Segment:
Compact Executive Car
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance-oriented drivers, luxury car buyers
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus ES, Acura Integra
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its sporty handling, balanced chassis, and driver-focused experience
Engine Performance:
Powerful inline-six engines offering smooth power delivery and excellent acceleration
Build Quality:
High-quality interior materials and solid construction typical of BMW
Design:
Iconic E36 design characterized by clean lines and a timeless aesthetic
Model Variants:
M3, 318i, 323i, 325i, 328i
Body Styles:
Sedan, Coupe, Convertible
Type:
Service Workshop Repair Manual
Operating Systems:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Method:
Instant Download (Post-Payment)
Software:
Adobe PDF Reader
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for M43, M50, M52 series engines
Fuel System:
Fuel injection, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control (EVAP)
Ignition System:
Coil-on-plug (COP) ignition, ignition coils, spark plugs, DME (Digital Motor Electronics) control
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, expansion tank, fan clutch/electric fan
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, oxygen sensors (O2 sensors)
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, clutch replacement, driveline components, differential
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, fluid flushing
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting system, OBC (On-Board Computer)
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, seat adjustment, interior trim removal
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system service and repair
Chassis:
Unibody construction, chassis components
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (where applicable), diagnostic procedures for various systems
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle components
Rebuilds:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Replacement:
Component replacement guides (e.g., water pump, alternator, clutch, brakes)
Adjustment:
Component adjustments (e.g., parking brake, headlight aiming)
Specifications:
Torque specifications, fluid capacities, tolerances, diagnostic data
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
User Level:
Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics
318I Engine:
2.5L I4 (M43B25) - 115-118 hp, 160-170 Nm torque (Note: Early 318i may have had a smaller 1.8L engine, but M43B25 is common for this period)
323I Engine:
2.5L I6 (M52B25) - 170 hp, 245 Nm torque
325I Engine:
2.5L I6 (M50B25) - 189 hp, 230 Nm torque
328I Engine:
2.8L I6 (M52B28) - 193 hp, 280 Nm torque
M3 Engine:
3.0L I6 (S50B30) - 240 hp, 305 Nm torque (Euro Spec) / 3.2L I6 (S50B32) - 295 hp, 320 Nm torque (Euro Spec later models) / 3.0L I6 (S50B30US) - 240 hp, 305 Nm torque (US Spec) / 3.2L I6 (S52B32) - 240 hp, 325 Nm torque (US Spec later models)
Acceleration 0 60 Mph:
Varies by engine and transmission, typically 5.6-7.5 seconds for 325i/328i models
Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard spark plugs; higher for long-life types
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic recommended (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol-based, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 synthetic brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent (BMW P/N 81 22 9 400 272)
Cooling System Failures:
Plastic cooling system components (expansion tank, hoses) can become brittle and fail, leading to coolant leaks.
Heater Core:
Heater core leaks are a common, albeit labor-intensive, repair.
Oil Filter Housing Gasket:
Leaking oil filter housing gasket is a common source of oil leaks.
Vanos System:
Variable valve timing (VANOS) can develop leaks or become noisy, especially on higher-mileage M50/M52 engines.
Subframe Mounts:
Cracking or separation of the rear subframe mounting points can occur, particularly on sedans.
Window Regulators:
Power window regulators can fail, leading to windows not operating correctly.
ABS Sensors:
ABS wheel speed sensors are prone to failure, triggering ABS warning lights.
