🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

135i

Year:

2011

Chassis Code:

E82 (Coupe), E88 (Convertible)

Engine Code:

N54B30

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2011 BMW 135i was positioned as a compact, rear-wheel-drive performance coupe and convertible, offering a potent turbocharged engine and BMW's renowned driving dynamics in a smaller, more accessible package than the 3-series.

Competitors:

Primary competitors included the Audi A3, Infiniti G37 Coupe/Convertible, and Cadillac CTS Coupe. It competed by offering a more driver-focused experience and a significantly more powerful engine for its segment.

Performance Focus:

The hallmark of the 135i is its N54 twin-turbocharged 3.0L inline-six engine, delivering strong acceleration and a wide powerband.

Handling:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, RWD layout, and engaging handling characteristics, providing a classic BMW driving feel.

Design:

Offered in coupe (E82) and convertible (E88) body styles, featuring BMW's distinctive styling cues of the era.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive repair and service for the 2011 BMW 135i

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (Software-based, providing access to thousands of pages of technical data)

Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

3.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-6 (N54B30): Engine mechanical, cooling, lubrication, fuel injection, ignition, emissions, turbocharger system, ECU diagnostics.

Transmission:

6-speed Manual (GS6-37BZ) and 6-speed Automatic (GA6HP19Z): Clutch, gearbox, torque converter, transmission control, fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD): Driveshaft, differential, axles, CV joints.

Brakes:

Front and Rear Disc Brakes: Hydraulic system, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pad/rotor replacement, bleeding procedures.

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, Rear multi-link: Springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.

Steering:

Hydraulic power steering: Steering rack, pump, hoses, troubleshooting.

Electrical System:

12V system, alternator, battery, starter, lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, modules (CAS, DME, FRM, JBE).

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, seats, airbags, climate control system (HVAC), interior trim, sound system.

Diagnostic Systems:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), fault codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, reset procedures.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, cabin filter replacement, brake fluid flush.

Major Repairs:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, turbocharger replacement, clutch replacement, suspension component replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and uncommon issues, electrical fault finding, engine performance problems.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing virtually all mechanical and electrical components.

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications, fluid capacities, clearances, wear limits.

Depth:

Extremely high: Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic trees and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Searchable digital format for quick access to information, potentially with interactive diagrams and troubleshooting flowcharts.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital software, however, diagrams and text are designed for clarity and accuracy)

Binding:

N/A (Digital software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

3.0L Twin-Turbocharged Inline-6

Engine Code:

N54B30

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 89.6 mm

Displacement:

2979 cc (3.0 Liters)

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Valve Train:

DOHC, 24 valves, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

Horsepower:

300 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque:

300 lb-ft @ 1300-5000 rpm (with overboost)

Redline:

7000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Direct Injection (High-Pressure Fuel Pump, Injectors)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)

Type:

Parallel Twin-Turbochargers

Boost Pressure:

Approximately 10-12 psi (stock)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed Manual Transmission (GS6-37BZ)

Type:

6-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (GA6HP19Z)

Manual Gear Ratios:

1st: 4.11, 2nd: 2.32, 3rd: 1.54, 4th: 1.18, 5th: 1.00, 6th: 0.85, Reverse: 3.55

Automatic Features:

Steptronic manual shifting mode, Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC), electronic shift lock.

Manual Fluid Spec:

BMW MTF LT-3 (or equivalent GL-4 SAE 75W-80 synthetic)

Automatic Fluid Spec:

ATF LT-5 (or equivalent Esso/Exxon JWS 3309 / Toyota Type T-IV)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

104.7 inches (2659 mm)

Length:

Coupe: 168.7 inches (4285 mm); Convertible: 169.0 inches (4293 mm)

Width:

Coupe: 69.5 inches (1765 mm); Convertible: 69.5 inches (1765 mm)

Height:

Coupe: 54.6 inches (1387 mm); Convertible: 54.7 inches (1390 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 4.7 inches (119 mm)

Trunk Volume:

Coupe: 11.1 cu ft (314 L); Convertible: 8.5 cu ft (240 L) (with top up)

Curb Weight:

Coupe: ~3400-3500 lbs (1542-1588 kg); Convertible: ~3700-3900 lbs (1678-1769 kg) (varies by options)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approximately 4450-4650 lbs (2018-2109 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Likely received 4 or 5-star ratings in various categories from NHTSA for its model year (specific year data may vary, but generally strong for BMW).

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with integrated ABS, Traction Control (ASC+T), Cornering Brake Control (CBC).

Braking Assist:

Brake Assist (BA), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC).

Tire Pressure Monitoring:

Yes (RPA - Reifen Pannen Anzeige)

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (curtain airbags).

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front belt tensioners and force limiters.

Body Structure:

High-strength steel construction, reinforced A-pillars and side impact protection.

Convertible Rollover Protection:

Active rollover protection system (pop-up roll bars behind rear headrests).

💡 Technology Features

System:

BMW iDrive system (CCC or CIC professional navigation depending on options), with 6.5-inch or 8.8-inch central display.

Audio:

Standard BMW Professional Radio with CD player, optional Harman Kardon sound system.

Connectivity:

Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling and audio streaming (BMW Assist/ConnectedDrive features available).

Parking Assistance:

Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear.

Lighting:

Optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights.

Climate Control:

Standard automatic climate control; optional heated front seats, power convertible top.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage (as per BMW recommendations).

Spark Plugs:

Approximately 60,000 miles for the N54 engine.

Air Filter:

Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.

Cabin Filter:

Every 15,000-20,000 miles or annually.

Engine Oil:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 certified synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-40.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or an equivalent power steering fluid meeting BMW requirements.

N54 Engine Common Issues:

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, PCV valve issues, turbocharger wastegate rattle, injector issues, ignition coil and spark plug failures, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil filter housing).

Electrical Common Issues:

Faulty window regulators, FRM (Footwell Module) issues, battery drain problems.

Chassis Common Issues:

Worn control arm bushings, steering rack leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, is a German manufacturer renowned for luxury and performance vehicles, with a long history in motorsport and engineering excellence.

1 Series Introduction:

The 1 Series was introduced in 2004 as BMW's entry-level premium compact car, replacing the 3 Series Compact. The E8x generation (2004-2013) defined this segment for BMW.

135I Introduction:

The 135i variant, featuring the powerful N54 engine, was launched as part of the E82 Coupe and E88 Convertible lineup in late 2007/early 2008, becoming a cult favorite for its performance value.

2011 Model Year:

The 2011 model year represents a mid-cycle iteration of the E82/E88 generation, largely carrying over the successful N54 powertrain and chassis.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily produced at BMW's plant in Leipzig, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Performance Awards:

While specific awards for the 2011 model year might be elusive, the N54 engine itself received considerable acclaim and was often praised by automotive journalists for its power and tunability, contributing to the 135i's reputation as a performance bargain.

Segment Awards:

The 1 Series as a platform was recognized for offering a more engaging driving experience compared to its competitors, particularly in its performance-oriented trims like the 135i.