Segment:
Compact Executive Sports Coupe/Convertible/Sedan
Positioning:
The 4-Series is BMW's premium offering in the compact sporty car segment, known for its driving dynamics, premium interior, and advanced technology.
Primary Competitors:
Audi A5, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe/Cabriolet/Sedan, Lexus RC, Infiniti Q60.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasizes a driver-centric cockpit, sporty proportions, and elegant lines characteristic of BMW's design language.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and engaging driving experience.
Powertrain Options:
A range of powerful and efficient turbocharged inline-four and inline-six engines.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, component replacement for all gasoline and diesel variants.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission servicing, repair, clutch replacement, fluid changes, gearbox diagnostics.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) or rear-wheel drive (RWD) systems, driveshafts, differential, all-wheel drive (xDrive) system.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, pad and rotor replacement, caliper repair, ABS and DSC system troubleshooting, brake fluid specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack repair, tie rod ends, steering column components.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, component testing, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor diagnostics.
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnostics, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, condenser, blower motor).
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood and trunk latches, chassis repair.
Comfort And Convenience:
Power windows, mirrors, seats, sunroof, keyless entry, central locking systems.
Infotainment And Navigation:
iDrive system diagnostics, audio system troubleshooting, navigation system components.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed service intervals, oil change procedures, filter replacements, spark plug intervals.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures, identification of common faults, troubleshooting flowcharts.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Utilizing BMW's diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA), reading and clearing fault codes, data stream analysis.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications, measurement data, alignment angles, critical clearances.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and detailed wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth Of Coverage:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Capability:
Covers advanced diagnostic procedures requiring specialized tools and knowledge.
Engine Code Examples:
N20 (428i), N55 (435i), N47 (Diesel variants like 420d).
428I Engine:
2.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-4
428I Horsepower:
241 hp @ 5000-6500 rpm
428I Torque:
255 lb-ft @ 1250-4800 rpm
435I Engine:
3.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-6
435I Horsepower:
300 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm
435I Torque:
300 lb-ft @ 1300-4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Direct Injection (High-Pressure)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended)
Transmission Type Standard 428I:
8-Speed Steptronic Automatic
Transmission Type Standard 435I:
6-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Optional 428I:
6-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Optional 435I:
8-Speed Steptronic Automatic
Drivetrain Options:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Automatic Features:
Sport Mode, Manual Shift Mode (via paddle shifters or gear selector)
Length F32 F33 F36:
Approx. 182.5 inches (4638 mm)
Width F32 F33 F36:
Approx. 71.3 inches (1811 mm)
Height F32:
Approx. 54.8 inches (1392 mm)
Height F33:
Approx. 54.1 inches (1374 mm)
Height F36:
Approx. 56.1 inches (1426 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 110.6 inches (2810 mm)
Cargo Volume F32 Trunk:
Approx. 15.1 cubic feet (428 liters)
Cargo Volume F36 Trunk:
Approx. 16.0 cubic feet (450 liters)
Curb Weight Approx 428I:
Starting around 3,500 lbs (1588 kg)
Curb Weight Approx 435I:
Starting around 3,700 lbs (1678 kg)
NHTSA Rating Example:
Likely received high ratings in frontal, side, and rollover crash tests (specific to body style and configuration).
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS).
Braking Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist.
Driver Assistance Options:
Optional: Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Parking Assistant.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, knee airbags, possibly rear side-impact airbags.
Structure:
Advanced high-strength steel construction, crumple zones.
Infotainment System:
BMW iDrive system (likely CIC or NBT Professional Navigation system).
Display:
Central display screen, typically 6.5, 8.8, or 10.2 inches depending on options.
Audio Options:
Standard BMW Professional Radio, optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.
Standard Driver Aids:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Hill Start Assist.
Optional Driver Aids:
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Head-Up Display (HUD), Active Park Assist, Surround View camera system.
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth connectivity, USB audio interface, optional enhanced smartphone connectivity (e.g., Apple CarPlay support often added via software update or specific packages).
Telematics:
BMW ConnectedDrive services (e.g., Concierge Service, Remote Services).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically based on Condition Based Service (CBS), often around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.
Brake Fluid Interval:
Recommended every 2 years.
Spark Plug Interval Gasoline:
Around 60,000 miles for many gasoline engines (e.g., N20, N55).
Engine Oil Spec 428I 435I:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil, typically 0W-30 or 5W-30.
Coolant Spec:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Specific ZF Lifeguard fluid (e.g., ZF 8HP transmission fluid) - critical for longevity.
Common Issues F32 F33 F36:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan, VANOS solenoid issues, water pump failures, ignition coil failures, PCV valve issues, electric steering rack problems (less common but possible).
Diesel Specific Issues:
DPF regeneration issues, EGR valve problems, glow plug failures.
Brand Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing sporty, engaging, and well-engineered vehicles, particularly in the premium segment.
Predecessor:
The 4-Series effectively replaced the coupe, convertible, and Gran Coupe variants of the previous 3-Series (E92/E93/E90).
Generation F32 F33 F36:
This generation marked BMW's strategic decision to create a distinct model line for its sporty mid-size offerings, separating them from the 3-Series sedan.
Production Years F32 F33 F36:
2013-2020 (for the F32/F33/F36 platform)
