Segment:
Compact executive sedan/coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, owners seeking to maintain or restore their E36 318i
Competitors 1993:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Lexus ES250, Acura Vigor
Bmw Philosophy:
Sporty handling, driver-focused ergonomics, build quality
Value:
Enables comprehensive DIY maintenance and repair, saving on labor costs and preserving vehicle integrity
General Coverage:
Comprehensive repair, maintenance, rebuilding, refurbishing, and restoration
Diagnostic Coverage:
Detailed diagnostic procedures
Estimated Pages:
Over 1000 (estimated for a comprehensive manual of this type)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, based on common offerings)
Engine:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission overhaul and repair
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differentials, axle shafts, CV joints
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings
Steering:
Steering system components, power steering, steering rack
Brakes:
Brake system components, hydraulic systems, ABS (if equipped), brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, fuses, relays
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, exterior trim, interior trim, HVAC system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks
Repair:
Component-level repair and replacement for all covered systems
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic flowcharts
Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds
Restoration:
Guidance applicable to vehicle restoration projects
Depth:
In-depth, professional-level technical information suitable for experienced DIYers and professional mechanics
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1796 cc (1.8 Liters)
Horsepower Ps:
113 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque Nm:
170 Nm @ 4250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (MFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 RON recommended)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless ignition system (DIS) or distributor-based, depending on specific market build
Coolant Type:
BMW Premium Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based, blue color) or equivalent
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting BMW Longlife-98 specification
Crash Test Ratings:
Limited specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for this exact year/model; general E36 platform robustness
Active Safety:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard on most models
Passive Safety:
Driver and front passenger airbags, reinforced safety cell construction, collapsible steering column
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette player, optional CD player, premium sound system options
On Board Computer:
Optional OBC with functions like MPG, range, average speed, outside temperature
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control system
Traction Control:
Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction)
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on core vehicle functions and driver interface
Oil Change Interval:
10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months (depending on driving conditions and oil used)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific interval, typically 60,000 miles for standard plugs
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: As needed, check for leaks. Automatic: 30,000-60,000 miles
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 synthetic brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid or Pentosin CHF 11S (verify specific requirement)
Differential Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (GL-5)
Common Issues Engine:
Vibration issues from engine mounts, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), cooling system component failure (water pump, thermostat)
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, strut mount failure, rear shock absorber leaks
Common Issues Electrical:
Window regulator failure, OBC (On-Board Computer) pixelation, ABS sensor failure
Bmw Legacy:
Renowned for performance, engineering, and driver engagement since its inception
E36 Generation:
The E36 generation (1990-1999) represented a significant evolution in BMW's 3 Series, introducing advanced chassis dynamics and styling
318I Positioning:
Positioned as the entry-level model in the E36 lineup, offering BMW's signature handling at a more accessible price point
Production Start:
1990 (E36 generation)
Production End:
1999 (E36 generation)
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The E36 chassis, including the 318i, was a recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run, highlighting its chassis dynamics and overall execution.
Vehicle Dynamics Rating:
Highly praised for its balance, steering feel, and ride quality by automotive journalists of the era.
