Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Philosophy:
BMW's focus on driving dynamics, performance, and premium quality
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus ES, Acura TL
Driving Dynamics:
Rear-wheel drive bias, balanced chassis, direct steering
Engine Performance:
Smooth and powerful inline-six engine
Build Quality:
Renowned BMW build quality and materials
Target Audience:
BMW enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, independent repair shops
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs, saving on labor costs and ensuring proper upkeep.
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive Service, Repair, and Maintenance
Secondary Coverage:
Diagnostics, Electrical Schematics, Troubleshooting
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (M52B28), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (manual & automatic), Drivetrain Components, Differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), Steering System, Braking System, Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Complete Electrical System Schematics, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Distribution
Body:
Body Structure, Exterior Panels, Interior Trim, HVAC System
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug service, fluid checks and changes
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head repair, piston and connecting rod service, timing belt/chain replacement (if applicable)
Transmission Service:
Transmission fluid and filter change, clutch replacement, automatic transmission overhaul
Brake System Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake fluid flush, caliper and master cylinder repair
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Shock absorber and strut replacement, control arm bushing replacement, power steering system service
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults, component testing, wiring harness repair
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, component testing procedures
Depth:
Expert Level - Suitable for Professional Mechanics and Advanced DIYers
Scope:
Full Mechanical and Electrical Repair, Major Overhauls, Component Rebuilding
Configuration:
Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2793 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 91.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valve Train:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 Valves per Cylinder
Horsepower:
190 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
206 lb-ft (280 Nm) @ 3950 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Type:
5-Speed Manual Getrag S5D 250G
Type:
5-Speed Automatic Steptronic (GM A5S 310Z)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic Actuated Single Dry Plate
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF DEXTRON III or equivalent (check manual for specific BMW part number)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-2 or DEXTRON III/Mercon (check manual for specific BMW part number)
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
4-Star Driver, 4-Star Passenger
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Optional (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control plus Traction)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Optional premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon), CD player, cassette deck.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system (MK I or MK II).
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Bluetooth:
Not available from the factory on this model year.
HVAC System:
Automatic climate control with manual or electronic operation depending on trim level.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system if equipped and properly functioning.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically 60,000 miles (platinum-tipped spark plugs).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-40,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-98 specification recommended, consult manual for exact BMW part number)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US quarts)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 formulation or equivalent - 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (BMW Super HD Brake Fluid or equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent - check manual)
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack, leading to leaks. Water pump and thermostat failures are also common.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal can leak over time.
Suspension Components:
Worn control arm bushings (often referred to as 'BMW bushes' or 'RTABs' for rear trailing arm bushings), ball joints, and tie rod ends are common due to age and mileage.
Electrical System:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor issues, ABS/DSC sensor failures, and window regulator failures can occur.
Vanos System:
Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) solenoids and seals can wear, leading to rough idle and reduced performance. The manual will detail testing and repair.
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, engineering excellence, performance innovation
E36 Generation:
Third generation of the 3 Series, launched in 1990.
328I Positioning:
Replaced the 325i as the higher-performance six-cylinder model in North America for 1996.
Production Period:
1995-1999 (for 328i models in North America)
Assembly Plant:
Germany (various plants)
