🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

128i Convertible

Year:

2011

Chassis Code:

E88

Market:

USA

Identifier:

BMW 128i Convertible (E88) 2011 Owner's Manual with iDrive

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2011 BMW 1 Series (E88) Convertible represented BMW's entry-level premium compact convertible, targeting younger buyers or those seeking a more affordable, sporty convertible experience from the brand. It competed with vehicles like the Audi A3 Cabriolet, Volkswagen Eos, and the Ford Mustang Convertible in certain segments.

Competitive Analysis:

Offered rear-wheel drive dynamics and a more driver-focused interior compared to some front-wheel-drive competitors. The 128i provided a balance of performance and efficiency, slotting below the more powerful (and often more expensive) 135i model.

Key Features:

Compact rear-wheel-drive platform, naturally aspirated inline-six engine, convertible soft-top, iDrive infotainment system, premium interior materials, sporty handling characteristics.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems (iDrive), Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving Operation, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only), Cleaning, Maintenance, Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories, Service Information, Maintenance Schedules.

Page Count:

Approximately 300-400 pages (estimated based on typical BMW owner's manuals of this era and scope).

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, charging system, starting system, braking system, steering system, suspension system, climate control, lighting, power accessories, infotainment (iDrive), safety restraint systems, convertible top operation, security systems.

Procedures Included:

Routine checks (oil level, coolant, tire pressure), fluid top-offs, jump starting, tire changes, bulb replacement, fuse identification and replacement, basic iDrive operation, convertible top operation, seat adjustment and restraint usage, cleaning and care, recommended maintenance schedules, basic troubleshooting of common warning lights.

Technical Depth:

Covers essential owner-level maintenance, operation, and basic troubleshooting. Does not include detailed repair procedures, diagnostic codes, or advanced electrical schematics typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

Digital, factory-quality resolution, suitable for on-screen viewing and printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

Compatibility:

Requires PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader) and compatible with any device capable of reading PDF files (computers, tablets, smartphones).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder

Engine Code:

N52B30

Displacement:

2,996 cc (3.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

85.0 mm x 88.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.7:1

Horsepower:

230 hp @ 6,500 rpm

Torque:

200 lb-ft @ 2,750 rpm

Fuel Induction:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 US quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change (refer to manual for exact specification).

Engine Oil Spec:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-01 FE (LL-01 FE) approved 5W-30 or 0W-30 synthetic oil.

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 7.9 US quarts (7.5 Liters) (refer to manual for exact specification).

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 formulation) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with silicate inhibitors.

Air Filter Part Number:

Typical part numbers include 13717534299, but always verify for specific VIN.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission with Paddle Shifters

Steptronic Features:

Allows manual gear selection via gear selector lever or steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters; includes sport and manual modes.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Refer to owner's manual for specific fluid type and capacity, often a specialized synthetic manual transmission fluid.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF LT-5 (or equivalent Pentosin ATF1 or ZF Lifeguardfluid8).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

161.1 inches (4,092 mm)

Width:

68.3 inches (1,735 mm)

Height:

54.5 inches (1,384 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.7 inches (2,657 mm)

Front Track:

59.0 inches (1,500 mm)

Rear Track:

59.6 inches (1,515 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 4.5 inches (114 mm) (unladen).

Wheel Size:

Standard: 17 x 7.5 inch alloy wheels. Optional: 18 inch alloy wheels.

Tire Size Standard:

Front: 205/50R17; Rear: 225/45R17

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Center Bore:

72.5 mm

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,571 lbs (1,620 kg) for manual transmission; Approx. 3,616 lbs (1,640 kg) for automatic transmission.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4,553 lbs (2,065 kg) (refer to vehicle placard).

Towing Capacity:

Not Recommended / Not Specified by Manufacturer.

Cargo Volume Trunk:

9.5 cubic feet (269 liters) with top up; 7.7 cubic feet (218 liters) with top down.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

5-Star (for convertible models of this era in general, but specific 2011 128i Convertible ratings may vary by test year and configuration).

IIHS Ratings:

Good in front and side crash tests for the 1 Series Coupe/Convertible. Roof strength ratings may be lower than coupes. (Refer to specific IIHS reports for definitive ratings).

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, rollover protection system (pop-up roll bars behind rear headrests).

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters, active head restraints.

Convertible Top Safety:

Integrated rollover protection system with automatically deploying roll bars.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Traction Control:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC).

Braking System:

Front: Ventilated discs (approx. 312mm diameter); Rear: Solid discs (approx. 300mm diameter).

Driver Assistance Options:

Bi-Xenon Adaptive Headlights (optional), Parking Distance Control (PDC) (optional).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

iDrive System (CCC or CIC generation depending on specific build date and options). Features include Radio, CD/MP3 player, optional Satellite Radio, optional Navigation System, and Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Display Type:

Central Information Display (CID) integrated into the dashboard, typically 7-inch or 8.8-inch for navigation-equipped models.

Audio System:

Standard Hi-Fi Sound System. Optional: Harman Kardon Surround Sound System.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise Control, Rain-sensing Wipers, Automatic Headlights.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth hands-free calling, USB audio interface (optional), AUX input.

Convenience Features:

Keyless ignition (push-button start), power-adjustable front seats with memory (optional), heated front seats (optional), automatic climate control, convertible top operation via key fob (optional).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system monitors oil life, typically ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 miles (16,000 to 24,000 km) or 12-24 months, whichever comes first. Refer to the CBS display in the vehicle or the owner's manual.

Major Service Intervals:

Inspect brakes, suspension, exhaust, and other components at roughly 30,000-60,000 mile intervals. Specific checks for spark plugs, drive belts, and cabin air filters are also outlined.

Brake Fluid:

BMW DOT 4 (or equivalent low-viscosity DOT 4, such as BMW Essential Brake Fluid).

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Power Steering Fluid (typically CHF 11S or a Pentosin equivalent for hydraulic power steering systems of this era, but some later models used ATF. Verify in manual).

Windshield Washer Fluid:

BMW Windshield Washer Fluid Concentrate (Summer or Winter formulation) or a reputable washer fluid.

Common Issues:

Coolant expansion tank cracking, oil filter housing gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks (N52 engine), water pump failure (electric on later N52 variants), VANOS solenoid issues, convertible top hydraulic system issues (leaks, slow operation), ignition coil failures, fuel pump issues.

Part Numbers Referenced:

The manual provides guidance on locating part numbers for various components for owner-level replacement, such as air filters, cabin filters, and fuses. Specific OE part numbers are not always listed directly but cross-referencing based on the vehicle's VIN is recommended.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) has a long-standing reputation for producing sporty, driver-focused vehicles with excellent engineering and performance. Founded in 1916, BMW's heritage is deeply rooted in aviation engines, motorcycles, and a strong lineage of luxury sedans and sports cars.

Model Evolution:

The 1 Series (E81/E82/E87/E88) was introduced globally in 2004 as BMW's smallest platform. The E88 Convertible variant, launched in 2008, offered a compact, premium drop-top experience, based on the coupe chassis but with a folding soft-top roof. The 128i was positioned as the entry-level engine option for the convertible.

Production Years:

2008-2013 (E88 generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Leipzig, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The 1 Series platform in general received accolades for its driving dynamics and premium feel for its segment. Specific awards for the 2011 128i Convertible are less common in broad automotive publications, but its segment positioning and BMW's brand reputation were key selling points.