Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan
Bmw Positioning:
Entry-level model in BMW's premium sedan lineup, offering a balance of performance, luxury, and driving dynamics.
Key Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for BMW's characteristic 'Ultimate Driving Machine' feel, with precise steering and balanced handling.
Engine Performance:
Powerful inline-six engine known for its smooth operation and responsiveness.
Interior Quality:
High-quality materials, ergonomic design, and driver-focused cockpit.
Technology Integration:
Early adoption of advanced electronic systems and features for its class.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management (DME/ECU)
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (Getrag GS6-37BZ), Automatic transmission (ZF 6HP19), clutch, driveshafts, differential
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), Rear suspension (multi-link), steering system (hydraulic power steering), wheel alignment
Brake Systems:
Front disc brakes (vented rotors), Rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake fluid specifications
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting system, horn, wipers, power windows, power seats, central locking, fuse box diagrams, relay locations, wiring diagrams
Body Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, seating, airbags, climate control system (HVAC)
Comfort Systems:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, power accessories, interior electronics
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) system, fault code reading and interpretation, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement, battery service
Repair Procedures:
Engine component removal and installation (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), transmission repair, suspension component replacement, brake system bleeding and repair, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement, body panel repair
Troubleshooting Guides:
System-specific troubleshooting flowcharts and diagnostic trees for common and complex issues
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for diagnosing faults using diagnostic tools and manual methods
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for critical fasteners across all systems
Depth:
In-depth technical information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics including sensor data interpretation and actuator testing
Rebuild Instructions:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission component rebuilding
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-cylinder
Displacement:
2996 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
Valve Train:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 valves, Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing), VALVETRONIC
Horsepower:
255 hp @ 6600 rpm
Torque:
220 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Multi-point injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Transmission Type Std:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag GS6-37BZ)
Transmission Type Opt:
6-Speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 6HP19)
Automatic Features:
Steptronic manual shift mode, sport mode
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 (Refer to manual for specific part number and quantity)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF Lifeguard Fluid 6 (Refer to manual for specific part number and quantity)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star Driver, 4-Star Passenger (for 2006 model year, specific ratings may vary by test)
IIHS Front Crash Test:
Good (for 2006 model year)
Active Safety Systems:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (air curtains), active front head restraints, 3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Infotainment System:
BMW iDrive system (first generation), offering navigation, radio, CD player, and climate control functions.
Optional Audio:
Premium audio systems often included Harman Kardon surround sound.
Driver Assistance Features:
Park Distance Control (PDC), Rain-sensing wipers, Automatic climate control.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth preparation for hands-free calling, optional SiriusXM satellite radio.
Headlights:
Standard Halogen headlights, optional Xenon Adaptive headlights with auto-leveling and cornering function.
Oil Change Interval:
Condition-based service (CBS) system typically indicates oil changes every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.
Major Service Items:
Spark plugs (approx. 60,000 miles), brake fluid flush (every 2 years), coolant flush (approx. 4 years or 100,000 miles), serpentine belt inspection/replacement (as needed, check for wear)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 or LL-01 certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 liters (approx. 6.9 US quarts)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or Pentosin CHF 202 (Refer to manual for exact specification)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (BMW High Performance DOT 4 or equivalent)
Engine Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing gaskets are common leak points.
Cooling System Components:
Plastic water pump impellers can fail, and the aluminum radiator can develop leaks over time. Expansion tank leaks are also common.
Pcv System Failures:
The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve and its associated hoses can become clogged or leak, leading to rough idle and oil consumption.
Ignition Coils Spark Plugs:
Ignition coils can fail, leading to misfires. Spark plugs should be replaced at recommended intervals.
Suspension Wear:
Control arm bushings and sway bar links are common wear items, affecting steering and ride quality.
Electric Water Pump Failure:
Later models in the E90 generation may feature an electric water pump, which can fail and require replacement.
Bmw Heritage:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) has a long-standing reputation for producing high-performance luxury vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics and engineering excellence.
3 Series Evolution:
The 3 Series has been BMW's core model for decades, evolving through multiple generations, each setting benchmarks for sport sedans. The E90 generation marked a significant redesign with a more modern aesthetic and advanced technology.
Production Years:
The E90 3 Series generation spanned from 2005 to 2011 (sedan body style).
Manufacturing Plants:
Primary production for the E90 chassis was at BMW's plant in Munich, Germany, with additional production in other global facilities.
Ward Auto World Engine Award:
The BMW N52 engine received a Ward's 10 Best Engines award in 2006 for its blend of performance, efficiency, and smoothness.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally received good reliability ratings from Consumer Reports for its class, though specific model years and components can vary.
Epa Fuel Economy Mpg City Manual:
Approximately 18 MPG
Epa Fuel Economy Mpg Highway Manual:
Approximately 26 MPG
Epa Fuel Economy Mpg City Automatic:
Approximately 17 MPG
Epa Fuel Economy Mpg Highway Automatic:
Approximately 26 MPG