🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Sub Model:

328i

Production Years Covered:

1992-1998

Chassis Code:

E36

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW 3 Series (E36) represented a significant evolution in BMW's compact executive sedan segment, known for its blend of performance, luxury, and driving dynamics.

Competitors:

Competed with the Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), and Lexus ES.

Design Philosophy:

The E36 chassis continued BMW's focus on rear-wheel drive, balanced weight distribution, and driver-centric ergonomics.

Powertrain Emphasis:

The 328i specifically offered a strong inline-six engine, providing a balance of power and refinement.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

BMW 328i

Secondary Coverage:

BMW 328 (model variations)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Workshop Repair and Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Exhaust

Chassis:

Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels, Tires

Electrical:

Ignition, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio, Power Accessories, ECU

Body:

Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, HVAC

Maintenance:

Scheduled service, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, Fault finding, Symptom analysis

Repair:

Component removal, Installation, Reassembly, Adjustments

Specifications:

Torque values, Clearances, Tolerances, Wiring diagrams

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics

Detail Level:

Detailed step-by-step instructions with diagrams and illustrations

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, searchable text and clear images

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M52B28

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2793 cc)

Horsepower:

190 hp @ 5300 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

205 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 Liters (8.9 US Quarts)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (Steptronic available later in E36 lifecycle, but typically 4-speed for 328i)

Rear Axle Ratio:

Typically 3.07:1 for manual, 3.46:1 for automatic (varies)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent GL-4/GL-5 synthetic)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Sedan (E36/328i), Coupe (E36/328is), Convertible (E36/328iC)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 107.4 inches (2728 mm)

Length:

Approx. 174.5 inches (4432 mm) for Sedan

Width:

Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

Approx. 54.7 inches (1390 mm) for Sedan

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3200-3400 lbs (1450-1540 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by body style and configuration

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm

Standard Wheel Size:

15 or 16 inch alloy (e.g., Style 10, Style 18)

Standard Tire Size:

205/60R15, 225/50R16 (varies by trim and options)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Frontal crash ratings available; side-impact and rollover data may vary by test year and specific model.

Braking System:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard.

Traction Control:

Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) available.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Stock BMW Bavaria C or Professional CD/RDS radios with optional premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon).

Navigation:

Optional BMW Business or Professional navigation systems available on later models.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control).

Telematics:

Early cellular phone integration or BMW Assist (on later models) might be present as options.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, based on BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) or manufacturer recommendation.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 100,000 miles (check specific recommendation for iridium/platinum plugs).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-3 years or as recommended by BMW for G48 coolant.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change (e.g., BMW High Performance SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW ATF Dexron III (or equivalent)

Cooling System Failures:

Plastic expansion tanks, water pumps, and thermostat housings are prone to cracking or leaking.

Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:

Common due to age and material degradation, often referred to as 'valley pan' or 'crankshaft seal' leaks.

Window Regulator Failure:

Plastic components in the window regulator mechanism are known to fail.

Subframe Mounts:

Rear subframe mounting points can fatigue and crack the chassis, a critical structural issue.

Vanos System:

Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) system can develop issues with seals or the solenoid, affecting performance and idle.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused, high-performance luxury vehicles.

E36 Introduction:

The E36 generation of the 3 Series debuted in 1990 (as a 1991 model in Europe) and was produced until 1999 in most markets. The 328i model replaced the 325i as the higher-performance six-cylinder option in the US market starting in 1996.

328I Positioning:

The 328i (M52B28 engine) represented a significant power upgrade over the earlier M50B25 (325i) engines, offering improved torque and responsiveness.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary production was in Munich, Germany, with additional assembly in other global locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver:

Car and Driver often ranked the 3 Series (including variants like the 328i) on its 'Ten Best Cars' list during its production run.

Automotive Journalism:

Praised by automotive journalists for its exceptional handling, balanced chassis, and refined inline-six engines.

Owner Satisfaction:

Generally high owner satisfaction for driving experience, though maintenance can be costly.