Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, BMW owners seeking in-depth knowledge
Value Proposition:
Provides professional-level repair information at a fraction of the cost of dealership service or a subscription
Comprehensiveness:
Covers the entire E36 generation with detailed, factory-level data
Practicality:
Includes step-by-step instructions and diagrams essential for successful repairs
Engine Variety:
Addresses the diverse range of engines offered during the E36's production run
Vehicle Coverage:
All 1992-1998 BMW 3 Series models (E36 chassis)
Engine Coverage:
M40, M42, M43, M50, M52, S50, S52 engines
Body Styles Covered:
Sedan (E36/3), Coupe (E36/2), Convertible (E36/3C), Touring (E36/3T), Hatchback (E36/5 - 318ti)
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, timing, lubrication, cooling system
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection systems (DME), starter, alternator, sensors
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shifting mechanisms, driveshafts
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission overhaul, electronic control, fluid changes
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, parking brake
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, battery, fuses, relays, comfort electronics
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system, refrigerant recharge, component replacement
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, seats, trim, bumpers
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, brake inspections
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
System-specific fault finding, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, component testing
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation
Component Replacement:
Replacement of common wear items and major components
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Tools:
Information relevant to using OBD-I and early OBD-II diagnostic tools, and specialized BMW tools
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners
Diagrams Illustrations:
Step-by-step diagrams and exploded views for clarity
Engine Examples:
318i (M43/M40), 320i (M50), 323i (M52), 325i (M50/M52), 328i (M52), M3 (S50/S52)
Horsepower Range:
113 hp (318i) to 321 hp (M3 Euro-spec)
Torque Range:
140 Nm (318i) to 320 Nm (M3 Euro-spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Premium recommended)
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder (except M40 SOHC)
NHTSA Ratings:
Variable, often showing good frontal crash protection for its era
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on some early models
Traction Control:
Optional on some models (ASC+T)
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard, passenger airbag optional on later models
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts, pre-tensioners on front belts
Oil Change Interval:
Variable, typically 7,500-10,000 miles or 12-15,000 km, or as indicated by the car's service indicator.
Spark Plug Replacement:
60,000 miles for standard plugs; 100,000 miles for long-life plugs (e.g., platinum/iridium)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-40,000 miles
Engine Oil Spec:
BMW Longlife-98 or Longlife-01 (5W-30, 5W-40) depending on exact engine and climate. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Coolant Spec:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Common Problems:
Cooling system failures (plastic expansion tank, water pump, hoses), VANOS seal failure (M50/M52), subframe bushings, blower motor resistor, door panel vapor barrier leaks
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter housing gasket
Bmw Philosophy:
The E36 embodied BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos with a focus on handling and driver engagement.
Predecessor:
E30 3 Series
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), South Africa, Austria, Mexico, Thailand
Sales Figures:
Over 1.5 million units produced globally
