🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

318i

Year:

1995

Chassis Code:

E36

Engine Code:

M43B18

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Essential technical resource for owners and independent workshops looking to maintain and repair their 1995 BMW 318i (E36).

Alternatives:

Offers a significant advantage over generic 'how-to' guides by providing official BMW-specifications and procedures, ensuring accuracy and correctness.

Convenience:

Digital format allows for instant access, portability, and easy navigation compared to traditional printed manuals.

Accuracy:

Officially licensed content ensures adherence to BMW's engineering standards and repair methodologies.

Owner Benefit:

Empowers owners to perform routine maintenance, diagnose issues, and undertake repairs confidently, saving on labor costs.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance for the 1995 BMW 318i

Estimated Pages:

Over 1500 pages (typical for comprehensive digital manuals of this era)

Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine management (DME)

Drivetrain:

Transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS)

Electrical:

Complete electrical system diagrams, lighting, starting and charging, ignition, instruments, body electronics, comfort systems, HVAC

Body:

Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts)

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement

Diagnosis And Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for all major systems, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Repair And Rebuild:

Step-by-step repair instructions for mechanical components, electrical troubleshooting and repair, body panel repair, interior component repair

Component Replacement:

Detailed guides for replacing major components like engine, transmission, suspension parts, brake calipers, starter, alternator, fuel pump, etc.

Engine Timing:

Engine timing chain and belt (if applicable, though M43 is chain-driven) inspection and adjustment procedures.

Wheel Alignment:

Front and rear wheel alignment specifications and adjustment procedures.

Battery And Charging:

Testing and replacement of battery, starter, and alternator.

Depth:

In-depth technical information, including torque specifications, alignment procedures, diagnostic testing methods, electrical schematics, and component tolerances.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Digital (Software/PDF)

Printability:

Printable pages for easy reference during repairs

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

Text Search:

Likely includes searchable text for quick information retrieval

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1796 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 81.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder

Horsepower:

113 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

122 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane (or higher)

Oil Capacity:

4.5 Liters (4.7 Quarts) with filter

Recommended Oil:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW LL-98 specification recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed manual transmission

Type:

4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP18)

Clutch:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch (manual transmission)

Transmission Fluid:

MTF LT-2 for manual, ATF Dexron III for automatic

📐 Dimensions

Length:

174.5 inches (4432 mm)

Width:

67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

54.7 inches (1390 mm)

Wheelbase:

106.3 inches (2700 mm)

Front Track:

57.4 inches (1458 mm)

Rear Track:

57.9 inches (1471 mm)

Curb Weight:

3100 - 3250 lbs (approx.)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

4365 lbs (approx.)

Payload Capacity:

1265 lbs (approx.)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact:

4 Stars (1995 model year testing)

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:

4 Stars (1995 model year testing)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control and Traction)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and chassis design

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

BMW Business CD or Bavaria C radio/cassette, with optional CD changer.

Display:

Digital clock and display for radio/climate control.

Cruise Control:

Optional

Parking Assistance:

N/A (Rear parking sensors were not a factory option)

HVAC:

Manual climate control, optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, using synthetic oil.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (iridium or platinum plugs recommended).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Every 50,000 miles. Automatic: Every 30,000-50,000 miles (depending on driving conditions).

Coolant:

BMW Blue or G48 Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent

Common Problems:

Cooling system (water pump, thermostat, hoses), VANOS (variable camshaft timing) on M50/M52 engines (less common on M43 but worth noting), rear subframe mounts, blower motor resistor, window regulator failures, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket).

Diagnostic Tips:

The manual will detail diagnostic routines for common issues like misfires, rough idling, and ABS faults.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, emphasizing performance, handling, and build quality.

E36 Introduction:

The E36 generation of the 3 Series debuted in 1990 (as a 1991 model in North America) and represented a significant evolution in BMW's compact executive car line.

318I Positioning:

The 318i, powered by the 1.8L M43 engine, served as the entry-level model in the E36 lineup, offering a balance of efficiency and BMW driving dynamics.

Production Years:

E36 3 Series production spanned from 1990 to 2000 globally, with the 318i variant produced throughout most of this period.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), with some assembly in other locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Awards:

The E36 generation of the 3 Series was highly acclaimed for its driving dynamics, often praised by automotive publications like Car and Driver and MotorTrend for its handling and sporty feel, even in the 318i variant.

Consumer Reports:

Generally rated well for reliability and performance, with specific model years and common issues addressed in detailed reviews.