Segment:
Premium compact executive sports sedan
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus ES300, Acura TL
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive platform, and engaging driving experience.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW build quality with a focus on driver ergonomics and premium interior materials.
Supported Years:
1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998
Type:
Full Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (Likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, cooling, lubrication, emissions
Drivetrain:
Transmission (manual & automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differentials, axles
Suspension Steering:
Front & rear suspension, steering gear, power steering system
Brakes:
Brake system components, ABS, parking brake
Electrical Electronics:
12V electrical system, battery, charging, starting, lighting, instrumentation, engine control module (ECM), body control module (BCM), infotainment (basic), power accessories
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, chassis components, frame
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks/changes, spark plugs, air filter, belts, hoses, brake pads/rotors
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), fault finding for all major systems, wiring diagrams for troubleshooting
Repair Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuild, electrical component replacement
Adjustment Calibration:
Wheel alignment, parking brake adjustment, idle speed adjustment
Depth:
Comprehensive: from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24-valve
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2793 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 83.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Horsepower:
190 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
205 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm (approx.)
Injection:
Bosch Motronic Engine Management System (ME 7.2 or similar)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Audio System:
Factory cassette/CD player with optional premium sound system (e.g., Harman Kardon).
Navigation:
Optional navigation system available on some models, typically with a trunk-mounted CD-ROM unit.
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC) or Automatic Stability Control + Traction (ASC+T) often optional or standard on later models.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months (synthetic oil recommended)
Spark Plugs:
Every 60,000 miles (e.g., NGK BKR6EQUP)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles
Transmission Fluid:
Manual: Check as needed, Automatic: Every 50,000-60,000 miles (BMW Blue fluid or equivalent)
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-98 or equivalent, e.g., Castrol SYNTEC 5W-30)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 Ethylene Glycol based)
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can crack; water pumps and thermostat housings are also common failure points.
Vanos:
Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) system seals can degrade, leading to rough idle and power loss.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and oil filter housing gaskets are prone to leaks.
Subframe Mounts:
Rear subframe mounting points can crack due to stress and age.
Window Regulators:
Plastic components in the window regulator mechanisms are known to break.
Heritage:
BMW's reputation for performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.
Generation:
E36 generation (1990-1999, with 328i introduced later)
328I Introduction:
The 328i replaced the 325i as the mid-range six-cylinder model for North America, offering increased displacement and power.
Production Period:
1995-1999 (for the 328i within the E36 platform)
