🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

328i

Year:

1993

Chassis Code:

E36

Engine Code Primary:

M52B28 (though often associated with the M50B28, the 328i designation specifically points to the M52 variant, which was introduced later in the E36 lifecycle and may have been retroactively applied or available in certain markets for 1993. The earlier 325i used the M50B25. For 1993 specifically, it's critical to confirm market and exact production date for M52 or M50 derivatives. For the sake of this manual's likely coverage, it would encompass the 2.8L engine variant of the E36 3-Series.)

👋 Introduction

Positioning E36:

The E36 3-Series was BMW's core sport sedan offering, known for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and upscale feel. The 328i represented a step up in performance from the 325i, bridging the gap to the M3.

Competitors 1993:

Audi 90/A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Lexus ES300, Infiniti J30, Acura Legend.

Vehicle Highlights:

The 1993 BMW 328i offered a refined driving experience with a potent inline-six engine, sophisticated multi-link rear suspension, and a driver-focused interior. It was a benchmark in the premium compact executive segment.

Why Buy This Manual:

This comprehensive manual is indispensable for owners seeking to maintain, repair, and restore their classic E36 328i. It provides the detailed technical information necessary to perform tasks accurately and efficiently, saving money and preserving the vehicle's integrity.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Complete service, repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting for the 1993 BMW 328i (E36).

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1500

Type:

Full Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system, exhaust system.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starter system, charging system, ECU (DME - Digital Motor Electronics), sensors, actuators, wiring diagrams.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (Getrag S5D 250G), Automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22 EH), clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), hydraulic system, parking brake.

Suspension:

Front McPherson strut suspension, rear multi-link suspension, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, anti-roll bars.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column.

Electrical System:

Lighting system, power windows, central locking, power mirrors, instrument cluster, HVAC controls, audio system, fuse box, relay assignments, body control modules.

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion protection.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, belt inspection and replacement, differential fluid change, transmission fluid change.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-I for this era), symptom-based diagnostics.

Repair:

Engine rebuilds (top-end and bottom-end), transmission overhaul, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic steps for all major systems, including specific procedures for DME and ABS systems.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive: from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic flows and wiring schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text (OCR'd where applicable)

Print Recommendation:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual sections or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, naturally aspirated

Displacement Liters:

2.8

Engine Code Historical:

M52B28 (primarily, although early production may have seen M50 variants or confusion with 325i's M50B25)

Horsepower Hp:

Approx. 190-193 hp @ 5500 rpm (depending on specific market and engine tuning)

Torque Lb Ft:

Approx. 206-210 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm (depending on specific market and engine tuning)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (Multi-point injection)

Fuel Type Required:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil-pack ignition

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent Ethylene Glycol based with corrosion inhibitors)

Oil Type Recommended:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (refer to manual for exact BMW LL-XX specification compliance)

Oil Capacity Quarts:

Approx. 6.5 quarts (6.0 liters) with filter change

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag S5D 250G)

Transmission Type Opt:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 4HP22 EH)

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary by application, but typically include a close ratio setup focused on sporty driving.

Automatic Features:

Electronic control, Sport mode selection.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 or GL-5 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90, check manual for specific BMW approved fluid)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III (or equivalent ATF specification)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate

Drive Type:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Inches:

Approx. 106.0

Length Inches:

Approx. 174.5

Width Inches:

Approx. 68.5

Height Inches:

Approx. 54.5

Curb Weight Lbs:

Approx. 3200-3300

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs:

Consult vehicle sticker/manual

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm

Standard Tire Size:

205/60R15 (may vary by trim/options, 225/55R15 optional on some models)

Standard Wheel Size:

15 x 7.0 inches (may vary)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

Generally considered good for its era; specific ratings may vary by year and testing protocol. The E36 had significant structural improvements over its predecessor.

IIHS Ratings:

Likely 'Good' or 'Acceptable' in frontal crash tests based on contemporary testing.

ABS:

Standard (Bosch 3-channel ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional (ASC - Automatic Stability Control on some models)

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag standard, passenger airbag optional on early models, standard on later models.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners (front)

Chassis Design:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

BMW Business CD or Bavaria C Cassette stereo, with optional CD changer.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control (HCC - Hydraulic Climate Control).

Cruise Control:

Standard

Onboard Computer:

Check Control system with basic diagnostics and service interval monitoring.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Miles:

Typically 7,500-10,000 miles or 12-18 months (using synthetic oil and proper oil filter). Check onboard computer (CC - Check Control) for specific recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement Interval Miles:

20,000-30,000 miles, or as needed based on inspection.

Fuel Filter Replacement Interval Miles:

30,000-40,000 miles, or as needed.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval Miles:

Approx. 50,000-60,000 miles for platinum-tipped plugs (if equipped), or 30,000 miles for standard copper plugs.

Coolant Flush Interval Miles:

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

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (or DOT 3 if specified by BMW for ABS compatibility, always use BMW branded or equivalent)

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW approved hydraulic fluid (refer to manual for specific type)

Coolant Capacity Quarts:

Approx. 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters)

Common E36 Issues:

Cooling system failures (plastic expansion tank, water pump, hoses), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) seal degradation, subframe mount fatigue, window regulator failures, rear shock mount cracking, differential output seal leaks.

Specific 328I Issues:

VANOS rattle on startup, potential for oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets due to age.

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

Mann-Filter HU 831, Mahle OX 35D (verify with exact VIN)

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused sports sedans and coupes, emphasizing performance, handling, and quality engineering.

E36 Generation:

The E36 generation succeeded the E30 and was produced from 1990 to 2000. It marked a significant evolution in design, technology, and refinement for the 3-Series line.

328I Introduction:

The 328i designation became prominent in the E36 lineup as BMW transitioned from the M20 and M50 engines to the newer M52 engine family, offering increased displacement and improved efficiency/performance.

Production Years E36:

1990-2000

Production Locations:

Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), USA (Spartanburg, SC - for specific models/later production).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E36 Generation Acclaim:

The E36 platform was widely praised for its chassis dynamics and engineering, often featured on 'best of' lists for its era.

Performance Awards:

While specific awards for the 328i variant might be less documented than the M3, the E36 chassis consistently received accolades for its handling and driver engagement from automotive publications like Car and Driver and MotorTrend.