🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Variant:

316

Model Variant Ii:

316i

Year:

1991

Chassis Code:

E36

Engine Code 316:

M40B16

Engine Code 316I:

M40B16

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact executive sedan/coupe.

Competitive Set:

Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80, Alfa Romeo 75.

Bmw Philosophy:

Emphasizes driving dynamics ('The Ultimate Driving Machine'), build quality, and refined engineering.

E36 Generation Significance:

Marked a significant step forward in chassis design, safety, and comfort compared to its E30 predecessor.

316 316I Positioning:

Entry-level models providing accessible BMW ownership with a focus on efficiency and a balance of performance.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Summary:

Comprehensive service, maintenance, and troubleshooting for all 1991 BMW 316 and 316i models, including all engine, transmission, and trim variations.

Estimated Pages:

Over 1500

Type:

Workshop Repair and Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing components, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, electronic control unit (ECU) diagnosis, emissions control systems, sensor testing.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox overhaul, gear shifting mechanisms, driveshafts, final drive unit.

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (semi-trailing arms), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Brake system components (master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pads), hydraulic lines, parking brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and components.

Steering:

Steering system components, power steering system, steering column, steering linkage, rack and pinion assembly.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, horns, wipers, washers, power windows, central locking.

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, dashboard, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system.

Chassis And Frame:

Frame construction, body mounts, structural components.

Transmission Auto Coverage:

Automatic transmission (if applicable) operation, fluid service, basic troubleshooting, component identification.

Preventative Maintenance:

Routine inspection, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid), filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Engine Repair:

Engine tuning, compression testing, gasket replacement (head gasket, intake manifold gasket), oil seal replacement, piston ring replacement, bearing service.

Fuel System Service:

Fuel pump testing, injector diagnosis and cleaning, fuel filter replacement, fuel line repair.

Cooling System Service:

Coolant flush and refill, thermostat replacement, water pump replacement, radiator service, heater core diagnosis.

Transmission Service:

Clutch adjustment and replacement, transmission fluid and filter change, internal transmission component repair.

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, brake line bleeding, ABS component replacement and testing.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Shock absorber and strut replacement, control arm bushing replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump and rack repair.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams, circuit testing, component testing (alternator, starter, sensors), fuse and relay diagnosis, troubleshooting electrical faults.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic charts and flowcharts for common drivability issues, starting problems, electrical malfunctions, and mechanical failures.

Bodywork Repair:

Panel alignment, minor dent repair, trim piece replacement.

Depth:

Expert-level, covering complete vehicle overhaul, diagnostics, and component-level repair.

Diagnostic Coverage:

In-depth diagnostic procedures for all major systems, including electronic fault code retrieval and interpretation (where applicable via specific diagnostic tools).

Specification Detail:

Precise torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and performance parameters for all components.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and illustrations.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M40B16

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder

Displacement:

1.6 Liters (1596 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 71.0 mm

Horsepower 316:

99 bhp @ 5600 rpm

Torque 316:

134 Nm (99 lb-ft) @ 4250 rpm

Horsepower 316I:

99 bhp @ 5600 rpm

Torque 316I:

141 Nm (104 lb-ft) @ 4250 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic M1.3 (316i) or M1.7 (depending on specific market/update) Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per BMW specification, typically 91 RON)

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) with 2 valves per cylinder

Timing Drive:

Timing Chain (Note: M40 engines are known for potential timing chain tensioner issues)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag 240/5)

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22-EH, depending on market and model specification)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate

Final Drive Ratio:

Typically 3.45:1 (Manual), 3.15:1 (Automatic) - check specific model

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan (Saloon)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)

Length:

Approx. 4433 mm (174.5 in) (Sedan)

Width:

Approx. 1711 mm (67.4 in)

Height:

Approx. 1393 mm (54.8 in) (Sedan)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1260 - 1350 kg (2778 - 2976 lbs), depending on body style and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Approx. 1750 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

Historical Safety:

Early E36 models featured improved crash structures over previous generations. Specific official crash test ratings from organizations like NHTSA or Euro NCAP for this exact year/variant might be limited, but the E36 platform generally performed well for its era.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available on most models.

Airbags:

Driver airbag was standard on later E36 models and available as an option on earlier ones, including 1991. Passenger airbag was less common in 1991.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear.

Chassis Design:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones front and rear.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed radio/cassette player with options for upgraded speakers or CD changers. Basic AM/FM tuning, sought after for its period-correct simplicity.

User Interface:

Analogue gauges and physical buttons for climate control and audio. Focus on driver-centric controls.

ABS:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced braking control.

Connectivity Options:

None (This era predates widespread automotive connectivity features).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Recommended every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.

Coolant Change Interval:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Brake Fluid Change Interval:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, potentially longer for specific types if used.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3. Viscosity typically SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40, depending on climate. BMW recommended Castrol.

Coolant Type:

BMW blue coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ZF TE-ML 04D or equivalent ATF (Dexron III often substituted)

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF (Dexron II or III)

M40 Engine Timing Chain:

The plastic timing chain tensioner guides can become brittle and fail, leading to significant engine damage if not addressed. Regular inspection and replacement are advised.

Cooling System Leaks:

Plastic coolant expansion tanks and pipes can become brittle and crack, causing leaks. Water pumps and thermostats are also common failure points.

Heater Core:

Heater core leaks are a common issue, often leading to coolant smells inside the cabin and fogged windows.

Suspension Bushings:

Rubber suspension bushings (e.g., control arm bushings, trailing arm bushings) can degrade over time, affecting handling and ride quality.

Window Regulators:

Manual and electric window regulators can fail, causing windows to drop or become difficult to operate.

ABS Sensor Failure:

ABS wheel speed sensors can fail, causing the ABS warning light to illuminate and disabling the system.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for engineering, performance, and driver-focused vehicles since its inception in 1916.

3 Series History:

The 3 Series is BMW's best-selling model range, evolving from the 02 Series and the iconic E21/E30 generations. The E36 represented the third generation of the 3 Series.

E36 Introduction:

The E36 generation debuted in 1990 (for the 1991 model year in North America) and replaced the E30.

E36 Production Years:

1990–2000 (Europe), 1991–1999 (North America)

E36 Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), USA (Spartanburg, SC - for specific models/markets later in the generation).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Contemporary Reviews:

The E36 generation generally received positive reviews for its improved handling, comfort, and build quality compared to the E30, positioning it as a benchmark in the compact executive segment.

Critical Acclaim:

While specific 'awards' for the 1991 316/316i might be sparse, the E36 chassis itself was lauded for its excellent ride and handling balance.

Certification Note:

Not applicable for this type of product.