3rd Sep 2012, 09:29

I have the same issue with my 84 528e... thus what has brought me here.

It idles rough, sounds like it's going to croak, and then if I give it some gas, it finally decides to die... This hasn't always happened, but I feel like I might have done something to it to cause this.

A mechanic showed me a "tweak" you can perform with an allen wrench by turning a hex screw near where the air flow is... I can't remember what this "trick" was supposed to do, but I do remember him saying just remember how many times you turn it... which I did not.

Beyond that, I'm thinking I need a new timing chain, O2 sensor, or fuel pump, or all three, as I have never had to replace anything since the day I bought this car for 600 bucks.

If anyone has any insight as to this "tweak" I mentioned, I would like to know more about it.

I have to agree with most everyone on this thread the last 4 years... this is a solid machine, and they truly don't make them like this any more.

17th Mar 2013, 13:53

There are excellent videos on Youtube for finding voltage drains. Otherwise, look for a reputable automotive electronic repair shop.

10th Mar 2019, 21:07

Did you find the electrical drain issue? I seem to have the same draining issue on my 1985 BMW 528e.

12th Mar 2019, 03:19

Does your car have an interior lamp delay on the door setting? Many cars have that problem where the light is already off but the relay stays energized. Try turning the interior lamp switch to permanent off position. If it solves the problem, it may be the time delay relay.

27th May 2021, 04:15

My name is Art. I live in Calif. I am the 2nd owner of a 1984 528E. I have 742k original miles. I only replaced the transmission back in 1988. Other than that my car is in perfect condition. I do some easy work on the car myself. But the harder stuff, I take it to a friend of mine.

7th Sep 2021, 05:26

Great story. I have a 84 528 with 54k on the engine. I purchased it in 88; it was hit in 89, then it sat for 31 years. I finally repaired it and I'm so glad I kept it. It's a wonderful car and I have a long, long way to go before it hits 500k. Thanks for sharing a great car story.