Positioning:
A dedicated service and repair manual for the enthusiast and professional mechanic seeking in-depth knowledge of the 1996 BMW 318ti (E36/5) hatchback.
Alternatives:
This software manual offers a more accessible and often more up-to-date alternative to older, physical Haynes or Chilton manuals, providing detailed, OEM-level information.
Features:
Officially licensed content, comprehensive system coverage, detailed diagnostic procedures, extensive technical specifications, and electrical troubleshooting diagrams.
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical and Electrical Systems, Body Repair, Diagnostics
Secondary Coverage:
Scheduled Maintenance, Troubleshooting Guides, Component Replacement
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Software (Digital)
Engine Management:
Engine control unit (ECU) diagnosis, fuel injection, ignition timing, emissions control
Engine Mechanical:
Cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valvetrain, lubrication system, cooling system
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission overhaul, clutch service, differential service
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, CV joints, rear axle components
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Brake system overhaul (pads, rotors, calipers, lines), ABS system diagnosis and repair
Steering:
Steering rack, power steering system service, column components
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, fuse box layout, lighting, starting and charging system
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, interior trim removal, door mechanisms, glass replacement
HVAC:
Climate control system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling
Preventive Maintenance:
Oil change intervals, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability and electrical issues, fault code interpretation
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul
Diagnostic Procedures:
Use of diagnostic tools, scan tool data interpretation, circuit testing
Specification Lookup:
Torque specifications, fluid capacities, part numbers, wiring diagrams
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Detail Level:
Detailed diagnostic information, exploded views, and specific tool requirements
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Engine Displacement:
1.9 Liters (1895 cc)
Horsepower:
138 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
133 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M5.2 Fuel Injection (Sequential Multi-Port)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)
Oil Type Spec:
BMW Longlife-98, API SG or higher (e.g., SAE 5W-30, 5W-40)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue or Green Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Getrag 240
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic ZF 4HP22 (less common)
Manual Fluid Spec:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Red Line MT-90)
Automatic Fluid Spec:
BMW ATF LT-3 or equivalent (e.g., ZF Lifeguardfluid 4)
NHTSA Ratings:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific model year and configuration, typical for the era. Manual provides chassis strength and component safety information.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts
Audio System:
Factory BMW AM/FM/Cassette or CD player, optional premium sound systems.
Display:
Basic dashboard warning lights and information displays. No integrated navigation or large infotainment screens.
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era, primarily focused on basic car functions. Optional remote keyless entry.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually (depending on driving conditions and oil used).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific type and gap).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent
Differential Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 GL-5 (BMW P/N 83 22 2 339 006 or equivalent)
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank cracks, water pump failure, thermostat housing leaks.
Vanos System:
Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) system can degrade seals, leading to rough idle and power loss.
Window Regulators:
Common failure of manual or electric window regulators.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear and tear on control arm bushings and rear trailing arm bushings.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' is built on a foundation of performance, engineering, and driver engagement.
E36 Platform:
The 318ti is a variant of the E36 3 Series platform, uniquely featuring a hatchback body style (Compact model).
318Ti Introduction:
Introduced to the US market in 1995 for the 1996 model year, it offered a more affordable entry into the BMW lineup with a focus on agility and practicality.
Production Location:
Primarily manufactured in Germany.
Production Years:
E36 318ti produced from 1994-2000 globally, 1996-1999 in the US.
General Bmw Awards:
BMW consistently recognized for engineering, performance, and driving dynamics across its model range during this period.
Consumer Reports:
Models from this era often received good ratings for performance and handling, with variable reliability depending on specific components.
Oem Certification:
This manual is officially licensed and provides OEM-level service information.
