🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Variant:

318i

Chassis Code:

E36

Engine Code Primary:

M43B18

Engine Code Secondary:

M43B19 (later years may have this in some markets)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops seeking detailed E36 318i information

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi 80/A4 (B4/B5), Lexus ES300, Acura Integra

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides in-depth, authoritative repair and maintenance data crucial for preserving and servicing the E36 318i.

Vehicle Appeal:

Known for balanced handling, build quality, and a comfortable yet engaging driving experience.

📋 Manual Details

Markets Covered:

Global (primarily European and North American specifications for the E36 chassis)

Total Pages:

759

Type:

Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Full Engine Overhaul, Component Diagnostics, Timing, Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic), Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System

Transmission:

Manual Gearbox (Getrag 240), Automatic Transmission (GM 4L30-E), Clutch System, Drive Axles

Brakes:

Front Disc Brakes (Ventilated), Rear Disc Brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) Operation and Diagnostics, Parking Brake

Suspension:

Front McPherson Struts, Rear Multi-link Suspension (Z-axle), Bushings, Shock Absorbers, Springs

Steering:

Power Steering System, Steering Gearbox, Steering Column

Electrical:

12V Electrical System, Battery, Charging System (Alternator), Starter Motor, Lighting Systems (Headlights, Tail Lights, Interior), Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams, Engine Control Unit (ECU) Signals

Body Chassis:

Body Panel Removal/Installation, Door Mechanisms, Trunk/Boot, Hood/Bonnet, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Seats, Safety Belts

Climate Control:

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) System Operation, Component Replacement, Refrigerant Handling (Cautionary Notes)

Maintenance:

Routine Service, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Tensioning, Brake Fluid Flush, Coolant Flush

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Procedures for Engine Performance Issues, Electrical Faults, Transmission Problems, and Component Failures

Repair:

Component Disassembly and Reassembly, Major Component Overhauls (Engine, Transmission), Bodywork Repairs, Electrical Component Replacement

Installation:

Component Installation Guides, Timing Belt/Chain Replacement Procedures, Suspension Component Installation

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance, advanced diagnostics, component-level repair, and full rebuild procedures.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, OBD-I/OBD-II (where applicable to model year) code interpretation, sensor data analysis

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities and types, electrical specifications

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable (depending on PDF origin)

Printability:

Printable pages for on-the-go reference

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-Cylinder

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1796 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 81.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1 or 9.1:1 (depending on market and specific M43 variant)

Valve Train:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 16 Valves

Horsepower Hp:

Approximately 115-118 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque Lb-Ft:

Approximately 122-124 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type Recommended:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

ECU Type:

Bosch Motronic (e.g., M1.7, M1.7.2)

🔧 Transmission

Type Standard:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag 240)

Type Optional:

4-Speed Automatic (GM 4L30-E)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically Actuated Single Plate Dry Clutch

Automatic Features:

Lock-up Torque Converter, Electronic Controls (later models)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Inches:

106.1

Length Inches:

174.5 - 175.2 (depending on body style)

Width Inches:

67.3

Height Inches:

54.1 - 54.5

Curb Weight Lbs:

Approximately 3000 - 3200 lbs (depending on body style and transmission)

🛡️ Safety Features

IIHS Front Impact:

Good (for its era, though modern testing standards differ)

ABS:

Standard on most models within this range

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag standard; Passenger airbag optional/standard on later models

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Radio Options:

Factory AM/FM cassette or CD players with optional premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon).

Display:

Basic digital display for climate control and radio information.

Cruise Control:

Optional

Traction Control:

Optional (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control + Traction)

OBD Port:

OBD-I connector early model years, transitioning to OBD-II 16-pin connector later in the E36 lifecycle.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Approximately 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12-15,000 km, or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions)

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type specified)

Coolant Flush:

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

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3)

Engine Oil Capacity Liters:

Approx. 4.25 Liters (with filter change)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 Gear Oil (specific viscosity recommended in manual)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III/VI ATF

Cooling System:

Plastic expansion tank prone to cracking, water pump failure (plastic impeller), thermostat housing leaks.

Suspension:

Wear on control arm bushings ('bushings'), rear trailing arm bushings, shock absorber failure.

Electrical:

Vanos (Variable Valve Timing) issues (though less common on the 4-cyl than 6-cyl), fuel pump relay failure, ABS sensor failure.

Engine M43:

Head gasket leaks (less common than M50/M52), oil separator issues (PCV system).

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Sheer Driving Pleasure, focus on driver engagement and engineering prowess

E36 Introduction:

The E36 generation replaced the E30 in 1990 (Europe) and 1991 (North America), offering significant improvements in chassis dynamics, comfort, and safety.

318I Positioning:

The 318i served as the entry-level model in the E36 lineup, offering a balance of BMW's renowned driving dynamics with a more economical powertrain.

Production Years E36:

1990-2000 (sedan/coupe/convertible), 1993-1999 (touring), 1992-1999 (compact)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing, Regensburg), South Africa, Austria, Thailand

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Best:

E36 3 Series often featured on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production run.

Consumer Reports:

Generally rated as reliable for its era, with specific model year strengths and weaknesses.