🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series Sedan

Model Code:

E90 (Facelift)

Year:

2011

Trim Level:

328i

Body Style:

Sedan

Generation Name:

E90 (Facelift)

Generation Years:

2005-2013 (E90 Sedan)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2011 BMW 328i Sedan represents the pinnacle of the compact executive luxury sedan segment, appealing to drivers who value performance, refinement, and advanced technology.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed directly with other premium sedans such as the Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, and Cadillac CTS.

Key Features:

Renowned for its dynamic driving characteristics (BMW's signature 'Ultimate Driving Machine'), comfortable yet sporty interior, sophisticated styling, and a range of advanced technology and safety features.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driving Information, iDrive System, Navigation, Communication, Vehicle Settings, Comfort & Convenience, Safety Systems, Driving Dynamics, Maintenance & Care, Technical Data, Emergency Procedures, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Servotronic Power Steering, ABS, DSC, Airbags, Keyless Entry, Remote Control, Seat Adjustments, Storage Compartments, Sunroof, Windows, Wipers and Washers, Mirrors, Locks, Boot Lid Operation, Fuel Filler Flap, Warning Lights and Indicators, On-Board Computer, Radio Operation, CD/DVD Player, Auxiliary Input, Bluetooth Connectivity, USB Interface, Climate Control Operation, Automatic Climate Control, Manual Air Conditioning, Heating System, Seat Heating, Steering Wheel Heating, Headlight Control, Fog Lights, Interior Lighting, Exterior Lighting, Automatic Headlights, Daytime Running Lights, Parking Lights, Hazard Warning Flashers, Information Displays, Vehicle Status Messages, Fuel Consumption, Range, Oil Level Check, Tire Pressure Monitoring, Service Indicator, Clock and Date, Trip Computer, Speed Sensitive Volume, Sound System Settings, Navigation System Basics, Voice Control, Telephone Functions, Mobile Device Pairing, Vehicle Personalization, Door Locks, Child Safety Locks, Central Locking, Power Windows, One-Touch Operation, Exterior Mirrors, Interior Rear-View Mirror, Rain Sensor, Automatic Wipers, Headlight Washers, Snow Setting, Engine Compartment Overview, Fluid Checks (Coolant, Brake Fluid, Oil, Washer Fluid), Tire Changing, Jacking Points, Tire Pressure Recommendations, Jump Starting, Towing Information, Emergency Kit Contents, First Aid Kit, Warning Triangle, Safety Belt System, Airbag System Operation, Seat Belt Pretensioners, Child Seat Installation (ISOFIX), Child Restraint Systems, Immobilizer System, Remote Central Locking, Alarm System, Anti-theft System, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Hill Start Assist, Performance Control, Cruise Control, M Sport Package Features (if applicable), Suspension System Basics, Brake System Basics, Electrical System Overview, Fuses and Relays, Bulb Replacement Guide, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), Regular Maintenance Checks, Oil Change Intervals, Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Brake Pad and Rotor Wear, Coolant System Maintenance, Belt Inspection, Tire Rotation and Replacement, Wheel Alignment, Battery Maintenance, Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement, Washer Fluid Refill, Exterior Cleaning and Care, Interior Cleaning and Care, Leather Care, Upholstery Care, Headliner Care, Warning Signs and Symptoms of Potential Issues, Troubleshooting Common Problems, Fluid Leaks, Unusual Noises, Dashboard Warning Lights Interpretation, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) Overview, Recommended Lubricants and Fluids, BMW Approved Parts, Engine Identification, Chassis Identification, VIN Decoder Basics, Owner Responsibilities, Warranty Information Summary, Service Network Information, Contacting BMW Customer Service, Roadside Assistance Information

Page Count:

350

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

Download Type:

Instant Download

Source:

Factory Original

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine operation, powertrain, chassis, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical system, climate control, infotainment, iDrive system, safety features (airbags, DSC, ABS), lighting, interior controls, exterior features, convenience features, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting.

Procedures Included:

Vehicle startup and shutdown, instrument cluster interpretation, climate control operation, audio system usage, navigation system basics, Bluetooth pairing, seat and steering wheel adjustments, lighting operation, door and window operation, fuel filler flap usage, tire pressure monitoring system checks, fluid level checks (oil, coolant, washer fluid), jack points and tire changing, jump starting, emergency procedures, basic warning light explanations, routine maintenance checks, and care instructions.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive user-level information for operation, basic checks, and routine maintenance. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures, repair instructions, or component-level disassembly/assembly, which are found in a Service Manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchable:

Yes

Printable:

Yes

Print Quality:

High-resolution, factory-quality scans

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

N52B30

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder

Displacement:

2996 cc (3.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

85 mm x 88 mm

Compression Ratio:

12.0:1

Horsepower:

230 hp @ 6500 rpm

Torque:

200 lb-ft @ 2750-4200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Valvetronic and Double VANOS

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended)

Emission Control:

California Emission Equipment (LEV II)

Engine Control Unit:

Bosch DME (Digital Motor Electronics)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Manual (Getrag GS6-37BZ)

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Steptronic Automatic with Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC)

Automatic Features:

Paddle shifters (optional), Sport mode, manual shift gate

Manual 1St Gear:

4.07

Manual 2Nd Gear:

2.36

Manual 3Rd Gear:

1.55

Manual 4Th Gear:

1.16

Manual 5Th Gear:

1.00

Manual 6Th Gear:

0.85

Manual Reverse:

3.73

Manual Final Drive:

3.46

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF 6 (Pentosin ATF1 or equivalent)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-3 (Pentosin MTF2 or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

181.8 inches (4618 mm)

Width:

69.8 inches (1774 mm)

Height:

56.7 inches (1441 mm)

Wheelbase:

108.7 inches (2760 mm)

Front Track:

59.4 inches (1509 mm)

Rear Track:

60.5 inches (1537 mm)

Front Headroom:

38.6 inches (980 mm)

Rear Headroom:

36.7 inches (932 mm)

Front Legroom:

41.5 inches (1054 mm)

Rear Legroom:

34.4 inches (874 mm)

Cargo Volume:

15.0 cubic feet (425 liters)

Curb Weight:

3461 lbs (1570 kg) (Manual), 3539 lbs (1605 kg) (Automatic)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

4453 lbs (2019 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Not Recommended

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

5-Star (for models tested)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (for models tested)

Active Safety Systems:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Traction Control, Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Run-flat tires

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front-side airbags, head protection system (curtain airbags for front and rear), active front head restraints, three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and belt force limiters, LATCH/ISOFIX child seat anchors

Optional Safety Features:

Xenon Adaptive Headlights, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Parking Assistant (rear park distance control), Alarm System

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW iDrive System (CCC or CIC professional navigation depending on options)

Display Size:

6.5-inch or 8.8-inch color display

Audio System:

Standard HiFi System, optional Harman Kardon Surround Sound System

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB audio interface, Auxiliary input (AUX)

Driver Assistance Features:

Park Distance Control (PDC), Rain Sensor, Automatic Headlight Activation, Cruise Control, optional Navigation System Professional

Advanced Connectivity:

BMW ConnectedDrive (optional, depending on options packages, may include internet access, real-time traffic information)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Condition-based service (CBS) system, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil quality.

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Change:

Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles or 2 years thereafter (BMW approved coolant).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 60,000 miles for the N52 engine.

Air Filter Replacement:

As indicated by the CBS system, typically every 30,000-45,000 miles.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30, BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil. Example: Castrol EDGE Professional OE 5W-30.

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.9 US quarts (6.5 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or similar ethylene glycol-based with corrosion inhibitors).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 (BMW High Performance DOT 4 or equivalent).

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW PSF LS (Power Steering Fluid Low Speed) or Pentosin CHF 11S.

Known Issues:

Water pump and thermostat failure (often plastic components prone to cracking), valve cover gasket leaks (oil smell), oil pan gasket leaks, eccentric shaft sensor failure, ignition coil and spark plug issues, VANOS solenoids, power steering hose leaks, and potential CBS system inaccuracies.

Common Repairs:

Replacement of water pump and thermostat assembly, valve cover gasket replacement, power steering fluid flush and hose replacement, ignition coil and spark plug replacement, O2 sensor replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) has a long and distinguished history in automotive engineering, known for its focus on performance, driving dynamics, and premium quality since its inception.

Model Evolution:

The 3 Series is BMW's best-selling line and has been a benchmark for sports sedans since its introduction in 1975. The E90 generation, launched in 2006, represented a significant advancement over its E46 predecessor, with a more refined chassis, updated powertrains, and introduction of features like iDrive.

Production Plant:

Primarily produced at BMW Group Plant Munich, Germany, and Dingolfing, Germany. Also produced in other global facilities.

E90 Sedan Production Years:

2006-2011

E90 Facelift Year:

2009 (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Award Type:

Ward's 10 Best Engines (N52 engine family)

Recognition Detail:

The N52 inline-six engine, featured in the 328i, was frequently lauded for its smoothness, responsiveness, and efficiency, earning spots on Ward's 10 Best Engines list in prior years.

Model Recognition:

The E90 3 Series has consistently been praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, often being named a top pick in its segment for performance-oriented buyers.

Certification Type:

IIHS Top Safety Pick