Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Reputation:
Known for driving dynamics, build quality, and sporty appeal.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus IS200, Alfa Romeo 155
Driving Dynamics:
Rear-wheel drive platform, balanced chassis, independent suspension.
Powertrain Options:
Inline 6-cylinder engines celebrated for smoothness and performance.
Design:
Iconic BMW styling, driver-focused interior.
Primary Coverage:
Workshop Service Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Component Replacement, Electrical Schematics, Specifications
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM)
Powertrain:
Engine (M50/M52 variants), Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Engine Management (DME)
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Clutch, Driveshafts, Differential, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, Hydraulic, Parking), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Body Electrical, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Battery, Alternator, Starter, Engine Control Unit (ECU), Body Control Module (BCM), Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelt Pretensioners)
Bodywork:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Seating Systems
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance Intervals, Fluid Changes (Oil, Coolant, Brake Fluid, Transmission Fluid), Filter Replacements, Inspections
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Diagnosis, Electrical Schematics Interpretation
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Tolerances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Data (Resistance, Voltage)
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic diagnostics and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical system analysis.
Engine Code:
M52B25 (primarily, with potential for M50 variants depending on exact market/build date)
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Horsepower:
Approximately 170-190 hp (varies by specific M50/M52 variant and market)
Torque:
Approximately 180-200 lb-ft (varies by specific M50/M52 variant and market)
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Bosch Motronic engine management
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 specification is ideal if available)
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 260/5)
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 4HP22 EH)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF 2)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent (BMW ATF LT 71141 is often specified for later M52 applications)
Length:
Approx. 174.5 inches (4432 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.7 inches (1390 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.3 inches (2700 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3200-3400 lbs (1450-1540 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle VIN plate for exact GVWR
Towing Capacity:
Not typically specified or recommended for this model.
NHTSA Front Impact:
N/A (Testing protocols different for this era; generally considered safe for its time)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Optional (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control and Traction)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags (standard from approx. 1994 onwards)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners (front seats)
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell with crumple zones
Head Unit:
Factory BMW Business or Professional CD players/radios, often with cassette functionality. Optional CD changers.
Speakers:
Factory speaker systems, some with enhanced Hi-Fi options.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option, controlled by steering wheel buttons or stalk.
Phone Integration:
Optional cellular phone integration kits (older analog/early digital systems).
Oil Change Interval:
BMW recommends every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months with synthetic oil, or based on the 'Condition Based Service' (CBS) system's oil level and condition sensor.
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 2-3 years or approximately 30,000-50,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Manual: Typically lifetime, but periodic inspection and top-off recommended. Automatic: BMW recommended 'lifetime' fill; however, many experts suggest fluid and filter changes every 50,000-60,000 miles for longevity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (BMW part number 81 22 9 401 184 or equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW part number 81 22 9 407 370
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank cracking, water pump impeller failure (often plastic), thermostat housing leaks, radiator leaks.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings (vibration damper bushings), rear trailing arm bushings, shock absorber wear.
Electrical:
Heater control valve failure, Vanos unit noise/performance issues (on M52 engines), ABS sensor failure, pixelated instrument cluster displays.
Engine:
Oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, oil separator system (CCV) clogging leading to leaks.
Brand Focus:
Performance, luxury, and engineering excellence since 1916.
E36 Generation:
Third generation of the 3 Series, succeeding the E30 and preceding the E46.
Launch Year:
1990 (globally for E36), 1992 (US market)
E36 Facelift:
Minor cosmetic updates and powertrain revisions occurred during its lifecycle, particularly around 1995/1996 (e.g., M52 engine introduction).
Production Period:
1990-2000 (globally), 1992-1998 (US market for E36 323i/is)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Regensburg), USA (Spartanburg, SC - for some specific models/years)
