Power steering noise except iX | From 6/90 to 10/91 may have a pressure hose with spiral coil. Replace with hose without coil M20 P/N 32 41 137 153, M42 P/N 32 41 1 133 399 | November 1991 |
Group 33 – Rear Axle
8 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 33 01 84 (856) | Rear axle toe adjustment | Eccentric bushing for rear control arms, P/N 33 32 1 123 105 | July 1984 |
| 33 03 84 (870) | Ring Gear Bolting | New procedure, revised torque to 50-55 Nm, then torque angle 55-60° | July 1984 |
| 33 04 84 (887) | Final Drive Identification Tag decoding | Lists alphanumeric codes for differential identification | October 1984 |
| 33 01 85 (975) | Final drive capacity | E30 volume : 0.9 liters, 1.3 liters for new or rebuilt unit, reset level at 1200 miles | January 1985 |
| 33 01 87 (1329) | BMW differential oil | Change oil every inspection 2, P/N 89 89 2 000 900 | January 1987 |
| 33 03 87 (1430) | Damaged axle shaft joints and differentials | Do not allow axles to hang while running car, do not allow one wheel to be running while another is locked by parking brake or contact with lift. | July 1987 |
| 33 05 87 (1521) | Exchange final drive units | Change over speedometer transmitter when installing exchange differential | November 1987 |
| 33 01 94 (3977) | Leaking final drive | Leaks from area of speedometer transmitter my be caused by incorrectly seated O ring on transmitter. Don’t push O ring past 45° chamfer | April 1994 |
Group 34 – Brakes
16 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 34 03 83 (742) | Replacing front brake pads. | Dust seal can get caught between piston and pad, causing damage to the seal. | May 1983 |
| 34 05 83 (763) | Floating brake caliper guide bolts, 318i. | Do not lubricate slide bolts | September 1983 |
| 34 03 85 (1130) | Brake lining wear warning system. | Describes operation of the brake lining light | January 1986 |
| 34 02 86 (1204) | ABS sensor wire harness routing prior to 2/86. | Re-route harness in engine bay, install mounting clip P/N 61 13 1 371 074 for connector | June 1986 |
| 34 03 86 (1228) | Bleeding brakes on ABS equipped cars. | Reinforcing the need to pump pedal 12 times while bleeder is open on ABS systems | May 1988 |
| 34 06 86 (1292) | Brake pads and brake shoes. | Asbestos warning while handling brake pads | November 1986 |
| 34 03 87 (1407) | Routing of wires for brake pad wear sensors. | Ensure correct routing when changing pads, cable must go through bleed valve dust cap, P/N 34 11 1 153 198 | June 1987 |
| 34 01 88 (1555) | ABS warning light. | False light after tire changes, check all tires are same size and preferably same brand | January 1988 |
| 34 02 88 (1585) | Brake disc checking. | New tools for checking rotor condition | February 1988 |
| 34 03 88 (1671) | ABS indicator – defective diode, after 9/87 production. | Relocation of diode into valve relay from hydraulic unit to lower repair costs if diode fails | May 1988 |
| 34 05 88 (1755) | Brake dust shields. | Lists dangers of using such components, recommends against them | November 1988 |
| 34 06 88 (1784) | Troubleshooting ABS system | Check for and replace loose pulse rings on front wheel bearings. | February 1989 |
| 34 01 89 (1850) | ABS sensor lead faults / repair procedure | Introduction of repair leads, to remove the need to replace complete harness. P/N 61 13 9 061 687 | May 1989 |
| 32 02 89 (1857) | ABS warning light illumination | Adapter harness for installation of DME 1.3 control units into 325iX produced until end of 5/88 production | August 1989 |
| 34 04 89 (1902) | ABS control units E30 except 325iX | Elimination of over voltage protection relay as of 1/89 production. ABS control unit now contains protection diode. | July 1989 |
| 34 05 89 (1968) | ABS control units 325iX | Elimination of over voltage protection relay as of 4/89 production. ABS control unit now contains protection diode. | January 1990 |
Group 35 – Pedals
1 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35 01 85 (1089) | Brake pedal noise | Squeaking from brake light switch at contact point on pedal | September 1985 |
Group 36 – Wheels & Tires
13 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 36 02 84 (893) | Air loss from tires on aluminum wheels | Clean corrosion from rims so that tire seals | January 1985 |
| 36 03 84 (938) | Bent alloy rims | Increase in specified tire pressures with load from 26 psi to 29 psi in attempt to prevent rim damage | December 1984 |
| 36 04 84 (957) | Wheel centering hub corrosion | Use Plastilube P/N 81 22 9 407 103 to prevent corrosion between wheel and hub | May 1985 |
| 36 01 86 (1143) | Snow tire application | Lists appropriate snow tire sizes | September 1988 |
| 36 03 86 (1303) | General Tire Information | Warns to use only specified tires on M cars | December 1986 |
| 36 01 87 (1377) | Wheel Mounting Procedure | Check to make sure the brake rotor retaining screw is tight and flush or below surface of rotor or wheel bolts could loosen | July 1987 |
| 36 02 87 (1390) | Clips for wheel balance weights | Change to single style of clip for two piece wheel weights | October 1987 |
| 36 03 87 (1426) | Damage to wheels | Discusses the possibility of wheel damage from driving on a flat. Shows where to check for run-out | July 1987 |
| 36 01 88 (1569) | Tire mounting procedure | Do not use Silicone spray to lubricate tire beads when installing | January 1988 |
| 36 02 88 (1627) | Balancing of wheel and tire assemblies | Discusses balancing procedure to achieve accurate results | June 1989 |
| 36 03 88 (1762) | Paint finish on BMW light alloy wheels | Suggests having wheels bead blasted before repainting to achieve the best results | November 1988 |
| 36 02 90 (3150) | Snow tire application chart for 90-91 models | Lists appropriate snow tire sizes | November 1990 |
| 36 02 92 (3512) | Wheel fastening bolts | New style has hollow head, is 9 grams lighter than old style, will cause imbalance if mixed | February 1992 |
Group 41 – Body
10 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 41 04 83 (740) | Wind noise | Discusses various locations of wind noise and testing / repair procedures | May 1983 |
| 41 05 84 (928) | Buzzing sound, 318i to end of 5/85 production | Buzzing between 55 and 70 mph, check driveshaft phase, if ok, load trunk with weight, if problem is fixed with weight, install angle bracket kit P/N 51 71 9 057 482 | April 1985 |
| 41 03 85 (1032) | Trunk lid torsion springs | Stronger springs after installation of spoiler or large tool kit. P/N 41 62 1 916 145, 41 62 1 916 146 | May 1985 |
| 41 04 85 (1047) | Trunk lid / trunk light | Catch can come loose allowing light to stay on, replace catch | May 1985 |
| 41 01 86 (1249) | Trunk compartment leaks | Discusses main leakage point and how to seal them | September 1986 |
| 41 02 87 (1542) | Trunk Leakage | Gives check list of possible leak areas | January 1988 |
| 41 04 89 (1987) | Rear deck lid gas struts | Gives part numbers and instructions for installing a second gas strut on trunk lid to prevent deformation of lid. Customer complaint only | February 1990 |
| 41 01 90 (3027) | Broken door hinge studs | Introduces replacement part numbers for repairing broken hinge studs | April 1990 |
| 41 01 91 (3289) | Bubbles in or damage to vinyl covering of soft top storage cover iC only | Announces introduction of replacement vinyl, rather than having to replace entire lid | August 1991 |
| 41 02 93 (3892) | Replacement of rear battery tray mount, iC | From 3/93 to 6/92, battery tray bracket may crack. Replace with P/N 41 11 8 171 147 | December 1993 |
Group 51 – Body Equipment
32 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 51 02 83 (736) | Windshield and rear window rubber frame, 318i | Gives removal instructions for new style windows | October 1983 |
| 51 03 83 (738) | Knocking noise from vicinity of oil pan in cold conditions | Left plastic cover, forward of wheel, may be touching oil pan. Install bracket P/N 65 11 1 359 415 | April 1983 |
| 51 01 84 (820) | Left side of trunk becomes hot, 318i prior to 9/83 | Install heat shield P/N 51 48 1 911 997 | March 1984 |
| 51 02 84 (825) | Front side window breakage / high operating effort | Windows may break, check alignment of window | April 1984 |
| 51 05 84 (909) | Window regulators and motors jamming | Incorrect assembly of new unit. Motor and regulator must be removed as a unit, or damage can be caused to regulator | January 1985 |
| 51 07 84 (945) | Rear window rubber seal | Remove window and install edge guard on glass | December 1984 |
| 51 02 85 (1057) | Frozen door locks, hard to turn | Clean locks with P/N 82 14 9 400 193 and lubricate with P/N 81 22 9 407 067 | October 1985 |
| 51 03 85 (1060) | Rear pop out windows, creak or squeak | Place sliced vacuum under hinge. | March 1986 |
| 51 05 85 (1102) | Power window motors 85 year model only | Replace motors with production dates from 8/84 to 3/85 | April 1986 |
| 51 04 86 (1198) | Front spoiler installation | Pre 86 E30 must have later grilles installed with spoiler or poor airflow to radiator will result | April 1986 |
| 51 05 86 (1226) | Door lock cylinder with deadbolt position | Hard to turn, remove lock cylinder, clean off corrosion from moving parts and lubricate with grease | July 1986 |
| 51 06 86 (1234) | Soiled Pearl Beige armrests | Clean with shop towel and mineral spirits | November 1986 |
| 51 07 86 (1236) | Front spoiler, side bracket repair kit | P/N 88 88 9 999 027 to repair broken side brackets from curb impacts | April 1987 |
| 51 08 86 (1261) | Power windows sticking | Procedure for adjusting windows correctly | October 1986 |
| 51 11 86 (1317) | Rear Side windows 1987 and later 325 2 door vehicles | Change in thickness from 3 to 4mm on rear side glass. as of 9/86 production. | January 1987 |
| 51 02 87 (1365) | Removal of rear side window and regulator | If no clearance to remove regulator, adjust studs IN on regulator to gain clearance | April 1987 |
| 51 04 87 (1369) | Installation of front spoiler, 325iS | Explains difference in procedure from 325eS | April 1987 |
| 51 10 87 (1437) | Bonded front and rear windshield installation instructions M3 | Extra info supplied to be added to repair manual for replacement of these windows | July 1987 |
| 51 13 87 (1503) | Frozen or sticking door lock cylinders | De-icers act as solvent and clean out lubricant, use P/N 81 22 9 407 421 instead. | January 1988 |
| 51 05 88 (1607) | Rear view mirror with map lights | Mirror may vibrate if contact foot is not correctly positioned against glass. | March 1988 |
| 51 07 88 (1653) | Rear license plate mounting, 88 model year | Larger mounting nuts to move plate away from body panel, danger of rubbing through paint with standard hardware | August 1988 |
| 51 08 88 (1704) | Door latch mounting screws, 325iC | Replace Phillips latch screws with Torx version with micro encapsulated adhesive | August 1988 |
| 51 04 89 (1861) | Plastic bumper repairs | Announces new repair compound from 3M that now allows plastic bumpers to be repaired rather than replaced | May 1989 |
| 51 08 89 (1890) | Rear side window trim, 2 door | Trim strips can come loose, discusses procedure for gluing strips back in place | June 1989 |
| 51 14 89 (1985) | Rust in front or rear window openings, M3 | Warns of damage potential to paint when replacing bonded glass | November 1989 |
| 51 02 90 (3183) | BMW electrochromic Mirror | Trouble shooting procedure for automatic mirror | December 1990 |
| 51 01 91 (3216) | Electric window motors | Check function of thermal circuit breaker by holding switch in the up position for 10 seconds, click should be heard from door. For intermittent motor problems, this breaker may be cutting out due to load from a poorly aligned window or other problem | March 1991 |
| 51 02 91 (3236) | Recall campaign 91V-054 : Knee bolster, 1991 318 | Bend down metal lip of bolster to give more clearance between bolster and lower steering column cover | June 1991 |
| 51 03 92 (3470) | Additional window stops, Convertible | Beginning May 91 production an extra door window stop is fitted. Adjust through plastic plug in center of door bottom | August 1992 |
| 51 02 93 (3778) | Rear quarter window seals tear, iC | Replace seals and shave corner cover of door 3mm | April 1993 |
| 51 09 93 (3856) | Central locking system failure | Failure of system due to blown internal fusible link in control unit. Replace control unit | October 1993 |
| 51 13 93 (3893) | Replacement of battery tray | iC produced between 3/93 and 5/93 have defective threaded bushing for battery hold down. Replace tray. | December 1993 |
Group 52 – Seats
7 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 52 01 83 (720) | Limiting Front seat movement | E30’s have a stop on seat rails stopping rearward movement 50mm before maximum adjustment. Remove stop for tall drivers. | April 1983 |
| 51 01 85 (1069) | Whitish discoloration of backrest rear panel | Remove with windshield washer concentrate P/N 82 14 9 400 270 | July 1985 |
| 52 01 86 (1235) | Care of leather upholstery | Discusses KARNEOL P/N 81 22 9 400 901 as the best leather conditioner / cleaner available | August 1986 |
| 52 04 87 (1551) | Pivot pins for seat cushions | Install new pivot pins P/N 52 10 919 478 whenever they are removed | May 1988 |
| 52 03 88 (1587) | Upholstery fastening clips ( hog rings) | Hog ring P/N 52 10 1 945 543, Tool P/N 88 88 6 520 050 | June 1988 |
| 52 01 89 (1788) | Repair or replacement of front seat | Replacement seat parts may differ in appearance to original parts due to part standardization. New rails on seats prior to 9/85 require different nuts, P/N 52 10 8 100 424 | January 1989 |
| 52 01 91 (3410) | Repair of leather seat covers, iC | Split back seat covers from ultra violet radiation and improper maintenance can be fixed cheaper by a local upholstery shop than by replacing cover. | November 1991 |
Group 54 – Special Roof / Sunroof
24 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 54 01 83 (716) | Sunroof (with plastic gate) adjustments | New adjustment procedure for roofs with plastic gate | February 1983 |
| 54 01 84 (818) | Improper gap between sunroof lid and roof | New choice of seal thickness. | March 1984 |
| 54 02 85 (1023) | Sunroof lid rattles | Replace contact pads of front slides | April 1985 |
| 54 01 87 (1346) | Convertible top operation, care and cleaning | Tips on extending top life | March 1987 |
| 54 02 87 (1374) | Adjustment of convertible top | Describes procedure for adjusting top | April 1987 |
| 54 04 87 (1429) | Temporary Vehicle Licenses | Warns against sticking temporary tags to the rear window. | July 1987 |
| 54 05 87 (1487) | Sunroof mounting | Screws are micro encapsulated and should be replaced if removed | October 1987 |
| 54 06 87 (1508) | Service installation of Accessory hardtop | Procedure for setting up hard top adjustments on first installation | January 1988 |
| 54 01 88 (1605) | Convertible top repair hints | Seal replacement hints | June 1988 |
| 54 02 88 (1714) | Loose front seal of convertible top | Can come loose, re-glue with Loctite Black Max 38050. | September 1988 |
| 54 03 88 (1723) | Convertible top repair kit | To repair small holes or tears, P/N 81 22 9 407 536 | December 1989 |
| 54 01 89 (1805) | Chafing damage to convertible top material | Top may rub on edge of storage compartment, prior to 9/88, grind down rough edges | May 1989 |
| 54 02 89 (1863) | Leak at rear window of accessory hardtop | Clean leak area and force a bead of adhesive P/N 81 22 9 407 526 between window and frame | April 1989 |
| 54 03 89 (1864) | Noise (rattle or vibration) from right front area of sunroof | Contact between cable guide and right front drain tube or clamp. | April 1989 |
| 54 02 90 (3022) | Replacement parts for convertible top | Announces release of some pivot screws not on parts fiche at time | February 1990 |
| 54 03 90 (3059) | Sunroof adjustment | Correctly adjusted roof will not be even with surrounding roof. Should be 1mm low at front and 1mm high at rear | April 1990 |
| 54 01 91 (3231) | Door windows hit top when opening or closing door, iC | New tensioning springs for roof to prevent tensioning cables from stretching , causing overlay of roof | July 1991 |
| 54 02 91 (3264) | Water leaks from front latch, iC | Plastic covers on latches damaged or missing. Install P/N 54 31 1 971 255 | May 1991 |
| 54 03 91 (3354) | Upgraded parts for Electro mechanical soft top , iC | Install updated parts to cars produced before 4/91 | September 1991 |
| 54 06 92 (3627) | Damage to soft top | Incorrect installation of wire tie retaining plastic sleeve on tensioning spring can damage top material over time. | October 1992 |
| 54 07 92 (3670) | Installation of AMCO brand soft top. | New soft top manufactured in US has different installation instructions, take care. | November 1992 |
| 54 02 93 (3757) | Marking or rear window by linkage cover | Replace cover with P/N 51 71 4 346 227. Effects E/M top only | April 1993 |
| 54 03 93 (3782) | E-M top frame breaking , iC | Replacement arm available to replace broken one. | May 1993 |
| 54 05 93 (3860) | Soft top material rubs on tension spring mount, iC with E-M top | Modify right side spring anchor | October 1993 |
Group 61 – General Electrical System
27 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61 02 84 (959) | Battery vapor expansion tank | Check and empty tank whenever battery is removed or vehicle suffers from overcharging | January 1985 |
| 61 01 85 (1034) | Sticking relays | Check for sticking relays in high draw situations, or when components continue to run after shut down | July 1985 |
| 61 04 85 (1121) | Actuation of the deadbolt position | Only the master key has this feature. | December 1985 |
| 61 05 85 (1123) | Sticking push button type switches (windows) | The switch opening in the console is too small, causing pressure on the switch | January 1986 |
| 61 02 86 (1242) | Battery Vent Tank | Batteries now have vent tanks, transfer tank to new battery | July 1986 |
| 61 03 86 (1244) | Temporary Wiper Blades, Beginning 12/88 Production. | Temporary wipers on new cars, install correct wipers during Pre Delivery Inspection | December 1988 |
| 61 04 86 (1287) | Recall Campaign 86V-151 Brake light switch | 86 and 87 models with high mount brake light, install switch P/N 61 31 1 368 786 | December 1986 |
| 61 01 87 (1327) | Windshield wiper motor erratic operation | Erratic operation in intermittent speed during low temperatures. Too much grease in motor transmission. Remove motor and cover and remove grease. | February 1987 |
| 61 06 87 (1445) | Rechargeable flashlight / socket | Fuse 21 blows due to foreign objects in socket. Ensure light or foam pad is installed in socket | August 1987 |
| 61 07 87 (1474) | Windshield wiper / washer control unit | Washers or wipers will not shut off, internal fault in relay, replace with P?N 61 31 1 368 199 | September 1987 |
| 61 08 87 (1476) | Rear window defogger 325iC | Check heating coil condition by measuring draw across fuse 8 , good coils will have 8 – 11 Amp draw. | November 1987 |
| 61 02 88 (1596) | Faulty fuses | Visually check fuses for improper crimp at top of each leg | February 1988 |
| 61 05 88 (1625) | Fusible links | Soldered 50 amp P/N 12 41 1 706 111. Screwed 80 amp P/N 61 13 1 382 065 | April 1988 |
| 61 06 88 (1699) | Corrosion in harness connector at A pillar / door | Improper sealing in door harness boot, replace both sides of connector if corrosion found | August 1988 |
| 61 01 89 (1797) | Glove compartment wiring E30 prior to 9/88 | Power to light moved from full time power to accessory power to prevent accidental battery draw | January 1989 |
| 61 11 89 (1944) | Jump starting of vehicles | Vehicle electrical system will suffer damage if jump started with more than 15 volts, turn on as much electrical draw as possible before disconnecting cables. | October 1989 |
| 61 01 90 (3019) | Battery electrolyte level | Warns to check level on a more frequent basis during winter months due to extra power draw. | January 1990 |
| 61 04 90 (3082) | Contact ring / horn contact causing noise | Grease the contact pin and ring with copper paste | June 1990 |
| 61 05 90 (3085) | Fuel pump relays | Replace SWF relays with Siemens | November 1990 |
| 61 06 90 (3107) | Horn malfunctions – SRS equipped vehicles | Insufficient clearance of bag cover and horn bridge. Possible short between bridge and wheel | September 1990 |
| 61 09 90 (3123) | Clicking noise from brake light switch | Insulate switch with 1/2 inch foam | October 1990 |
| 61 11 90 (3148) | Central locking actuator motors | Water entering actuator, ensure correct location , seal with plastic cover if necessary | November 1990 |
| 61 03 91 (3244) | Battery electrolyte | Low fluid can cause damage to battery, check and fill as per SI 61 01 90 | June 1991 |
| 61 07 91 (3291) | Fuel pump fuse F11, 1991 318iC | Incorrect fuse rating listed ETM and owners manual , should be 15 amp not 7.5 amp | June 1991 |
| 61 12 91 (3391) | 65Ah Hybrid Battery for engine compartment, iC | New heat resistant battery for mounting in engine bay | May 1992 |
| 61 13 91 (3401) | Recall Campaign 92V-140 : Wiper ground | Move wiper switch ground to left lower screw on column, up to 6/91 production | December 1992 |
| 61 03 94 (4032) | Brake light switch | New style switch, quiet operation | August 1994 |
Group 62 – Instruments
14 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62 02 84 (824) | High speedometer readings | More than 4% high gently turn needle down further at rest | April 1984 |
| 62 03 84 (886) | Clock Liquid Crystal Display | New OBC has back light, don’t change out OBC due to loss of visibility of display | November 1984 |
| 62 04 84 (901) | Circuit board – service indicator / temp gauge | Damage to circuit board from mixing lower screws securing cluster to dash. Longer screws can damage circuit board if placed in wrong holes | December 1984 |
| 62 03 85 (1033) | Coding plugs | Improper tachometer or economy gauge reading, incorrect coding plug. Contains coding plug chart | June 1985 |
| 62 05 85 (1075) | Service indicator lights | If lights go out too quickly, i.e. one light every 200 miles, change fuel economy gauge. | July 1985 |
| 62 02 86 (1151) | Service interval indicator printed circuit board | Motometer board installed in VDO cluster requires a tab be broken off in the cluster for clearance. | February 1986 |
| 62 03 86 (1229) | Erratic instrument cluster operation | Check, in order, fuses coding plug, coding plug circuit board. | January 1988 |
| 62 01 87 (1371) | Erratic / incorrect operation of Fuel / Temp gauges | Check for tightness of nuts on rear of gauges. | April 1987 |
| 62 02 87 (1391) | Check Engine light, 1987 325iC | Fuse 10 is blown. Wire for light can rub on additional support behind cluster in iC models | July 1987 |
| 62 05 88 (1689) | Active check control M3 | Check display flashes in cluster without fault light in overhead display. Check resistance at C101, disconnected, engine side. Pin 2 and ground 0 Ohms, pin 10 and ground 1000 Ohms | July 1988 |
| 62 01 89 (1803) | Handling of instrument cluster printed circuit boards | Use static protection, package correctly for shipping | January 1989 |
| 62 04 89 (1913) | Service interval indicator II ( 7 LED’s) from 6/89 | Design improvements, change to lithium batteries, batteries only needed if main battery disconnected. | November 1989 |
| 62 02 90 (3023) | Service interval indicator 1 (9 LED’s) | New style board with Lithium rather than NiCad, on off switch for replacement boards for pre 1/86 cars | April 1990 |
| 62 04 91 (3245) | Inspection light in service indicator comes on with one or more green LED’s still on | All 318 with M42, Incorrect coding plug which should have number 23 on back. | March 1992 |
Group 63 – Lights
8 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63 01 85 (1014) | Seat belt warning light 85 318i | O2 sensor light discontinued, seat belt light moved to above mirror | April 1985 |
| 63 02 85 (1128) | Fog light relay missing E30 prior to 1/1/86 | Install relay during Pre Delivery Inspection | February 1986 |
| 63 01 86 (1165) | Fog light wiring connections 325es | Incorrect fog light connector, replace with correct one | February 1986 |
| 63 02 87 (1409) | Cleaning of Plastic Parts | Do not use solvents to clean tar or Cosmoline of tail light lenses, lenses will crack. Use fuel oil. | June 1987 |
| 63 03 87 (1548) | Headlights / Fog lights remain on when ignition off | Improper relay’s, no diodes installed. Replace with diode relays | January 1988 |
| 63 01 88 (1601) | Ellipsoid Headlights /Fog lights, condensation | Normal, will dissipate within minutes of light being turned on. Caused by high temperatures and vent system | February 1988 |
| 63 02 88 (1732) | Center high mount stop lamp | Warning not to obstruct lamp with stickers or tint | October 1988 |
| 63 04 91 (3293) | Interior light delay | New timer, door handle contact eliminated, now uses interior light switch | June 1991 |
Group 64 – Heating & Air Conditioning
27 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 64 03 83 (749) | Heater control valve fuse installation, 318i | All models have a 2 amp fuse installed between the heater control valve and it’s connector, blue and brown wires. Standard since May 1983 | May 1983 |
| 64 03 84 (826) | Air conditioning noise with 4 vane compressor 1984 318i | Replace with 5 vane compressor (green label) on customer complaint of noise | September 1984 |
| 64 08 84 (852) | Heating system complaints | Incorrect operation of controls, or poorly seating vent doors. | December 1984 |
| 64 13 84 (880) | Recall Campaign 84V-107 1984 318i | Install heater control valve inline fuse | November 1984 |
| 64 15 84 (900) | Air conditioning compressor – Electrical, 318i | Clutch does not engage due to cut or loose connection. | December 1984 |
| 64 16 84 (940) | Air conditioning / Heater blower motor switch | Some 85 model year 325e got 3 speed switch instead of 4 speed, change control panel and switch | December 1984 |
| 64 05 85 (1038) | Refrigerant Capacities | E30 2.1 lbs., M3 1.9 lbs. | July 1987 |
| 64 06 85 (1110) | Annoying sweet odor from heater | Leaking heater core, updated core released | December 1985 |
| 64 08 86 (1284) | Air conditioning compressor clutch does not engage | Check diode and wire from diode to clutch | December 1986 |
| 64 01 87 (1471) | Compressor clutch replacement, rotary style compressors | Newly released clutch kits. Pre 9/87 P/N 64 52 1 380 071. Since 9/87 P/N 64 52 1 386 297 | January 1988 |
| 64 01 88 (1566) | Auxiliary Fan Low Speed Resistor | Procedure to replace Auxiliary fan resistor | January 1988 |
| 64 03 88 (1604) | Auxiliary cooling fan M3 | By design, earlier cars have auxiliary fan wired to run with ignition on, can be updated to later style with kit P/N 17 11 9 061 201 | March 1988 |
| 64 04 88 (1622) | AC High Pressure Line | Deletion of fuel cooler, new AC lines do not have fuel cooler, eliminate cooler if replacing line. | April 1988 |
| 64 12 88 (1648) | Insufficient heating or cooling or odors. | Check for obstruction of vents under seats. | May 1988 |
| 64 14 88 (1666) | Air conditioning compressor controls | 1/88 and later have compressor control switch eliminated on lower and center air distribution slides | May 1988 |
| 64 16 88 (1682) | Inoperative AC compressor M3 | Bad connection at 108°C coolant temp switch. | July 1988 |
| 64 17 88 (1776) | Fogging up of windows | Use AC to dehumidify air | December 1988 |
| 64 02 89 (1821) | Fusible plug – Receiver / Drier | If it blows out, assume the high pressure cut out switch is inoperative. | February 1989 |
| 64 07 89 (1943) | Inoperative Air Conditioning | A/C button fails to illuminate, AC fails to operate. Cars up to 1/88 with Alpine weather band radio, sticker can fall off radio into slide controls, preventing slide from activating circuit | October 1989 |
| 64 06 90 (3095) | Air conditioner compressor does not engage, 1988 and earlier | Do not replace faulty compressor enable microswitch, cut wires and join with an inline fuse. Brings system in line with later production | August 1991 |
| 64 09 90 (3162) | Center air distribution lever binds | Fabricate and install 2 spacers on top of the heater housing, forward of the radio | December 1990 |
| 64 08 91 (3373) | Musty odors form air conditioning units | Apply spray disinfectant – not covered by warranty | October 1991 |
| 64 12 91 (3453) | Air conditioning belt length, 318 M42 | Belt specification changed from 890 to 885mm | February 1992 |
| 64 15 92 (3654) | Air conditioning compressor part numbers M20B25 engine | If car requires P/N 64 52 8 391 511, use P/N 64 52 1 385 416 | November 1992 |
| 64 17 92 (3674) | Small flakes from A/C vents | Oxidization coming loose from fins of evaporator. Replace evaporator with P/N 64 51 8 391 780 | August 1983 |
| 64 01 93 (3721) | Air conditioning belt tension, M20B25 engine | Improper tension may cause belt to rub on coolant hose. | January 1993 |
| 64 08 93 (3836) | Air conditioning howl / whistle, 93 iC equipped with R134a | Replace suction hose with P/N 64 53 9 066 449 | July 1993 |
Group 65 – Radio & Special Accessories
25 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 65 04 83 (793) | Power antenna mast replacement | Newly available masts, no need to replace antenna. | April 1984 |
| 65 04 84 (821) | Anti Theft Radio 1985 on | Announces release of Anti Theft radio | June 1985 |
| 65 05 84 (981) | Cassette tape failures | Ensure tape is tightly wound and in good condition before inserting into tape deck | December 1984 |
| 65 04 85 (1013) | Electronic Antenna mast not retracting fully | Motor runs for 15 – 20 seconds, if mast is bent, or ambient temp cold, mast may not be retracted fully in this time, turn radio back on and off. | April 1985 |
| 65 09 85 (1133) | Radio speakers emit popping and cracking sounds | Hi-Fi system, improper wiring connections at radio. | February 1986 |
| 65 01 86 (1142) | Fuse locations for anti theft radio / amplifier | Located on the outside of each unit. | February 1986 |
| 65 02 86 (1197) | Speakers cutting out | Improper wiring at amplifier. Pin 4 should be black / brown. Pin 18 should be brown / black. | April 1986 |
| 65 03 86 (1200) | On board Computer II back lighting | Check bulbs before replacing unit | April 1986 |
| 65 06 86 (1270) | Alpine anti theft radio with weather band 1987 | Introduction to weather band radio | November 1986 |
| 65 07 86 (1279) | On Board Computer II – Stopwatch Function | Inoperative, disconnect battery for 15 seconds | October 1986 |
| 65 08 86 (1280) | Pioneer anti theft radio with weather band , 1987 | Introduction of weather band radio | November 1986 |
| 65 09 86 (1288) | Cassette removal from Alpine anti theft radio | Use screwdriver in 10mm slot in top of radio, slide lever from front to rear to eject cassette | November 1986 |
| 65 10 86 (1310) | Cruise control actuator disengages and cannot be reset | Defective actuator, replace | January 1987 |
| 65 01 87 (1372) | BMW Cellular telephone / antenna installation instructions | Latest version of instructions | March 1990 |
| 65 03 87 (1383) | Sound system , excessive static / whining. | Missing ground wire from rear of radio | October 1988 |
| 65 07 87 (1446) | Coding plug / On Board Computer II | incorrect readings due to faulty or incorrect coding plug . | May 1988 |
| 65 09 87 (1460) | Antenna cable testing procedure | Antenna cable contains capacitor, it will read open when tested with Ohm meter. | August 1987 |
| 65 10 87 (1464) | Radio interference 1/86 to 4/87 production | High frequency noise in accessory position only. Disconnect Instrument cluster, if noise goes away, replace SI board | August 1987 |
| 65 11 87 (1466) | Repairing power antennas | Printed circuit board is available separately for antenna | September 1987 |
| 65 06 88 (1703) | 1989 Alpine Anti Theft CD ready radio and 12 disc changer | Introduces these units | September 1988 |
| 65 07 88 (1706) | 1989 Pioneer Anti Theft CD ready radio and 6 disc changer | Introduces these units | September 1988 |
| 65 10 88 (1735) | Speaker connections | Don’t wiggle the connector sideways, damage to cone wiring can result | November 1988 |
| 65 12 88 (1757) | CD ready radios – speaker connections | Lists harnesses required to eliminate dash fader with CD ready radios | December 1988 |
| 64 02 91 (3223) | Static noise on radio when driving over bumps | 1991 Alpine radio, squeeze outer antenna plug contacts in and open center pin out | April 1991 |
| 65 05 91 (3265) | BMW remote control vehicle security system | Failure to lock doors, must wait for interior dome lights to go out before pressing button on remote – normal operation | June 1991 |
Group 72 – Equipment & Accessories
15 bulletins
| Bulletin number | Title | Description | Date of issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 72 01 84 (815) | Roof Racks, 2 door E30 | Seal may remain pushed in after roof rack removal. Push entire length of seal in to achieve good cosmetic appearance | March 1984 |
| 72 04 85 (1125) | Front seat belts 9/83 and later | Introduces relocation option of shoulder belt pivot | December 1985 |
| 72 01 87 (1325) | Seat /Safety belt components, non interchangeability | Warns of interior swaps causing incompatibility of seat belt components | January 1987 |
| 72 03 87 (1541) | Threaded front towing eye 1988 on | Instruction for PDI placement of eye in trunk | January 1988 |
| 71 01 88 (1645) | SRS repairs | List of what must be replaced after firing of airbag. | May 1988 |
| 72 04 88 (1665) | SRS system component replacement | Request for diagnostic printouts to accompany all SRS parts returns | May 1988 |
| 72 01 89 (1789) | SRS Unit Installation Procedure | Describes correct procedure for airbag installation | January 1989 |
| 72 03 89 (1835) | Handling of SRS units | Handling and shipping procedures for airbags | March 1989 |
| 72 01 90 (3008) | SRS Flash Codes | Lists 2 flash codes omitted from repair manual. | January 1990 |
| 72 03 90 (3047) | Seat belt guide, 325i convertible | New guide to prevent belt twisting when allowed to retract rapidly. In production from 3/90 | January 1991 |
| 72 02 91 (3338) | SRS diagnostics | Describes how to get fault codes with the BMW service tester. | August 1991 |
| 72 04 91 (3388) | Pyrotechnic safety belt tensioner for 92/93 iC | As of 10/91 production, all are fitted with pyrotechnic tensioner | May 1994 |
| 72 01 92 (3633) | Testing resistance of airbag igniter circuit | Only Fluke digital volt / ohm meters are approved for this check, use of meters with high testing voltages could ignite airbag | September 1992 |
| 72 02 93 (3794) | Collision repair guidelines restraint systems | Must replace airbag, contact ring, impact sensors, control unit and seatbelt tensioner after deployment | May 1994 |
| 72 04 93 (3822) | Checking airbag systems | Re-evaluation of 3 yearly inspection requirements. No longer necessary due to self monitoring system | June 1993 |
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