🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Chassis Code:

E36

Model Year:

1998

Engine Codes Covered:

M44B19, M52B20, M52B25, M52B28

Transmission Codes Covered:

Getrag 260/5, Getrag 260/6, ZF 5HP18, ZF 5HP30

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Premium compact executive sedan/coupe/convertible

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, professional mechanics, owners seeking in-depth maintenance knowledge

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Alfa Romeo 155

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, driver-focused experience

Build Quality:

Typical BMW high-quality construction and materials

Engine Options:

Range of capable inline-four and inline-six engines

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive factory service and repair

Secondary Coverage:

Diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting, wiring diagrams, specifications

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 2000+ pages (multi-volume set typically)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF) - Searchable, printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system

Engine Management:

Fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, emissions control, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), DME (Digital Motor Electronics)

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox disassembly and assembly, gear shift mechanism, driveshafts

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission (e.g., 5HP18, 5HP30) diagnosis, repair, valve body, torque converter, control unit

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, power steering system, steering rack

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake fluid service

Electrical System:

12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, accessories, fuses, relays

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, chassis repair, rust prevention

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant service

Safety Systems:

Airbag system diagnosis and service, seat belt mechanisms

Information And Entertainment:

Radio system, speakers, antenna, warning indicators

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and flushes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues

Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) procedures, using diagnostic tools, interpreting sensor data

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical schematics for all systems, component identification

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for critical fasteners throughout the vehicle

Depth:

Professional level, suitable for dealership technicians and experienced DIYers

Detail Level:

Highly detailed, including internal component repairs and complex electrical diagnostics

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Full text searchable

Printability:

Printable by section or entire manual

Image Resolution:

High resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations

Binding:

N/A (Digital Product)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Product)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options Available For 1998:

318i (M44B19), 320i (M52B20 - primarily outside North America), 323i (M52B25), 328i (M52B28)

318I Horsepower:

138 hp @ 6000 rpm

318I Torque:

144 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm

328I Horsepower:

190 hp @ 5300 rpm

328I Torque:

206 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm

Fuel Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) - Bosch Motronic

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 RON or higher recommended)

Dme Control Unit:

Bosch Motronic M5.2 (typically for M52 engines)

🔧 Transmission

318I Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/5)

328I Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/6)

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (ZF 5HP18 for M50/M52, ZF 5HP30 for M52TU/later models, but 4-speed was common for E36 328i)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single-plate dry clutch

Automatic Transmission Features:

Sport mode, sometimes Steptronic on later models (though less common on '98 E36)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent GL-4/GL-5 gear oil, consult manual for exact spec)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF Dexron III (or equivalent) - crucial for proper operation

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Sedan (4-door), Coupe (2-door), Convertible (2-door), Sport Wagon (Touring - not in all markets)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 106.0 inches (2692 mm)

Length:

Approx. 174.5 - 177.8 inches (4432 - 4516 mm) depending on body style

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3100 - 3400 lbs (1406 - 1542 kg) depending on model and equipment

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 13.6 cu ft (Sedan)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Generally good for its era, but specific 1998 ratings may vary by test methodology and year availability. Refer to NHTSA archives.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Asc Or Dsc:

Optional/Standard ASC (Automatic Stability Control) or DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) on some models

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners

Rollover Protection:

Active rollover protection system for convertible models

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory BMW Professional or Business CD/Cassette systems. Options for dealer-installed CD changers.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system (often bulky CRT screen in dash)

Traction Control:

ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) available on some models.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Cellular Integration:

Optional factory cellular phone preparation with handset.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or as indicated by the Oil Service Indicator (SI) system.

Spark Plug Replacement:

M44: Approx. 30,000 miles. M52: Approx. 60,000 miles (depending on plug type used).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-45,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-98 specification. Viscosity typically 0W-40, 5W-30, or 5W-40 depending on climate and exact specification. Refer to manual for precision.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.5 - 6.5 liters (5.8 - 6.9 US quarts) depending on engine and oil filter.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based, or equivalent)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (or DOT 4 LV for newer systems, but DOT 4 is common for E36)

Common E36 Issues:

Cooling system (plastic expansion tank, water pump, thermostat housing), VANOS system (on M52 engines), rear subframe mounting points, fuel pump failure, window regulator failure, ignition coil failure, oil pan gasket leaks.

Preventative Maintenance Tips:

Regularly inspect and replace cooling system components, check subframe mounts for cracks, maintain VANOS system if applicable, use correct fluids.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, known for performance, engineering, and 'Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan.

E36 Introduction:

Introduced in 1990 (as 1991 model year in North America), replacing the E30. Represented a significant step forward in design, technology, and refinement.

E36 Facelift:

Minor facelift in 1996/1997 included updated bumpers, headlights, and interior trim, making the 1998 model a later production variant.

E36 Production Years:

1990-2000

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (e.g., Dingolfing, Munich), Austria (Magna Steyr), South Africa, Mexico, Thailand

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The E36 3-Series (particularly the 325i/328i) was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10 Best' list during its production run, lauded for its handling and performance.

Iconic Status:

Considered a modern classic and benchmark for sports sedan handling by automotive journalists and enthusiasts.