Market Position:
Premium compact executive sedan, known for sporty driving dynamics and build quality.
Competitors:
Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC, Lexus IS.
Key Features:
xDrive all-wheel-drive system, refined interior, excellent handling balance.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Drivetrain (xDrive AWD), Transmission, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Interior, Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, troubleshooting, component repair, rebuild procedures, diagnostic codes, electrical system diagnosis, body repair, interior trim removal/installation, replacement of wear items
Technical Depth:
Advanced Diagnostics, Component Rebuild, Full Restoration
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement:
2996 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
85 mm x 88 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
Horsepower:
255 hp @ 6600 rpm
Torque:
220 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91 RON minimum recommended)
Valvetrain:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag GS6-37BZ)
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (GA6HP-19Z)
Drivetrain:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with electronic distribution of torque.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent specification)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-5 (or equivalent specification)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5-Star
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good
Airbags:
Frontal, Side-impact, Curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Dsc:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T)
Infotainment System:
iDrive (CCC - Car Communication Computer) in early models, optional Logic 7 audio system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, optional Park Distance Control (PDC), optional Xenon headlights with adaptive function.
Connectivity Options:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface, USB audio adapter (later integration).
Oil Change Interval:
Variable interval system (Condition Based Service - CBS), typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years (per BMW recommendations)
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, replace as needed (or per CBS).
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 30,000 miles (or per CBS).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (Bosch or NGK recommended).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 FE or LL-04 compliant)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent (BMW Part No. 81.22.9.407.782)
Common Issues Engine:
Eccentric Shaft Sensor (Vanos solenoid related), Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil filter housing, CCV system failure leading to rough idle or oil consumption.
Common Issues Suspension:
Front control arm bushings, rear shock mounts, differential bushings.
Common Issues Electrical:
Power window regulators, LCM (Light Module Control) failure, iDrive system glitches.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Mann-Filter HU837/1x or Mahle KL146/3
Cabin Filter Part Number:
Mann-Filter CU29002 or Bosch 6034
Brand Heritage:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, founded in 1916, renowned for luxury, performance, and engineering excellence.
E90 Generation Introduction:
The E90 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 2005, replacing the E46 generation.
E90 Design Language:
Introduced a new design language with sharper lines and a more aggressive stance.
Production Years:
2005-2013 (E90 generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Munich, Dingolfing, Regensburg), Austria (Graz), South Africa (Rosslyn)
Ward Auto World Best Engines:
The N52 engine family received Ward's 10 Best Engines awards multiple times.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E90 3 Series often appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best lists.
Epa Fuel Economy Mpg Highway:
Approx. 26 MPG (Manual Transmission)
Epa Fuel Economy Mpg City:
Approx. 18 MPG (Manual Transmission)
