🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Engine Variants Covered:

318i, 323i, 325i, 328i, M3

Model Years Covered:

1992-1998

Chassis Code Generation:

E36

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Premium compact executive sedan/coupe, known for sporty driving dynamics and build quality.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Acura Integra (sportier trims)

E36 Generation Hallmarks:

Iconic 'Hofmeister kink' rear window design, multi-link rear suspension, driver-focused cockpit, refined inline-six engines.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners and technicians with the knowledge to maintain, diagnose, and repair the E36 3 Series effectively, saving time and money.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage Areas:

Mechanical, Electrical, Bodywork, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typically 500+ pages for a complete workshop manual)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, fuel injection (DME), ignition, cooling, exhaust, lubrication, intake, emissions control

Transmission Drivetrain Systems:

Manual transmission, automatic transmission (Steptronic/Tiptronic where applicable), clutch, driveshafts, differentials, axles

Suspension Steering Systems:

Front suspension, rear suspension, steering gear, power steering, wheel alignment

Brake Systems:

Front brakes (discs, calipers, pads), rear brakes (discs, calipers, pads), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, warning indicators, body electronics, power accessories, infotainment wiring, ECU diagnostics

Bodywork Chassis Systems:

Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, bumpers, interior trim, chassis structure, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid change, belt inspection/replacement, air filter replacement, battery checks

Repair Procedures:

Engine component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, wiring diagrams for electrical fault finding

Technical Specifications Data:

Torque specifications for critical fasteners, fluid capacities and types, electrical specifications (voltages, resistances), dimensional data

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance, in-depth diagnostics, component-level repair, and full system overhauls

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Text-searchable (allows for quick finding of specific information)

Print Quality:

High-resolution for clear diagrams, schematics, and text reproduction

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 318I:

M43B18 (1.8L), M44B19 (1.9L)

Horsepower 318I:

113-118 hp (depending on M43/M44 variant)

Torque 318I:

170-180 Nm (125-133 lb-ft)

Engine Code 323I:

M52B25 (2.5L)

Horsepower 323I:

170 hp

Torque 323I:

245 Nm (181 lb-ft)

Engine Code 325I:

M50B25 (2.5L - Vanos), M52B25 (2.5L - Vanos)

Horsepower 325I:

189-192 hp

Torque 325I:

245-250 Nm (181-184 lb-ft)

Engine Code 328I:

M52B28 (2.8L)

Horsepower 328I:

190-193 hp

Torque 328I:

280 Nm (206 lb-ft)

Engine Code M3:

S50B30 (3.0L - US/Euro), S52B32 (3.2L - US)

Horsepower M3:

240 hp (US S52B32) to 321 hp (Euro S50B30)

Torque M3:

305 Nm (225 lb-ft) (US S52B32) to 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) (Euro S50B30)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Port Injection

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (CoP) for M52/S50/S52, or distributor for M43/early M50

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Getrag manual transmission (G240, G260, S5D variations)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed ZF automatic transmission (e.g., 4HP22, 5HP18 for select models)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated

📐 Dimensions

Length Coupe:

Approx. 4433 mm (174.5 in)

Length Sedan:

Approx. 4433 mm (174.5 in)

Length Convertible:

Approx. 4433 mm (174.5 in)

Length Touring:

Approx. 4465 mm (175.8 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Wheel Offset:

ET47

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 1300-1550 kg (2866-3417 lbs) depending on body style and engine

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating Driver Front Impact:

4/5 Stars (typical for the era, varies by specific test and year)

IIHS Rating Offset Frontal:

Good (typical for the era)

Standard Safety Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Traction Control (ASC/ASC+T on some models)

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard; side airbags optional on later models

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic radio/cassette or optional CD player; earlier models may have analogue displays, later ones introduction of digital climate control and basic OBC (On-Board Computer).

Driver Assistance Features:

Traction Control (ASC/ASC+T) available on many models; cruise control optional.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; some models offer basic remote keyless entry and alarm systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change Interval:

Typically 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific variant and oil type).

Oil Filter Replacement:

Replace with oil change. Example Part Numbers: Mann-Filter W914/2, Mahle OC261/3.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Example Part Numbers: Mann-Filter C35182, Mahle LX62.

Coolant Replacement:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km). Use BMW Blue coolant (G48) or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Replacement:

Every 2 years. Use DOT 4 brake fluid.

Engine Oil Spec:

API SJ, ACEA A3/B3 or A3/B4, SAE 5W-30, 5W-40 or 10W-40 depending on climate and model. Refer to owner's manual or manual for specific engine.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent, SAE 75W-80 or 75W-90 GL-4. Consult manual for specific gearbox.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ZF TE-ML 11B or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III for some early units). Refer to manual for precise specification.

Common Issues:

Cooling system (plastic expansion tank, water pump failure, thermostat), VANOS system (noise, performance degradation), VANOS seals, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), subframe bushings, door panel vapor barrier seal failure, ABS/ASC sensor failures, heater control valve (HVAC).

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

Renowned for engineering excellence, performance, and driver involvement since its founding in 1916.

E36 Introduction:

Launched in 1990/1991, replacing the E30 3 Series. Marked a significant evolution in chassis design, technology, and refinement.

E36 Updates:

Facelift in 1995/1996 brought updated bumpers, headlights, interior trim, and engine revisions (e.g., M52 engines).

Production Period:

1990-2000 (globally, with European markets receiving earlier and later models than North America)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

E36 3 Series models, particularly the 325i and M3, were frequent recipients of Car and Driver's 10Best list during their production run.

Performance Reviews:

Consistently praised for handling, steering feedback, chassis balance, and powerful inline-six engines.