🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

318ti

Year:

1999

Chassis Code:

E36 Compact

Generation:

E36 (Compact variant)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1999 BMW 318ti, part of the E36 generation's compact offering, targeted younger enthusiasts and those seeking a more affordable entry into BMW ownership while retaining the brand's sporty character and engineering. It competed with hot hatches and compact premium sedans of its era.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf GTI, Honda Civic Si, and Audi A3. The 318ti offered a unique blend of BMW's rear-wheel-drive dynamics in a hatchback package, which was a distinctive offering.

Key Features:

Compact hatchback body style, rear-wheel drive, sporty handling characteristics, BMW build quality, premium interior appointments for its class, efficient yet peppy 4-cylinder engine.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All systems and components for the 1999 BMW 318ti

Page Count:

N/A (Software - digital content)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital Download/Disc)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, ignition system, transmission (manual & automatic), drivetrain, suspension (front & rear), steering, brakes (ABS, standard), wheels, tires, body and frame, interior trim, HVAC, electrical system (including wiring diagrams), lighting, safety systems (airbags), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting procedures.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, fluid checks), tune-ups, engine overhaul, transmission repair and rebuild, brake system service and repair, suspension component replacement, steering system service, electrical system diagnostics and repair, HVAC system service, body panel repair and alignment, interior component removal and installation, troubleshooting of common drivability and electrical issues, diagnostic procedures using OBD-II.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to in-depth component repair, diagnostics, and system overhauls. Includes detailed technical specifications, torque values, and diagnostic flowcharts.

Diagnostics Coverage:

Includes detailed information on using BMW's OBD-II scanner (e.g., GT1/DIS) for reading diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), live data streaming, and performing actuator tests. Covers troubleshooting common fault codes.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary software format, likely viewable with specific software or as a PDF compilation.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital, high-resolution diagrams and text)

Binding Type:

N/A (Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

Searchability:

Software typically offers advanced search functionality, allowing users to quickly locate specific topics, procedures, or part numbers.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

M44B19

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve

Displacement:

1.9 Liters (1895 cc)

Horsepower:

138 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

133 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm

Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic M5.2)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium (91 octane recommended)

Engine Management System:

Bosch Motronic M5.2

Engine Codes:

M44B19

Emission Control System:

Catalytic converter, Oxygen sensors, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system (depending on market).

Cooling System Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with electric fan.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual Getrag S5D-250G

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic ZF 4HP22EH

Transmission Features:

Rear-wheel drive layout, clutch type (manual): dry single plate, transmission fluid type (automatic): ATF Dexron III.

Differential Type:

Open differential (standard). Limited-slip differential (LSD) was an option on some models/markets.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

165.4 inches (4200 mm)

Width:

67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

54.7 inches (1390 mm)

Wheelbase:

101.2 inches (2570 mm)

Curb Weight Manual:

2976 lbs (1350 kg)

Curb Weight Automatic:

3076 lbs (1395 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4000 lbs (1814 kg) - consult specific VIN documentation.

Towing Capacity:

Not typically rated for towing.

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 10.8 cu ft (rear seats up)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver Impact:

Likely Good (Based on E36 3-Series data, though specific 318ti rating may vary)

NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:

Likely Good (Based on E36 3-Series data)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), optional Traction Control System (ASC+T).

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners, reinforced safety cell construction.

Front Brakes:

Ventilated discs

Rear Brakes:

Solid discs

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional CD player. Available premium sound system.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS standard, optional Traction Control System (ASC+T). No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist.

Connectivity Options:

Limited to factory radio and optional CD changer. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity in stock form.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (dependent on driving conditions and oil quality).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 60,000 miles (check manual for specific type and gap).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-98 approved synthetic oil, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended. Capacity: 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts).

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48), a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II/III or Pentosin CHF 11S (verify specific type).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

MTF LT-1 or equivalent (e.g., Red Line MTL 75W-80 GL-4).

Known Issues:

Cracking of the original plastic expansion tank, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) unit issues, heater control valve failure, rear trailing arm bushings wear, ABS sensor failure, coolant expansion tank leaks.

Oil Filter Part Number:

OEM: 11 42 1 730 330 (Example - always verify)

Air Filter Part Number:

OEM: 13 72 1 730 945 (Example - always verify)

Maintenance Schedule Overview:

Detailed schedules for 15,000-mile intervals are typically outlined, covering inspections, fluid changes, filter replacements, and component checks. The manual will provide the most accurate, market-specific schedule.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, boasts a long history of engineering excellence, performance, and luxury in the automotive industry, dating back to the early 20th century. Known for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan.

Model Evolution:

The 318ti is a variant of the E36 generation 3 Series, specifically the 'Compact' model. It was BMW's first foray into the compact premium hatchback segment, offering a shorter wheelbase and unique styling based on the 3 Series platform.

Production Years:

1994-2000 (E36 Compact)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (primarily Regensburg)

Model Designation:

The 'ti' designation historically stood for 'Touring International' or 'Tourismo Internazionale' in BMW parlance, indicating a sportier or touring variant. In the case of the 318ti, it signified its compact, sporty hatchback nature.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While the 318ti itself may not have specific standalone awards, the E36 generation consistently received praise for its driving dynamics and chassis refinement. It was a significant product in BMW's history for expanding its market reach.