🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3-Series

Chassis Codes:

F30 (Sedan), F31 (Touring/Wagon), F34 (Gran Turismo), F35 (Long Wheelbase Sedan)

Model Year Covered:

2014

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Premium compact executive car (sport sedan/wagon/GT).

Key Competitors:

Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Volvo S60, Cadillac ATS, Acura ILX.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive bias (with xDrive AWD available), precise steering, and engaging driving experience.

Powertrain Options:

Wide range of efficient and powerful turbocharged four-cylinder and inline-six petrol engines, as well as efficient diesel options.

Technology And Comfort:

Advanced iDrive infotainment system, optional driver assistance features, premium interior materials, and a comfortable ride for long journeys.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Specificity:

Vehicle Specific - Not Generic

Target Audience:

Dealership Technicians

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (Specific count not provided in product info, typical for comprehensive manuals of this era)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Digital (PDF) or Printed Book - assumed PDF for broad accessibility and dealership use

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (including timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery), Exhaust systems, Engine management (ECU, sensors, actuators), Transmission (manual and automatic, including dual-clutch and ZF variants), Drivetrain (differentials, driveshafts, axles)

Chassis:

Brake systems (ABS, DSC, EBD, parking brake), Suspension (front and rear, including adaptive options), Steering systems (hydraulic and electric power steering), Wheel and tire specifications, Chassis alignment

Electrical:

Basic electrical systems, Lighting, Ignition, Charging system (alternator, battery), Starter motor, Power windows, locks, mirrors, Seats, HVAC blower, Wiper/washer systems, Instrument cluster, Warning lights and diagnostics, Advanced electronics (CAN bus, LIN bus, MOST bus communication), PDC (Parking Distance Control), Cameras, Sensors (parking, rain, light)

Body:

Body panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk/Tailgate, Bumpers, Interior trim, Seats, Headliner, Sunroof, Convertible top (if applicable to specific body style), Glass and seals, Corrosion protection, Body repair and welding specifications, Paint and finish details

Comfort And Convenience:

Climate control (manual and automatic), Seats (manual and power adjustment, heating, ventilation, memory), Infotainment systems (iDrive, audio, navigation), Connectivity features (Bluetooth, USB, auxiliary), Keyless entry and start, Remote functions, Interior lighting, Sun protection (sunroof, shades)

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), Service intervals for all major components, Inspection procedures, Tire rotation and pressure checks

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, Electrical circuit testing, Component testing procedures, Fault isolation strategies

Repair And Overhaul:

Component removal and installation (engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, steering), Engine overhaul procedures, Transmission repair, Electrical component replacement, Bodywork repairs, HVAC system servicing, Interior component repair

Special Tools And Equipment:

Identification and usage of BMW-specific tools, Diagnostic equipment requirements (ISTA/D, ISTA/P), Calibration and programming procedures

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete rebuilds, including torque specifications, wiring diagrams, and component tolerances.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF, optimized for searchability and ease of navigation across various devices.

Quality Standard:

High-resolution diagrams, clear text, and sharp photographic reproductions if included.

Binding:

If printed, typically a durable comb binding or hard/softcover for workshop use.

Paper Quality:

If printed, durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

BMW TwinPower Turbo (B-Series inline-4, N-Series inline-6)

Common Engines:

N20B20 (2.0L I4 turbo - 320i, 328i), N55B30 (3.0L I6 turbo - 335i), B47D20 (2.0L I4 diesel turbo - 320d), B37D30 (3.0L I6 diesel turbo - 330d, 335d - less common in US)

Power Output Range:

180 hp (320i) to 300 hp (335i) for gasoline models; 180 hp (320d) to 313 hp (335d) for diesel models.

Torque Delivery:

Characterized by strong low-end torque due to turbocharging, providing excellent drivability.

Injection Type:

Direct Injection (High-pressure)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended for most gasoline engines), Diesel Fuel (for diesel variants)

Type:

Water-cooled with electric fan and integrated coolant reservoir.

Oil Type Recommendation:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) certified synthetic oil, e.g., Castrol EDGE Professional BMW LL04 5W-30.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

8-Speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (ZF 8HP series) became standard on many models, with a 6-speed manual available on some variants.

Type:

6-Speed Manual Transmission (GS6-45DZ, GS6-53DZ depending on engine)

Automatic Features:

Sport Mode, Manual Mode (with paddle shifters on some trims), EfficientDynamics integration, Auto Start-Stop.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Specific ZF Lifeguard Fluid (e.g., Lifeguard 8, ATF 8HP) - not a generic ATF. Consult manual for exact BMW P/N.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-3 or equivalent, viscosity typically 75W-80 or 75W-85 GL-4.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase F30:

Approx. 110.1 inches (2799 mm)

Length F30:

Approx. 182.2 inches (4629 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.9 inches (1802 mm)

Height:

F30: Approx. 56.3 inches (1430 mm); F31: Approx. 56.6 inches (1438 mm); F34: Approx. 59.0 inches (1499 mm)

Trunk Volume F30:

Approx. 15.2 cubic feet (430 liters)

Trunk Volume F31 F34:

F31: Approx. 16.7 cu ft (470 L) to 53.0 cu ft (1500 L) with seats folded; F34: Approx. 18.7 cu ft (530 L) to 51.3 cu ft (1450 L) with seats folded.

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3,300 lbs (1500 kg) to 3,800 lbs (1725 kg) depending on configuration.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Wheel Offset:

Typically ET34 to ET47 depending on wheel size and model.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Generally 5-Star overall safety rating (may vary by specific test year and sub-model). Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS for some configurations.

Active Safety Systems:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Brake Drying, Ready-Off feature, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Optional: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Collision Warning with Pedestrian Detection.

Passive Safety Features:

Advanced airbag system (front, side, curtain), Active head restraints, Front and rear crumple zones, Reinforced safety cell, ISOFIX child seat anchors.

💡 Technology Features

System Name:

BMW iDrive (CIC or NBT depending on production date).

Features:

Navigation system, Radio (AM/FM/Satellite), CD/DVD player, USB/Auxiliary inputs, Bluetooth connectivity (audio streaming and hands-free calling), Voice control, ConnectedDrive services (optional).

Available Systems:

Parking Assistant, Surround View cameras, Lane Change Warning, Active Protection, Speed Limit Info.

Connectivity Options:

BMW Assist, BMW Online, Remote Services, Wi-Fi Hotspot (optional).

Display Type:

Analog gauges with integrated digital display for trip computer, fuel economy, vehicle status, and navigation prompts.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km) or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and vehicle computer. Condition Based Service (CBS) system.

Major Service Items:

Spark plugs (approx. 60,000 miles), Air filter (approx. 30,000 miles or as per CBS), Cabin filter (approx. 15,000-20,000 miles or as per CBS), Brake fluid flush (every 2 years), Coolant flush (every 4-5 years).

Coolant Type:

BMW Coolant/Antifreeze - Blue (G48) or similar ethylene glycol-based coolant with silicate inhibitors. Always use BMW-approved or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Type:

BMW DOT 4 HP (High Performance) Brake Fluid.

Common Faults N20:

Timing chain tensioner and guides failure (early models), PCV valve failure, Oil filter housing gasket leaks, Water pump failure (electric).

Common Faults General:

Turbocharger issues (wastegate rattle, oil leaks), EVAP canister purge valve failures, Oil cooler leaks, Front control arm bushings wear, Door seal leaks/wind noise, Battery registration (after replacement).

Diesel Specific Issues:

EGR valve clogging, Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) issues, Glow plug failures, NOx sensor failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Philosophy:

BMW is synonymous with 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' emphasizing performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.

F30 Introduction:

The F30 generation (launched in 2011 for the 2012 model year) represented a significant evolution from the E90 generation, introducing new engine technologies, a more sophisticated interior, and the introduction of the Gran Turismo (F34) and long-wheelbase (F35) variants for specific markets.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured at BMW's plants in Dingolfing, Germany, and Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA, as well as other global facilities. The F35 long-wheelbase version is primarily produced in China for the Chinese market.

Production Period:

2011-2019 (F30/F31/F34/F35 generations).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Key Awards:

Frequently recognized for its driving dynamics, performance, and luxury appointments. Often a recipient of 'Best Car for the Money' or 'Best Luxury Car' awards from various automotive publications.

Consumer Reports:

Generally receives good, but sometimes average to below-average, predicted reliability ratings from organizations like Consumer Reports, often due to the complexity of its advanced electronics and powertrain components. Maintenance and repair costs can be higher than non-premium brands.

Emissions Standards:

Meets or exceeds relevant emissions standards for the model year (e.g., EPA/CARB in the US, Euro 6 in Europe).