🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

328i xDrive

Model Code:

E90/E92/E93 (Specific chassis designation for 328i xDrive will vary based on body style, but E90 sedan, E92 coupe, and E93 convertible are common for this year.)

Generation Name:

Fifth Generation BMW 3 Series (E90 Sedan, E92 Coupe, E93 Convertible)

Generation Years:

2006-2013 (for E90 sedan), 2007-2013 (for E92 coupe), 2007-2013 (for E93 convertible)

Chassis Codes Covered:

E90 (Sedan), E92 (Coupe), E93 (Convertible)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2011 BMW 328i xDrive was positioned as a premium compact executive sedan/coupe/convertible, emphasizing sportiness, luxury, and advanced technology with the added benefit of all-wheel drive for enhanced traction and stability.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed directly with models like the Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC, and Infiniti G37x. The 328i xDrive offered a strong balance of performance, handling, and premium features, often considered a benchmark in its class for driving dynamics.

Key Features:

Inline-6 engine, xDrive all-wheel drive, RWD bias for sporty handling, premium interior materials, advanced iDrive infotainment system (optional), sophisticated chassis tuning, available in sedan, coupe, and convertible body styles.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All major mechanical, electrical, and body systems; detailed diagnostic procedures; troubleshooting guides; repair and replacement steps; specifications.

Estimated Page Count:

1500+ pages (Software-based manuals are typically extensive and contain a vast amount of information, often exceeding traditional printed manuals in volume.)

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software/Digital (Likely a searchable PDF or proprietary diagnostic software interface)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical (N52B30), Engine Electrical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Intake System, Transmission (6-speed manual & 6-speed automatic xDrive), Drivetrain (xDrive All-Wheel Drive System), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS, DSC), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, ECUs), HVAC System, Body Control Modules, Chassis and Bodywork, Interior Trim, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Infotainment System.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), scheduled maintenance intervals, troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic procedures, component testing, repair and overhaul procedures for engine, transmission, AWD system, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical components, climate control, body panels, interior components, advanced diagnostic codes, reset procedures for service indicators.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to full engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and body repair. Includes detailed torque specifications, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their associated symptoms and repair strategies, wiring diagrams with component identification, and exploded views of assemblies.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely PDF with advanced search capabilities, or proprietary executable software.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital format, but implies high-resolution diagrams and text for potential printing of specific sections.)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

BMW N52B30

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder

Displacement:

2996 cc (3.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

85.0 mm x 88.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

12.0:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC with VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) and Valvetronic

Horsepower:

230 hp @ 6500 rpm

Torque:

200 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Fuel Injection (Sequential Multi-Port Injection)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)

Engine Control Unit ECU:

MSV70 / MSV80 (Specific designation may vary)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-Speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

6-Speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission with xDrive

Transmission Features:

xDrive All-Wheel Drive System with Variable Torque Distribution, Sport/Manual shift modes on automatic transmission.

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Castrol Syntrans B 75W-80)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW ATF LT-3 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF1)

Transfer Case Fluid Type:

BMW DTF-1 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin TF-0870)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase E90 Sedan:

108.7 inches (2760 mm)

Wheelbase E92 Coupe:

108.0 inches (2745 mm)

Length E90 Sedan:

180.6 inches (4587 mm)

Length E92 Coupe:

181.1 inches (4600 mm)

Width:

69.9 inches (1776 mm)

Height E90 Sedan:

56.0 inches (1425 mm)

Height E92 Coupe:

54.7 inches (1391 mm)

Cargo Volume E90 Sedan:

12.0 cubic feet (340 liters)

Cargo Volume E92 Coupe:

10.0 cubic feet (280 liters)

Curb Weight E90 Xdrive:

3615 lbs (1640 kg)

Curb Weight E92 Xdrive:

3759 lbs (1705 kg)

Wheelbase Bolt Pattern:

5x120

Standard Wheel Size:

17 inch

Standard Tire Size E90:

225/45R17

Standard Tire Size E92:

225/45R17 (front), 255/40R17 (rear) - Often staggered on Coupe/Convertible

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

Generally high ratings in IIHS and NHTSA crash tests for the E90 generation (specific year/trim may vary). Expect 5-star ratings in frontal and side impacts.

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Often achieved Top Safety Pick designation.

Active Safety Features:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Run-flat tires (standard on most models).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags (dual-stage), front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (curtains), active front head restraints, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System Name:

iDrive (various versions, likely CCC or CIC Professional Navigation System)

Infotainment Features:

Navigation system, radio (AM/FM), CD/DVD player, auxiliary audio input, optional USB interface, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, voice control.

Driver Assistance Features:

Parking sensors (PDC - Park Distance Control), rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, cruise control, optional adaptive headlights, optional comfort access (keyless entry/start).

Connectivity Options:

BMW Assist with Bluetooth and USB interface, advanced smartphone integration (via Bluetooth or optional snap-in adapter).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically based on Condition Based Service (CBS) system, recommending oil changes every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Manual provides specific guidance based on driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 30,000 miles or as indicated by CBS.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Recommended every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 60,000 miles for original plugs, or based on CBS. Manual specifies part numbers and torque specs.

Engine Oil Type And Capacity:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil, 5W-30 or 0W-30 recommended. Capacity: ~6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts).

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or similar ethylene glycol-based coolant with silicate corrosion inhibitors), 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity: ~7.5 liters (7.9 US quarts).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 High Performance Brake Fluid (BMW recommends using fluid that meets or exceeds FMVSS 116 DOT 4 standards).

Known Issues:

Valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, PCV valve issues (especially the crankcase ventilation system on the N52), water pump failure (often plastic impeller), ignition coil failures, fuel injector issues, thermostat housing leaks, VANOS solenoid issues, electric power steering pump issues (if equipped, though 2011 typically hydraulic), minor oil leaks from various seals. The manual will detail diagnostic procedures and solutions for these and many more.

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

BMW OEM: 11427541827 (example, always verify with VIN)

Air Filter Part Number Example:

BMW OEM: 13717548077 (example, always verify with VIN)

Cabin Filter Part Number Example:

BMW OEM: 64119216592 (example, always verify with VIN)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, is a German luxury vehicle and motorcycle manufacturer founded in 1916. Renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan, BMW has a long-standing reputation for performance, engineering excellence, and driver-focused vehicles.

Model Evolution:

The 3 Series is BMW's core model, first introduced in 1975. The E90 generation (2006-2013) represented a significant leap in technology and design over its E46 predecessor, featuring more sophisticated powertrains, a more refined interior, and advanced electronic systems. The 'xDrive' designation signifies the integration of BMW's intelligent all-wheel-drive system, making it a popular choice for drivers seeking enhanced stability in varying weather conditions.

Production Years E90 Generation:

2006-2013

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary production in Munich, Germany; also produced in Dingolfing, Germany, and Regensburg, Germany. Some models may have been assembled in other BMW plants globally.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The E90 generation 3 Series consistently received accolades for its driving dynamics, interior quality, and overall refinement. While specific awards for the 2011 328i xDrive might vary, the model series was frequently praised by automotive journalists and publications for its segment-leading performance and handling. It was often included on 'Best Of' lists for its class.