Positioning:
The BMW 3 Series (E36) in 1994 represented a significant step forward in design and engineering for BMW's compact executive sedan and coupe segment.
Target Audience:
Targeted at premium buyers seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and sporty handling.
Competitors:
Competed directly with the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and Lexus ES series.
Design:
Evolved aerodynamic styling, improved interior comfort, and advanced chassis dynamics compared to its E30 predecessor.
Performance:
The introduction of the M50-derived M52 engine in the 328i brought increased power and refinement.
Powertrain:
Comprehensive coverage of engine, transmission, drivetrain components.
Chassis:
Detailed information on suspension, steering, brakes, and wheel alignment.
Electrical:
Extensive wiring diagrams, component testing, and diagnostic procedures for all electrical systems.
Body And Trim:
Covers exterior panels, interior components, glass, and seals.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks, belt inspection and replacement.
Engine Repair:
Complete overhaul procedures, head gasket replacement, timing chain/belt service, component testing.
Transmission Repair:
Detailed instructions for both manual and automatic transmission service, including clutch replacement and torque converter procedures.
Brake System Service:
Disc and drum brake servicing, caliper and cylinder replacement, brake fluid bleeding, ABS system troubleshooting.
Suspension And Steering Overhaul:
Replacement of ball joints, tie rod ends, control arms, shocks, struts, and power steering system service.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic trees, fault code interpretation, component testing, and repair of wiring harness issues.
Climate Control Service:
AC system diagnosis and repair, heater core replacement, blower motor service.
Depth:
Comprehensive diagnostic and repair procedures, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIYers.
Specifications:
Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and electrical resistance values.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic fault finding procedures for common and complex issues.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24-valve
Displacement:
2793 cc (2.8 Liters)
Horsepower:
190 hp @ 5300 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
206 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane recommended)
Ignition System:
Distributorless ignition system (DIS)
Emissions Control:
Catalytic converter, secondary air injection (California models)
Type:
Getrag 5-speed manual transmission
Type:
ZF 4-speed automatic transmission
Rear Axle:
Limited-slip differential (LSD) often optional or standard on certain trims.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW Synchromesh Fluid (e.g., Pentosin MTF LT-2) or equivalent GL-4 rated gear oil.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (BMW pn 83 22 9 407 858)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) - (May vary slightly by test date and specific vehicle configuration)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Automatic Stability Control (ASC) or ASC+T (Traction Control).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front-belt tensioners.
Audio System:
Standard cassette player with AM/FM radio. Optional CD player, often integrated with the radio or as a separate changer. Basic speaker configurations.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
No factory parking sensors or rearview cameras.
Connectivity:
Limited to basic audio inputs; no Bluetooth or USB connectivity.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Check Engine Oil Service light (CC/OK system).
Spark Plugs:
Every 60,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 50,000-100,000 miles (or as per service indicator). Manual: Check for leaks, no regular interval unless issues arise.
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 compliant synthetic oil, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended. Refer to manual for exact specifications.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 4 PLUS approved brake fluid.
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tanks are prone to cracking; water pump impellers can degrade; thermostat housing leaks. Regular inspection is crucial.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing gasket are common leak points.
Suspension:
Worn front control arm bushings (RTABs), sway bar links, and rear shock mounts are frequent replacements.
Electrical:
ABS/DSC sensors, mass airflow sensor (MAF), and instrument cluster (pixelation) can fail.
Interior:
Headliner sagging, door panel delamination, and worn driver's seat bolsters are common wear items.
Heritage:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, sporty luxury vehicles since its inception.
E36 Generation:
The E36 generation, launched in 1990, marked a significant departure from the E30 with a more modern chassis, improved aerodynamics, and a wider range of engine options.
328I Introduction:
The 328i replaced the 325i in the North American market for the 1996 model year (though the 328 designation was used for some export models earlier). This manual covers the 1994 model year which may have had different engine designations or specifications depending on market. For North America, the 1994 model would be the 325i. This manual is specifically for a 1994 328/328i which implies an international market or a later introduction of the M52 engine to that year in specific regions. The M50B25 engine was prevalent in the 1994 325i.
Production Years:
E36 production spanned from 1990 to 2000. The 328i variant was primarily produced from 1995-1999 in North America.
Car And Driver:
The E36 3 Series, including variants like the 328i, frequently appeared on Car and Driver's Ten Best lists in various years for its excellent driving dynamics and value.
Consumer Reports:
Generally received good ratings for performance and handling, with some recurring notes on reliability for specific components like cooling systems and electronics.
