Target Audience:
BMW owners, independent repair shops, and automotive enthusiasts seeking detailed repair and maintenance information.
Value Proposition:
Provides a comprehensive alternative to expensive factory CD-ROMs, offering all essential repair data in a single, accessible PDF.
Accessibility:
Compatible with all PC-based Windows operating systems and Mac.
Delivery:
Instant email delivery, eliminating shipping costs and wait times.
Engine:
Comprehensive engine mechanical and electrical diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for all listed variants.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission diagnosis, repair, and overhaul, including clutch systems and driveline components.
Brakes:
Hydraulic and ABS brake system repair, including pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, and brake fluid bleeding.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension diagnosis and repair, including struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, and wheel alignment.
Electrical System:
Complete electrical system troubleshooting, including wiring diagrams, component testing, battery, charging system, and lighting.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system diagnosis, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, and emissions control related to the fuel system.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, and heater core service and repair.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and pipe repair and replacement.
Heating And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, condenser), and climate control operation.
Emission Control Systems:
Diagnosis and repair of emission control components, including EGR, PCV, O2 sensors, and secondary air injection systems.
Body:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, and body hardware.
Maintenance:
Regular maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, and lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, including symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all mechanical and electrical components.
Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilding.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Depth Level:
Complete factory-level technical repair information suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Options Covered:
Includes 4-cylinder (e.g., M43 for 318i) and 6-cylinder (e.g., M50, M52 for 323i, 325i, 328i) engines, and potentially the S50/S52 for the M3.
M3 Performance:
Specific performance data and tuning information for the M3 variants.
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) and potentially individual throttle bodies for M3 variants.
Standard Transmission Type:
Manual transmissions are commonly standard on many of these models, particularly the M3.
Optional Transmission Type:
Automatic transmissions were widely available as an option across the 3 Series range.
Clutch Service:
Detailed procedures for clutch replacement and flywheel service.
Body Styles:
Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, and Touring (Wagon) variants are typically covered for the E36 generation.
Curb Weight:
Varies by model and body style, detailed within the manual.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Specified for payload and towing, detailed within the manual.
Crash Test Data:
While specific ratings might not be in a repair manual, it covers safety systems crucial for vehicle integrity.
ABS System:
Detailed diagnostic and repair procedures for the Anti-lock Braking System.
Traction Control:
Information on ASC (Automatic Stability Control) or DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) systems if equipped.
Airbag System:
Covers airbag system diagnostics, component replacement, and safety precautions.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Intervals vary by plug type (e.g., copper, platinum, iridium), generally between 30,000 to 100,000 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-3 years or a specified mileage interval.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW recommends specific grades such as 5W-30 or 0W-40 synthetic oils, often meeting BMW LL-01 or LL-04 specifications.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue or Green antifreeze (ethylene glycol based), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 is commonly specified.
Transmission Fluid:
Specific ATF for automatic transmissions (e.g., Dexron III or a BMW-approved equivalent) and gear oil for manual transmissions.
E36 Common Problems:
Includes information on common E36 issues such as VANOS problems, rear subframe cracks, cooling system component failures (plastic expansion tanks, water pumps), and oil leaks.
M3 Specific Issues:
Details on M3-specific wear items and potential issues related to higher performance components.
