🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3-Series

Model Codes:

E90 (Sedan), E91 (Wagon/Touring), E92 (Coupe), E93 (Convertible)

Model Year:

2012

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

BMW 3-Series (E90, E91, E92, E93) owners and independent repair professionals seeking dealership-level repair data.

Advantage:

Provides exact factory information, differentiating from generic repair guides. Offers comprehensive coverage and digital convenience.

Digital Format Benefit:

One easy-to-use PDF manual, eliminating the need to flip through multiple books. Printable pages for convenient on-site use.

Content Quality:

Factory highly detailed repair manuals with complete instructions, illustrations, wiring schematics, and diagrams.

Diagnostic Tools:

While the manual doesn't include tools, it guides the user on diagnostic procedures that would typically require BMW's ISTA/D (or prior diagnostic software) for accessing ECU data and performing advanced tests.

Owner Empowerment:

Enables owners to perform repairs and maintenance themselves, reducing reliance on mechanics and fostering a deeper understanding of their vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

All E90, E91, E92, E93 body styles and their respective sub-models for the 2012 model year.

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive A-Z repair and maintenance for all systems.

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (specific count not provided, but described as 'complete' and 'everything you will ever need')

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Accuracy:

Vehicle-specific and factory-issued, ensuring the highest level of accuracy for repairs and maintenance.

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac OS

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, control systems, fuel service, emission control, intake/exhaust/cooling, lubrication, ignition, starting/charging, automatic transmission, manual transmission, transfer case, propeller shaft, drive shaft, differential, axle, suspension.

Chassis And Body:

Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brakes, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering, Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belts, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Locks, Exterior & Interior components.

Electrical And Electronics:

General Electrical, Multiplex/CAN Communication, Meter/Audio/Visual systems, Horn, Windshield/Glass/Mirrors, Instrument Panel.

Body And Trim:

Includes procedures for exterior body panels, interior trim pieces, and associated hardware.

Interior Systems:

Covers seats, seat belts, airbags, instrument cluster, HVAC controls, and interior lighting.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, general upkeep.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, symptom-based fault finding.

Repair:

Complete step-by-step repair instructions for all covered systems and components.

Installation:

Procedures for component replacement and installation.

Wiring Schematics:

Essential for diagnosing electrical faults, these are detailed wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.

Depth:

Factory-level detailed repair information, identical to that used by dealership technicians. Includes advanced diagnostics and complete rebuild procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Assumed to be searchable due to PDF format, enhancing usability.

Printable:

Yes, all pages are printable for workshop use.

Image Enhancement:

Ability to blow up images for enlarged printing of diagrams and illustrations.

Binding:

Digital (PDF), eliminating physical binding issues like greasy or torn pages.

Paper Type:

Not applicable for digital format, but printable on any paper type.

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader and Winzip (free online).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

The manual covers all engine variants offered for the 2012 3-Series E90/E91/E92/E93. This would include popular gasoline engines like the N52 (e.g., 328i, 330i) and N55 (e.g., 335i), as well as diesel engines (e.g., N47, N57) if applicable to the 2012 model year in the target market. Specific engine displacements, horsepower, and torque figures would be detailed within the manual.

Engine Tuning:

While not explicitly stated as a tuning guide, the manual provides specifications and procedures for all engine components, allowing for proper maintenance and potential performance adjustments within factory parameters.

Fuel Delivery Type:

Likely covers Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) for many variants, as well as port injection. Includes details on fuel pumps, injectors, pressure regulators, and fuel filters.

ECU Details:

Comprehensive coverage of Engine Control Unit (ECU) functions, sensor inputs, actuator outputs, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Emission Control Systems:

Details on catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, EVAP systems, and emissions-related DTCs.

Cooling Components:

Details on radiators, water pumps, thermostats, coolant hoses, expansion tanks, and cooling fan operation.

Oil Specifications:

Includes required engine oil viscosity grades (e.g., BMW Longlife-01, Longlife-04), oil capacity, and oil filter part numbers.

Ignition Components:

Covers ignition coils, spark plugs (with correct gap specifications), and the electronic ignition control module.

Engine Timing:

Procedures for camshaft timing, timing chain replacement, and related components, which are critical for modern BMW engines.

🔧 Transmission

Gearbox Options:

Details for both ZF automatic transmissions (e.g., 6-speed GA6HP19Z, GA6HP26Z, GA6HP28Z) and potentially manual transmissions (e.g., Getrag GS6-37BZ).

Transmission Features:

Information on transmission fluid types and capacities, torque converter operation (for automatics), clutch service (for manuals), and mechatronic unit diagnostics.

Differential Service:

Coverage of rear differential service, including fluid type and capacity, and differential rebuild procedures.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Provides specifications for Sedan (E90), Wagon/Touring (E91), Coupe (E92), and Convertible (E93) body styles, including length, width, height, and wheelbase.

Curb Weight:

Curb weight specifications will vary by model and body style, with details provided for each configuration.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

Standard wheel bolt pattern for the E90 generation is typically 5x120mm. Tire size recommendations and specifications will be detailed.

🛡️ Safety Features

Airbags:

Detailed information on Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) components, including airbag modules, sensors, and control modules.

Seat Belts:

Information on seat belt pre-tensioners, retractors, and adjustment mechanisms.

Braking System:

Comprehensive coverage of ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), and Brake Assist systems, including component diagnostics and repair.

Immobilizer:

Details on the engine immobilizer system (EWS or similar) for vehicle security.

💡 Technology Features

I Drive System:

Details on the iDrive infotainment system, including navigation, audio, climate control, and vehicle settings. Likely covers CIC (Car Information Computer) or similar generation for 2012.

Cruise Control:

Information on the operation and service of the cruise control system.

Parking Assist:

Details on parking sensors and potentially rear-view camera systems if equipped.

Headlights And Lighting:

Information on headlight aim, bulb replacement, adaptive headlight systems (if equipped), and interior lighting controls.

Bluetooth Integration:

Procedures for pairing and using Bluetooth for phone calls and audio streaming.

Multiplex Communication:

Explanation of the vehicle's multiplex network (e.g., CAN bus) for communication between various electronic control units (ECUs).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Service interval indicators (e.g., CBS - Condition Based Service) will be detailed, with typical oil change recommendations often around 10,000-15,000 miles or based on driving conditions.

Brake Fluid Interval:

Typical brake fluid flush interval is 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Spark Plug Interval:

Intervals vary by engine, but often between 60,000 and 100,000 miles for iridium spark plugs.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue or Pink Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent) with appropriate water mixture.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) or equivalent, as specified by BMW.

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW uses specific hydraulic fluid (e.g., CHF 11S or Pentosin 11S) for its power steering systems, particularly those with Active Steering.

Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:

Specific ZF fluid specifications (e.g., Lifeguard Fluid 6) will be detailed, with replacement intervals typically around 60,000 miles.

Common Failures:

The manual would likely address common issues such as valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, VANOS solenoid failures, water pump failures, ignition coil and spark plug issues, and potentially fuel injector problems on certain engine variants. Issues with HVAC systems, such as blower motor resistor failure, may also be covered.

Inspect Components:

Covers inspection of suspension components (bushings, ball joints), exhaust system, drive belts, hoses, and battery health.

📚 Vehicle History

Generation:

The E90 generation (2006-2011/2012 depending on body style) represents the fifth generation of the BMW 3 Series. This manual covers the later years of this generation, specifically 2012, which may include LCI (Life Cycle Impulse) updates.

Bmw Philosophy:

Reflects BMW's core principles of 'Sheer Driving Pleasure' through its advanced engineering, performance-oriented chassis, and sophisticated technology.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Reputation:

The E90 3-Series was widely praised for its driving dynamics, balanced chassis, and refined interiors. While the manual itself doesn't win awards, it provides the technical documentation for a highly regarded vehicle in its class.