Vehicle Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi 80/A4 (B5), Lexus ES300, Acura TL
Brand Philosophy:
Driver-focused, sporty handling, premium build quality, technological innovation for its era
Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive diagnostic and repair information for a classic BMW model known for its engaging driving dynamics and enduring appeal.
Manual Type:
Electrical Troubleshooting Manual (ETM)
Page Count:
Varies (typical ETMs are extensive, estimated 400-600 pages)
Digital Format Features:
Searchable text, bookmarking, zoomable diagrams
Electrical Systems:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Ignition System, Fuel Injection System (DME), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Automatic Stability Control (ASC)/Traction Control, Instrument Cluster, Lighting (Headlights, Taillights, Interior), HVAC Controls, Power Windows, Power Locks, Sunroof Operation, Audio System, Cruise Control, Airbag System (SRS), Central Locking System, Wiper/Washer System, Horn, Exterior Mirrors, Seat Adjustment (Power), Warning Indicators and Lamps
Troubleshooting Charts:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common electrical faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed circuit diagrams for all major electrical systems, component location diagrams
Component Testing:
Specifications and procedures for testing sensors, actuators, relays, fuses, and wiring harnesses
Fuse Relay Identification:
Location and function of all fuses and relays with amperage ratings
Diagnostic Approach:
Systematic fault diagnosis using test equipment (multimeter, oscilloscope), interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable to the era
Repair Procedures:
Guidance on replacing faulty components, repairing damaged wiring, and ensuring proper connections
Technical Specifications:
Voltage, resistance, and current specifications for various electrical components and circuits
318I/Is:
M43B18 1.8L Inline-4
318I/Is Power:
Approx. 113 hp @ 5500 rpm
318I/Is Torque:
Approx. 170 Nm (125 lb-ft) @ 4300 rpm
320I:
M50B20 2.0L Inline-6
320I Power:
Approx. 150 hp @ 5900 rpm
320I Torque:
Approx. 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) @ 4200 rpm
325I/Is:
M50B25 2.5L Inline-6
325I/Is Power:
Approx. 189 hp @ 5900 rpm
325I/Is Torque:
Approx. 245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 4200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic DME)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (RON+MON)/95 ROZ minimum for 6-cylinder engines, 89 octane (RON+MON)/91 ROZ minimum for 4-cylinder engines
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual (Getrag 260/5 for M50 engines, Getrag 240 for M43)
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22 EH for M50 engines, ZF 4HP18EH for M43)
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate
Automatic Features:
Sport/Economy modes (on some models)
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan, 2-door Coupe, 2-door Convertible
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)
Length:
Approx. 4430-4470 mm (174.4-176.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1710-1750 mm (67.3-68.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1370-1410 mm (53.9-55.5 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1500 kg (2866-3307 lbs) depending on body style and engine
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Varies by model, typically around 1800-2000 kg
NHTSA Ratings 1995:
Not consistently rated across all body styles and model years by modern standards. Early E36 models had mixed results in available tests.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (standard on most 1995 models)
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, energy-absorbing crumple zones
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (standard on most models)
Asc:
Automatic Stability Control / Traction Control (optional on some models, standard on 325i/is in many markets)
Brakes:
Front: Ventilated discs; Rear: Solid discs
Audio System:
Factory BMW Professional or Business CD/RDS radios with optional CD changer. ETM covers wiring and troubleshooting for these units.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control) with integrated systems. ETM details HVAC electrical components.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system on many models, electronically controlled. ETM provides diagrams for operation and troubleshooting.
Diagnostic Ports:
OBD-I or early OBD-II style connector (depending on exact build date and market). ETM details diagnostic pinouts and communication protocols relevant for electrical diagnosis.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Check inspection lights (e.g., Oil Service). ETM will detail relevant sensor checks.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or approximately 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
Every 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for standard plugs, or as specified by BMW for alternative types. ETM will confirm specific system requirements.
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-98 or equivalent synthetic oil, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended (check Owner's Manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48 Ethylene Glycol based) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) brake fluid. ETM will specify if a particular type is critical for ABS/ASC.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil (check owner's manual/ETM for specific BMW oil grades like BMW MTF LT-1 or LT-2).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ZF TE-ML 11B or equivalent ATF (e.g., Dexron III). ETM will provide precise BMW fluid specifications.
Electrical Common Faults:
ABS/ASC sensor failures, VANOS solenoid issues (on M50TU/M52 engines, but relevant for later E36s), window regulator failures, central locking pump issues, blower motor resistor failure, dashboard warning light malfunctions (e.g., ABS, airbag), MAF sensor issues.
Mechanical Common Faults:
Cooling system component failure (water pump, thermostat, expansion tank), VANOS rattle (on specific engines), subframe mounting point cracks, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), differential seal leaks.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long history of producing sporty, driver-oriented vehicles with advanced engineering.
E36 Introduction:
The E36 chassis was introduced in 1990 as the successor to the E30 3 Series, offering significant improvements in chassis rigidity, aerodynamics, and interior comfort.
E36 1995 Updates:
For 1995, minor updates may have included new wheel designs, interior trim changes, and potential revisions to engine management systems.
Production Period:
E36 production ran from 1990 to 2000.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Dingolfing, Regensburg), with some assembly in South Africa and Mexico.
