Segment:
Premium Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon/Coupe/Convertible
Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35/G37, Acura TL.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for BMW's signature 'Ultimate Driving Machine' characteristics: precise steering, balanced handling, and engaging chassis dynamics.
Powertrain Options:
Smooth and potent inline-six engines, available with xDrive all-wheel drive for enhanced traction.
Design:
Classic BMW styling with a focus on driver-centric ergonomics and premium interior materials.
Powertrain:
Engine, fuel, exhaust, transmission (manual & automatic), drivetrain, cooling, lubrication.
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, ABS, DSC), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instrumentation, body electronics, comfort systems, infotainment wiring, diagnostic connectors.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, interior trim, exterior trim, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts).
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting guides, wiring diagrams, component testing.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, circuit tracing.
Installation:
Component installation and replacement procedures, including torque specifications.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly/disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing systems.
Engine Management Diagnostics:
Fuel injection system diagnosis, ignition system diagnosis, emission control systems, DME (Digital Motor Electronics) troubleshooting.
Transmission Overhaul:
Detailed steps for manual and automatic transmission removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Front and rear suspension component replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), steering rack and pump service.
Brake System Repair:
Brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, ABS/DSC hydraulic unit troubleshooting, brake line replacement.
Electrical System Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnosing electrical faults, comfort electronics module (FEM/BDC on later models, relevant modules for E90), DME diagnosis.
Body And Interior Repair:
Panel replacement, door and window mechanism repair, seat and trim component service, HVAC system diagnostics and repair.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on BMW proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., DIS, ISTA/D) and common OBD-II scanners used for diagnosis.
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics. Includes component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and adjustment.
NHTSA Ratings:
Generally received high ratings (4-5 stars) in NHTSA crash tests for its generation.
Driver Assistance:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist.
Restraint System:
Advanced airbag system (front, side-impact, curtain airbags), active head restraints, seatbelt pretensioners.
Advanced Safety:
Adaptive Headlights, Parking Distance Control (PDC), Rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlight control.
Head Unit:
Professional Radio, Business CD, or iDrive (CCC or CIC systems depending on year/options).
Connectivity:
Bluetooth phone integration, USB audio interface (optional on earlier models, standard on later), AUX input.
Navigation:
Optional Professional Navigation system with iDrive control.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control, optional heated seats, optional heated steering wheel.
Headlights:
Halogen standard, Bi-Xenon Adaptive Headlights optional.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, based on BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system and driving conditions.
Brakes:
Brake fluid flush every 2 years. Brake pad and rotor inspection at regular service intervals.
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) synthetic oil, typically 0W-30 or 5W-30. (Refer to manual for exact spec per model year/engine).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) mixed with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MTF LT-2 (Manual Transmission Fluid)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF LT-3 (Automatic Transmission Fluid) for GA6HP19Z
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent (Green fluid)
Common Problems:
Valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system issues, water pump failures (plastic impeller), ignition coil failures, VANOS solenoid issues, fuel injector issues, electric power steering pump failures (later models), diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues (diesel models - not applicable here).
Replacement Interval:
Typically 60,000 miles
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as per CBS
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as per CBS
