🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Product Name:

BMW 318i, 323i, 325i, 328i, M3 Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Chassis Codes:

E36

Engine Codes 318I:

M43B18, M44B19

Engine Codes 323I:

M52B25

Engine Codes 325I:

M50B25

Engine Codes 328I:

M52B28

Engine Codes M3:

S50B30US, S50B32US, S52B32

Generation Designation:

E36

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, BMW owners seeking in-depth knowledge

Value Proposition:

Provides the same detailed information found in dealership-level technical manuals, enabling comprehensive self-service

Competitor Manuals:

Covers a broad range of E36 models and engine variants, often superior to condensed or generic manuals

Key Selling Points:

Extensive coverage, detailed illustrations, troubleshooting guides, up-to-date technical data

📋 Manual Details

Covered Years:

1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999

Covered Models:

318i, 323i, 325i, 328i, M3 (coupe, sedan, convertible, touring)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full rebuild procedures, timing, valve adjustments, piston/ring installation, crankshaft, connecting rods, cylinder head

Engine Management:

Fuel injection systems (Bosch Motronic), ignition systems, sensors, ECUs, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Transmission Manual:

Clutch replacement, gearbox overhaul, shift linkage, fluid changes

Transmission Automatic:

Identification of ZF automatic transmissions, fluid changes, solenoid testing, troubleshooting

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, CV joints, differential maintenance and repair, rear axle assembly

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension component replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), alignment specifications

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack overhaul, tie rod ends, steering column

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS components, disc brake replacement (pads, rotors), caliper servicing, brake fluid specifications

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams (schematics)

Body And Chassis:

Panel replacement, door mechanisms, exterior trim, interior trim removal, convertible top mechanisms (if applicable)

Heating And Air Conditioning:

HVAC system diagnostics, refrigerant handling, blower motor, evaporator, condenser servicing

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank, evaporative emissions control (EVAP)

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications, bleed procedures

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter, mufflers, exhaust pipes, oxygen sensors

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, belt tensioning, fluid checks and top-offs

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation

Repair Procedures:

Detailed, illustrated instructions for component replacement and repair across all major vehicle systems

Diagnostic Procedures:

Procedures for using diagnostic tools, interpreting scan data, and performing system tests

Installation Procedures:

Guidance for installing aftermarket parts or replacing major components

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, from basic preventative maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostics, including electrical tracing, sensor testing, and actuator activation

Torque Specifications:

All critical torque specifications for engine, chassis, and drivetrain components

Technical Drawings:

Includes exploded views and diagrams for component identification and assembly

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text content for quick information retrieval

Printability:

Printable pages for hands-on workshop use

Image Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams and images for clarity

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code E.G. M43B18:

M43B18 / M44B19

Displacement 318I:

1.8L (1796 cc) / 1.9L (1895 cc)

Horsepower 318I:

Approx. 113-138 hp (depending on exact engine and market)

Torque 318I:

Approx. 120-130 lb-ft (depending on exact engine and market)

Engine Code E.G. M52B25:

M52B25

Displacement 323I:

2.5L (2494 cc)

Horsepower 323I:

Approx. 168-170 hp

Torque 323I:

Approx. 181 lb-ft

Engine Code E.G. M50B25:

M50B25

Displacement 325I:

2.5L (2494 cc)

Horsepower 325I:

Approx. 189-192 hp

Torque 325I:

Approx. 181-184 lb-ft

Engine Code E.G. M52B28:

M52B28

Displacement 328I:

2.8L (2793 cc)

Horsepower 328I:

Approx. 190-193 hp

Torque 328I:

Approx. 206 lb-ft

Engine Code E.G. S50B30Us:

S50B30US (95), S50B32US (96-99), S52B32 (96-99)

Displacement M3:

3.0L (2990 cc) / 3.2L (3152 cc) / 3.2L (3201 cc)

Horsepower M3:

Approx. 240 hp (S50B30US), 290 hp (S50B32US), 240 hp (S52B32)

Torque M3:

Approx. 225 lb-ft (S50B30US), 236 lb-ft (S50B32US), 236 lb-ft (S52B32)

Fuel Injection Type:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI), Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Grade Recommendation:

Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended for most models, especially M3)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual (Getrag 260/5, Getrag 250G for some later models)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22 EH) / 5-speed automatic (ZF 5HP18, ZF 5HP30 for some models)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate clutch

Differential:

Limited Slip Differential (LSD) available as an option on many models, standard on M3

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 106.1 inches (2695 mm)

Length:

Approx. 174.5 - 179.7 inches (4432 - 4565 mm) depending on body style

Width:

Approx. 67.3 - 69.4 inches (1710 - 1763 mm)

Height:

Approx. 54.6 - 55.9 inches (1387 - 1420 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3100 - 3500 lbs (1406 - 1588 kg) depending on model and equipment

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 15.5 cu ft (439 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Variable by model year and specific test; generally good for its era

ABS:

Standard on most models

Traction Control:

Available on higher-end models and M3

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory BMW audio systems, optional CD players, cassette decks, upgraded speakers

Navigation:

Optional BMW Business or Professional Navigation systems available on later models

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional depending on trim and market

Parking Sensors:

Rarely equipped from factory on this generation

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually (check manual for specific model year and oil type)

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on fuel quality and model

Coolant Flush:

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

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years

Transmission Fluid Change Auto:

Often cited as 'lifetime' but recommended every 60,000 - 100,000 miles

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) or API SJ/SL, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 depending on climate. Check manual for precise spec.

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Power Steering Fluid (P/N 81 22 9 407 765) or Pentosin CHF 11 S

Common E36 Issues:

Cooling system failures (plastic expansion tanks, water pumps), VANOS seal wear (M50/M52 engines), subframe cracks, sagging headliner, microfilter housing water ingress, "death rattle" from timing chain tensioner (especially on M52).

Recommended Spark Plugs 318I:

NGK BKR6E (M43) or BKR5E (M44)

Recommended Spark Plugs 325I 328I M3:

NGK BKR6EK or BKR5EK (check manual for specific engine)

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long history of producing driver-focused, sporty sedans and coupes known for their engineering and performance.

E36 Introduction:

The E36 generation of the 3 Series replaced the E30 in 1990 (in Europe) and 1991 (in North America), marking a significant leap in styling, technology, and chassis dynamics.

E36 Lineup Expansion:

The E36 saw the introduction of the 323i and 328i models, expanding the range and introducing the M52 engine in later years. The M3 variant became a benchmark for performance sedans.

Production Years E36:

1990-2000 (Global, with North America receiving models from 1991-1999 for the sedan/coupe/convertible)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), with some assembly in other locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The 3 Series, particularly the 325i and M3 variants, were frequently lauded by publications like Car and Driver, often appearing on their '10Best' lists for their driving dynamics and performance.

Driving Dynamics Reputation:

Universally praised for sharp handling, responsive steering, and a balanced chassis.

Build Quality:

Renowned for solid build quality and premium interior materials for its era.