🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

328i xDrive

Year:

2012

Chassis Code:

F30

Engine Code:

N55B30 (3.0L Inline-6 Turbocharged)

Transmission Code:

ZF 8HP45 (8-speed automatic)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops, and BMW owners seeking in-depth technical information.

Competitors:

Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C300 4MATIC, Lexus IS250 AWD

Performance Focus:

Emphasis on the turbocharged inline-six engine and the dynamic driving characteristics of the 3 Series.

AWD System:

Detailed coverage of the xDrive all-wheel-drive system for enhanced traction and stability.

Technology Integration:

Information on the iDrive infotainment system and electronic control modules.

📋 Manual Details

All Systems:

Yes

Mechanical Repairs:

Comprehensive

Electrical Diagnostics:

Comprehensive

Body And Chassis:

Detailed

Maintenance Schedules:

Included

Troubleshooting Guides:

Extensive

Estimated Pages:

1000+

Type:

Factory Certified Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (PDF Download)

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Printable:

Yes, pages are printable for workshop use.

Illustrations:

High-quality diagrams, schematics, and photographic illustrations.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete disassembly, assembly, and repair of N55B30 engine components including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valvetrain, lubrication, and cooling systems.

Engine Management:

Detailed coverage of engine control unit (ECU) functions, sensors, actuators, fuel injection system (high-pressure direct injection), ignition system, turbocharger system, and emissions control.

Transmission Automatic:

Repair and maintenance of the ZF 8HP45 8-speed automatic transmission, including torque converter, valve body, mechatronics unit, clutch packs, and mechatronics module.

Drivetrain AWD:

Service and repair of the xDrive all-wheel-drive system, including transfer case operation, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, and CV joints.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, including MacPherson struts, multi-link rear suspension, coil springs, shock absorbers, control arms, anti-roll bars, and power steering system (electric).

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake calipers (front and rear vented discs), brake pads, rotors, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, and parking brake (electric).

Steering:

Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, including steering column, rack and pinion assembly, and power steering fluid requirements (if applicable to specific EPS design).

Electrical System:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, relay functions, battery specifications, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), and body control modules.

Climate Control:

HVAC system, including refrigerant R134a, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control module, and diagnostic procedures.

Infotainment And Navigation:

iDrive system, radio, audio components, navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, and associated control units.

Bodywork And Trim:

Exterior body panels, bumpers, doors, hood, trunk lid, interior trim components, and panel removal/installation procedures.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, differential fluid changes.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting for common and uncommon issues, electrical system diagnosis.

Engine Repairs:

Cylinder head gasket replacement, timing chain replacement, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft seal replacement, turbocharger repair/replacement.

Transmission Service:

Transmission fluid and filter change, valve body replacement, mechatronics unit repair, complete transmission rebuild.

Brake System Overhaul:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper rebuild/replacement, brake line replacement, ABS module diagnosis and replacement.

Suspension Component Replacement:

Shock absorber and strut replacement, control arm bushings, ball joint replacement, wheel bearing replacement.

Electrical Component Replacement:

Starter motor, alternator, fuel pump, ignition coils, sensors (e.g., O2, camshaft, crankshaft), power window regulators, door lock actuators.

Body Panel Replacement:

Door panel removal/installation, fender replacement, bumper cover repair/replacement, trunk lid adjustment.

Air Conditioning Service:

Refrigerant recharge, leak detection, component replacement (compressor, condenser).

Wheel Alignment:

Specifications and procedures for wheel alignment (front and rear).

Depth Of Information:

Factory-level diagnostic procedures, torque specifications, component tolerances, wiring diagrams with detailed pinouts, exploded views of assemblies.

Diagnostic Tools:

Mentions required diagnostic tools (e.g., BMW ISTA/D, INPA) and their usage for system diagnostics and programming.

Special Tools:

Lists and describes specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Troubleshooting Logic:

Provides systematic approaches to diagnosing faults, often including flowcharts and decision trees.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-Cylinder, Twin-Scroll Turbocharged with Valvetronic and Double VANOS

Displacement:

2993 cc (3.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 90.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Horsepower:

300 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque:

300 lb-ft @ 1200-5000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Direct Injection (High-Pressure)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or Higher)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

15.8 Gallons (60 Liters)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

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

Type:

N/A for 2012 328i xDrive

Gear Ratios 1-8:

4.71 / 3.14 / 2.11 / 1.67 / 1.32 / 1.00 / 0.84 / 0.67

Reverse Gear Ratio:

3.87

Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW ATF 3 (Shell M-1375.4 or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 9-10 Liters (service fill)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

182.2 inches (4628 mm)

Width:

70.5 inches (1791 mm)

Height:

57.1 inches (1450 mm)

Wheelbase:

108.7 inches (2760 mm)

Front Track:

60.0 inches (1524 mm)

Rear Track:

61.0 inches (1549 mm)

Front Headroom:

40.3 inches (1024 mm)

Rear Headroom:

38.1 inches (968 mm)

Front Legroom:

42.0 inches (1067 mm)

Rear Legroom:

35.1 inches (891 mm)

Trunk Volume:

15.1 cu ft (428 Liters)

Curb Weight:

3695 lbs (1676 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

4675 lbs (2120 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

5-Star (for 2012 Model Year)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes

ABS:

Standard (4-wheel disc brakes with ABS)

Traction Control:

Standard (Traction Control System - TCS)

Stability Control:

Standard (Dynamic Stability Control - DSC)

AWD System:

Standard (BMW xDrive Intelligent All-Wheel Drive)

Airbags:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection airbags (curtain airbags).

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren)

💡 Technology Features

System:

BMW iDrive System (CCC or CIC depending on specific options)

Features:

Navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, USB audio interface, optional Harman Kardon sound system, HD Radio.

Features:

Available Parking Assistant, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Headlights, Backup Camera.

Smartphone Integration:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming; optional BMW Apps integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Variable Oil Service Interval (Condition Based Service - CBS), typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. Check oil level frequently.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-01 FE (LL-01 FE) compliant synthetic oil, typically 0W-30 or 5W-30 viscosity.

Oil Filter Part Number:

11 42 7 953 129

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as per CBS. Check for contamination.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or annually. Check for debris and odor.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 60,000 miles for iridium spark plugs.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 formulation) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.0 Liters

Common Issues:

Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil filter housing; PCV valve issues; electric water pump failures; some turbocharger wastegate rattle; potential fuel injector issues.

Maintenance Tips:

Regularly check engine oil level, especially if the vehicle is driven hard. Address any oil leaks promptly. Ensure the cooling system is maintained to prevent premature failure of the electric water pump.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' emphasizing performance, luxury, and engineering.

F30 Generation:

The F30 platform marked a significant redesign for the 3 Series, offering a larger interior, updated technology, and more efficient powertrains compared to the E90 generation.

Introduction Of Turbocharging:

The 328i model in the F30 generation transitioned to a turbocharged 2.0L engine in some markets, but the 328i xDrive in 2012 retained the potent 3.0L turbocharged inline-six for a broader power band.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured at BMW's plant in Munich, Germany, and other global facilities.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Ward 10 Best Engines:

The N55 engine family has been recognized multiple times by Ward's 10 Best Engines for its performance, efficiency, and refinement.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Varies by model year and specific components, generally considered average to above average for its class, with specific model years having known issues addressed in the manual.