Segment:
Premium compact executive sedan
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, RWD bias, and engaging driving experience
Engine Performance:
Smooth and potent inline-six engine providing ample power and refined operation
Interior Quality:
High-quality materials, ergonomic design, and driver-focused cockpit
Engine:
Engine mechanical (N52B30), cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication system, exhaust system
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmissions, clutch, driveline, driveshafts, differentials
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pads, rotors, calipers, parking brake
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, steering system
Electrical:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, power windows, power locks, interior electronics, body control modules (BCM)
Comfort And Climate:
HVAC system, climate control, seats, interior trim, sunroof
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelts, SRS control module
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, bumpers, chassis components, structural elements
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, fault codes (DTCs), troubleshooting procedures
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, brake inspections
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing all major and minor components
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and step-by-step troubleshooting guides for various issues
Repair:
Complete repair procedures for engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical, and bodywork
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical components
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all systems
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls
Diagnostics Level:
Advanced diagnostics, including sensor testing, module programming considerations, and fault code interpretation
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated, inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24-valve
Displacement:
2996 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Horsepower:
255 hp @ 6600 rpm
Torque:
220 lb-ft @ 2750-4250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic fuel injection (EFI) with multi-point injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane recommended)
Engine Control Unit:
Bosch Motronic ME9.2
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48)
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic engine oil meeting BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) specification
Oil Capacity:
6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts)
Transmission Type:
6-speed manual transmission (Getrag GS6-37BZ)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission (ZF 6HP19)
Driveline:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF Lifeguardfluid 6 or equivalent
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-star
NHTSA Side Crash Test:
5-star
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Good
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Airbags:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (optional)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters
Audio System:
BMW Professional Radio or available Logic 7 Hi-Fi audio system
Navigation:
Optional BMW Professional Navigation System with iDrive control
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) on some models
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free connectivity
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval (Condition Based Service - CBS) typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, replace as needed
Cabin Microfilter:
Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on type, e.g., NGK Iridium)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 liters (8.5 US quarts)
Crankcase Ventilation Valve Ccv:
Common failure leading to oil leaks, rough idle, and potential vacuum leaks. Replacement recommended around 80,000-100,000 miles.
Ignition Coils:
Can fail prematurely, causing misfires and rough running. Often replaced as a set.
Water Pump And Thermostat:
Plastic components can degrade over time, leading to coolant leaks and overheating. Recommended to replace proactively around 100,000 miles.
Oil Pan Gasket And Valve Cover Gasket:
Can leak oil due to age and heat. Replacement often requires significant labor.
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, emphasizing performance and luxury.
Generation:
This 2005 model represents the E90 generation of the 3 Series, succeeding the E46 generation.
Design Philosophy:
The E90 marked a significant shift in BMW's design language, featuring sharper lines and a more modern aesthetic.
Production Years:
E90 generation produced from 2005 to 2011.
