Covered Models:
318i, 323i, 325i, 328i, M3
Product Name:
BMW 318i, 323i, 325i, 328i, M3 Service Repair Manual 1992-1999
Engine Codes:
M43B18, M52B25, M52B28, S50B30/B32 (Euro), S52B30/B32 (US)
Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, independent repair shops
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus IS200, Alfa Romeo 155
Handling:
Renowned for its exceptional handling, balance, and driver engagement
Powertrain:
Smooth inline-6 engines (323i, 325i, 328i, M3) and capable 4-cylinder (318i), offering a blend of performance and efficiency
Build Quality:
Typical BMW build quality and driver-focused interior design
Engine:
Engine mechanicals, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (DME), ignition, emissions, timing, starting, charging, engine management diagnostics
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Getrag 260, ZF S5D 320Z, etc.), Automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22, GM 4L30-E), clutch system, driveshafts, differential
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake, disc/drum brake components, rotor/pad replacement, caliper service
Suspension Steering:
Front/rear suspension (MacPherson struts, multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, power steering system, steering rack, wheel alignment
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting systems, instruments, fuses, relays, comfort electronics, EWS (Electronic Immobilizer System)
Body:
Body structure, exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), convertible top mechanisms (if applicable)
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Component removal and installation, rebuild procedures for major systems, component-specific repair instructions
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) system interpretation, DME fault codes, ABS fault codes, sensor testing, actuator testing
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics, including component-level testing and troubleshooting of complex electronic systems
Rebuild Information:
Comprehensive engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including torque specifications and clearances
Electrical Diagrams:
Detailed, high-resolution wiring diagrams for all vehicle electrical systems
318I Engine:
M43B18 (1.8L Inline-4 DOHC)
318I Horsepower:
113-115 hp @ 5500 rpm
318I Torque:
130-133 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm
323I Engine:
M52B25 (2.5L Inline-6 DOHC)
323I Horsepower:
168-170 hp @ 5500 rpm
323I Torque:
181-184 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm
325I Engine:
M50B25 (2.5L Inline-6 DOHC)
325I Horsepower:
189-192 hp @ 6000 rpm
325I Torque:
181-184 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
328I Engine:
M52B28 (2.8L Inline-6 DOHC)
328I Horsepower:
190-193 hp @ 5300 rpm
328I Torque:
203-207 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm
M3 Engine Usdm:
S52B32 (3.2L Inline-6 DOHC)
M3 Horsepower Usdm:
240 hp @ 6000 rpm
M3 Torque Usdm:
236 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
M3 Engine Euro:
S50B30/S50B32 (3.0L/3.2L Inline-6 DOHC)
M3 Horsepower Euro:
211-321 hp (depending on specific S50 variant)
M3 Torque Euro:
214-325 lb-ft (depending on specific S50 variant)
Engine Management:
Bosch Motronic (specific version varies by engine and year)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91-93 octane recommended)
NHTSA Ratings:
Varied by model year and testing protocols, generally good for its era
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) available on select models/years
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (or as indicated by the Condition Based Service - CBS system, if equipped)
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles
Brake Fluid Change Interval:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil (meeting BMW LL-98 specifications)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Dexron III/Mercon ATF or equivalent for the Getrag gearbox, specific synthetic gear oil for ZF transmissions
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III/Mercon ATF (ZF 4HP22 EH), LT-71141 synthetic ATF (GM 4L30-E)
Cooling System Failures:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks, water pumps, and radiator end tanks are prone to cracking and failure.
Burs:
Cracked plastic intake manifolds (M50/M52 engines) can cause vacuum leaks and performance issues.
Suspension Components:
Worn control arm bushings (bushings often fail), rear trailing arm bushings, and shock absorbers.
Window Regulators:
Plastic components in window regulators can break, leading to windows falling into doors.
Heater Core:
Heater core leaks are common, often requiring dashboard removal for replacement.
Oil Pan Gasket:
Oil pan gasket leaks are common due to age and material degradation.
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, emphasis on performance, handling, and driver engagement
E36 Introduction:
Introduced in 1990 (as a 1991 model in North America), replacing the E30 3 Series. Known for its significant chassis improvements and modern design.
Mid Cycle Updates:
Facelifted in 1995 (for 1996 model year) with updated styling, interior refinements, and powertrain changes (e.g., introduction of M52 engines).
Production Years:
1992-1999 (for the North American market, slightly earlier in Europe)
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan, 2-door Coupe, 2-door Convertible, 3-door Hatchback (318ti Compact)
