🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Chassis Code:

E36

Body Styles:

Coupe, Convertible

Engine Variants:

318i, 323i, 328i, M3

Model Year:

1999

Engine Code 318I:

M43B19

Engine Code 323I:

M52B25

Engine Code 328I:

M52B28

Engine Code M3:

S52B32 (US Spec)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Entry-level luxury sport sedan/coupe/convertible.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Acura Integra.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for balanced handling, RWD platform, responsive steering, and a refined ride.

Interior Design:

Driver-focused cockpit, high-quality materials, ergonomic layout.

Manual Value:

Empowers owners and independent workshops to perform complex repairs and maintenance, saving significant dealership costs. Provides in-depth understanding of the vehicle's sophisticated systems.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Electrical Systems, Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Body, Climate Control

Specific Electrical Coverage:

Power Distribution, Fuse Charts, Ground Distribution, Data Link, Engine Control, Charging, Starting, Transmission Control, SRS, ABS, Power Mirrors, Central Locking, Power Windows, Power Seats, Heated Seats, Power Sunroof, Horn, Wiper/Washer, Headlight Washer, Windshield Washer Jet Heaters, Instrument Cluster, Light Switch, Headlights/Fog Lights, Turn/Hazard Lights, Park/Tail/Underhood Lights, License Plate/Luggage Compartment Lights, Back-up Lights, Brake Lights, Interior Lights, Glove Box/Cassette/Ashtray Lights/Charging Socket, Crash Control, Park/Ventilation (HKR), Rear Window Defogger, Climate Regulation, Radio/CD Player, Radio/Hi-Fi, Cellular Telephone, Cruise Control, Anti-Theft System, On-Board Computer

Estimated Page Count:

Likely extensive, typical for a full factory service manual covering multiple variants (Estimate: 800-1500+ pages)

Type:

Factory-style Repair Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely digital (PDF), searchable with clear layout for printability.

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel, ignition, cooling, exhaust, engine management (DME), automatic and manual transmissions.

Electrical:

Comprehensive coverage of all vehicle electrical systems, including power distribution, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, component locations, and diagnostics for comfort and convenience features.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (including ABS and slip control), wheels, and tires.

Body:

Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, and safety features like airbags.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspection procedures.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues, often using flowcharts and symptom-based guides.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation, including torque specifications.

Diagnostics:

Information on diagnostic connectors (e.g., OBD-II), scan tool usage, fault code interpretation, and electrical testing methods.

Depth:

High. Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to in-depth engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and complex electrical system diagnostics and repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Quality:

Designed for clarity with clear text, diagrams, and illustrations. Quality depends on original source and digitization process.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

Text Search:

High (assuming OCR'd PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

318I Engine:

2.5L (2494cc) Inline-6, M52B25 (European spec M43B19 1.9L Inline-4 also relevant for some markets but not explicitly listed for '318' in this context based on common E36 nomenclature. Assuming 318i refers to 1.9L for US market consistency where M52 started with 2.5L for 323i).

323I Engine:

2.5L (2494cc) Inline-6, M52B25

328I Engine:

2.8L (2793cc) Inline-6, M52B28

M3 Engine:

3.2L (3201cc) Inline-6, S52B32 (US Spec)

318I Horsepower:

Approx. 118 hp (M43B19)

318I Torque:

Approx. 133 lb-ft (M43B19)

323I Horsepower:

Approx. 168 hp

323I Torque:

Approx. 181 lb-ft

328I Horsepower:

Approx. 190 hp

328I Torque:

Approx. 206 lb-ft

M3 Horsepower:

Approx. 240 hp (US Spec)

M3 Torque:

Approx. 236 lb-ft (US Spec)

Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Bosch Motronic engine management

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual (Getrag 260/5 for most, ZF S5D320Z for M3)

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22 for most, ZF 5HP18 for some 6-cylinder models)

Clutch:

Hydraulic clutch actuation

📐 Dimensions

Coupe Length:

Approx. 174.5 inches (4432 mm)

Convertible Length:

Approx. 174.5 inches (4432 mm)

Coupe Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 3000 lbs (1360 kg) for 318i

Convertible Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 3300 lbs (1497 kg) for 318i Convertible

M3 Curb Weight:

Approx. 3175 lbs (1440 kg) for M3 Coupe

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact:

4-Star (for most E36 models in earlier testing, specific 1999 ratings may vary)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for coupes tested)

ABS:

Standard on all models (Bosch ABS III or later)

Traction Control:

Optional on some models (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control + Traction)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags optional on some models.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

BMW Business or Professional CD players, optional Harman Kardon (HK) sound system, cassette players.

Navigation:

Optional BMW Navigation system (older generation, CD-ROM based).

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional depending on trim, electronically controlled ('Tempomat')

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC)

Cellular Telephone:

Optional integrated cellular telephone system with car phone handset and external antenna.

On Board Computer:

Optional On-Board Computer (OBC) displaying fuel economy, range, average speed, etc.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, depending on oil type and driving conditions. (Refer to manual for precise interval)

Spark Plugs:

Approx. 60,000 miles for standard plugs, 100,000 miles for long-life plugs (e.g., platinum or iridium).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years.

Engine Oil:

BMW High Performance Synthetic Motor Oil SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (API SJ or higher, ACEA A3/B3 or higher). Check manual for exact spec.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ZF LifeguardFluid5 or equivalent ATF (Dexron III compatible for some early versions, but LifeguardFluid5 is preferred for later E36).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 brake fluid.

Cooling System:

Plastic expansion tank prone to cracking, water pump failures, thermostat housing leaks, radiator leaks.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter housing gasket, rear main seal.

Suspension:

Worn control arm bushings (bushings often fail), strut mounts, ball joints.

Electrical:

ABS/ASC sensor failures, VANOS solenoid issues (on 6-cylinder models), blower motor resistor failures, headlight moisture ingress.

Body:

Rust on fenders, rocker panels, subframe mounting points. Convertible top hydraulic issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

BMW is a globally renowned manufacturer with a long history of producing high-performance, driver-focused luxury vehicles known for their engineering prowess and driving dynamics.

E36 Generation:

The E36 generation, produced from 1990 to 2000, represented BMW's third generation of the 3 Series. It was a significant evolution from the E30, featuring a more modern design, improved aerodynamics, enhanced safety, and a wider range of engine options.

Production Period:

E36 production: 1990-2000. 1999 represents the final years of this generation, often featuring minor updates and refinements.

Manufacturing Locations:

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

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

Several E36 models, including the M3, were frequently featured on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during their production years, recognized for their exceptional performance and handling.

General Reputation:

The E36 3 Series is widely regarded as one of the best-driving generations of the 3 Series, praised for its chassis balance and driver engagement.