Engine Mechanical:
Full engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, component testing, timing belt/chain replacement (if applicable), cylinder head repair, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and main bearing service.
Engine Management And Diagnostics:
Fuel injection system (DME), ignition system, sensors (MAP, TPS, O2, knock), actuators, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting flowcharts, ECU testing and repair (where feasible).
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, expansion tank, fan clutch/electric fan operation, bleeding procedures.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank service, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, oxygen sensors, emissions components.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch assembly, gearbox disassembly and assembly, shift linkage, gear oil specifications and replacement.
Transmission Automatic:
Transmission fluid checks and changes, torque converter service, troubleshooting, valve body operation (basic).
Drivetrain And Axles:
Driveshaft, universal joints, CV joints, differential service, rear axle components.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, bushings, coil springs, anti-roll bars, wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column, fluid specifications.
Brakes:
Brake system components (discs, pads, calipers), hydraulic system, master cylinder, ABS system operation and troubleshooting, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting system.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, exterior trim, glass replacement, structural components.
HVAC System:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, refrigerant handling (basic), blower motor, control panels.
Body Electronics:
Power windows, power locks, mirrors, central locking system, alarm system (basic), instrument cluster.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, coolant checks and changes, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid service, differential fluid service, tire rotation and pressure checks.
Troubleshooting Guides:
System-specific troubleshooting flowcharts and diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, installation, and adjustment for most vehicle systems.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Guidance on using diagnostic tools (like OBD-II scanners where applicable for the era), interpreting data, and performing system tests.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, crucial for electrical troubleshooting and repair.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners and components to ensure proper assembly and prevent damage.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive and detailed, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, and advanced electrical diagnostics.
Diagrams Illustrations:
Includes numerous diagrams, illustrations, and exploded views to aid in understanding complex procedures and component identification.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (or as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service system if equipped).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000 miles (depending on spark plug type - standard vs. platinum/iridium).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 or equivalent recommended, check owner's manual for exact specification).
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 specification) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (low viscosity recommended for ABS systems).
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or ZF-4HP22 / 5HP18 transmission fluid (check specific model, E36 often used specific ATF or hydraulic fluid).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Synthetic Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon, check specific transmission type for accurate fluid).
Common Wear Items:
Vanos (Variable Valve Timing) system issues (solenoid and seal failures), fuel pump, water pump, thermostat housing (plastic), radiator, expansion tank, oil pan gasket leaks, subframe bushings, rear shock mounts, window regulators, headlight leveling motors.
Cooling System Failures:
The plastic coolant expansion tank and radiator are prone to cracking with age, leading to leaks. The water pump impeller can also degrade.
Subframe Mounting:
The rear subframe mounting points on the chassis can crack or the bushings can degrade, affecting handling and alignment.
