Vehicle Class:
Compact Executive Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops seeking in-depth technical information for the E93 generation convertible.
Competitors:
Audi A4 Cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz CLK Convertible, Lexus IS Convertible.
Vehicle Selling Points:
Retractable hardtop, rear-wheel drive dynamics, premium interior, advanced engine options (naturally aspirated and twin-turbo).
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, essential for maintaining the complex systems of this luxury convertible.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing systems, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emission control, engine sensors (DME - Digital Motor Electronics), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox internal components, shifting mechanisms, overhaul procedures.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission assembly, valve body, torque converter, hydraulic control, electronic control unit (TCU - Transmission Control Unit), fluid specifications and changes.
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, axles, wheel bearings, limited-slip differential (if applicable).
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, sway bar), rear suspension (multi-link, subframe), shock absorbers, springs, bushings.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic), steering rack, steering column, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake discs, pads, calipers, parking brake, bleeding procedures, wear limits.
Electrical System Basic:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting system.
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, convertible top mechanism, bumpers, glass replacement.
Body Interior:
Seats, dashboard, trim panels, airbags, seat belts, interior lighting.
Convertible Top:
Hydraulic pump, actuators, motors, sensors, control module, troubleshooting and repair of the retractable hardtop mechanism.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, air conditioning, heating, blower motor, refrigerant recharge, climate control module.
Infotainment And Electronics:
iDrive system (CCC/CIC), radio, navigation, speakers, telematics, central information display (CID).
Preventive Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid level checks, filter replacements, belt inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair across all covered systems.
Overhaul Instructions:
Detailed procedures for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions.
Diagnostic Testing:
Procedures for using diagnostic tools, testing electrical circuits, and verifying component operation.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized BMW tools required for specific repairs.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds).
Diagnostic Capability:
Detailed diagnostic information including wiring diagrams, sensor data interpretation, and troubleshooting trees.
Transmission Option 1:
6-speed Manual Transmission (GS6-37BZ)
Transmission Option 2:
6-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (GA6HP19Z)
Automatic Features:
Adaptive Shift Control (ASC), Sport Mode, Manual Shift Mode (via paddle shifters or gear selector).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-3 (Pentosin FFL-3 or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-5 (Pentosin ATF 1 or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 1.7 - 1.9 Liters
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 Liters (total capacity, pan fill approx. 4.5 Liters)
NHTSA Overall:
Not explicitly rated for convertible variants in this generation by NHTSA, but based on coupe variants, generally good frontal and side impact performance.
Standard Active Safety:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist.
Standard Passive Safety:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, rollover protection system (automatically deploying hoops), front seat belt pretensioners, advanced crumple zones.
Convertible Specific Safety:
Reinforced A-pillars and windshield frame, integrated rollover protection system (steel hoops deploying from behind rear headrests).
Infotainment System:
BMW iDrive (CCC or CIC depending on production date and options), typically featuring a 7-inch or 8.8-inch central display.
Audio Options:
Standard Hi-Fi system, optional Logic7 premium audio system.
Navigation:
Optional BMW Professional Navigation system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Park Distance Control (PDC), Adaptive Headlights (optional), Rain Sensor, Cruise Control.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth phone integration, USB audio interface (later models), SiriusXM Satellite Radio ready.
Keyless Entry:
Comfort Access System (keyless entry and start) available on higher trims/optional.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil quality, as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Engine Air Filter:
Replace every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or as indicated by CBS.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually, as indicated by CBS.
Spark Plugs N52:
Replace at 100,000 miles (original plugs), or sooner based on performance and condition.
Spark Plugs N54:
Replace at 45,000 - 60,000 miles (due to direct injection and turbocharging).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Coolant Flush:
First replacement at 5 years or 100,000 miles, then every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles thereafter (BMW Blue coolant).
Engine Oil Spec:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-01 FE (LL-01 FE) approved synthetic oil, typically 0W-30 or 5W-30.
Engine Oil Capacity N52:
Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Engine Oil Capacity N54:
Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant
Common Issues N54:
High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, vacuum leaks, injector issues, ignition coil failures, turbo wastegate rattle.
Common Issues N52:
Valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, eccentric shaft sensor failure, VANOS solenoid issues.
Convertible Top Issues:
Hydraulic leaks in the top system, pump failure, sensor malfunctions, issues with the trunk lid mechanism.
Electrical Issues:
Water ingress in the trunk (especially for convertibles), prone to various electrical gremlins if not properly diagnosed.