Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon
Usp:
Sporty handling, refined interior, advanced technology for its era, xDrive AWD capability
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35
Design Philosophy:
BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos
Powertrain Layout:
Front-engine, all-wheel drive (xDrive)
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, component testing, timing, lubrication
Engine Management:
EFI, VANOS, ignition system, sensors, actuators, DME
Transmission Automatic:
Operation, diagnosis, repair, fluid service
Transmission Manual:
Operation, diagnosis, repair, clutch service
Drivetrain:
xDrive all-wheel drive system, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering, wheel alignment
Brakes:
ABS, DSC, brake system hydraulics, pad/rotor replacement, bleeding
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, fuses, relays
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, interior trim, corrosion protection
Heating And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system, climate control, refrigerant service
Interior Systems:
Seats, airbags, restraints, power accessories
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
DTC interpretation and troubleshooting procedures
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks
Troubleshooting:
Component-specific diagnostics, common problem solutions
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step guides for component removal, repair, and installation
Engine Rebuilding:
Detailed specifications for internal engine components
Transmission Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for automatic and manual transmission disassembly and assembly
Electrical Component Testing:
Wiring diagrams, resistance values, voltage checks
Special Tool Identification:
Lists and descriptions of necessary BMW special tools
Depth:
Advanced diagnostics and complete overhaul procedures
Detail Level:
Mechanic-grade, detailed torque specifications, clearances, and tolerances
Type:
6-Speed Manual (Getrag S6S-310Z)
Type:
6-Speed Steptronic Automatic (GM 5L475-E)
X Drive System:
Variable torque distribution, integrated with DSC
Automatic Transmission Features:
Adaptive shift programs, manual mode (Steptronic)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver), 4-Star (Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for vehicles of similar design)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with DTC (Dynamic Traction Control)
Traction Control:
All-season traction control integrated with DSC and xDrive
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 (curtain airbags)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with front pre-tensioners and force limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Display:
Optional iDrive infotainment system with central display
Audio Options:
Professional Logic 7 audio system available
Navigation:
Optional DVD-based navigation system
Parking Assistance:
Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC)
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control functionality
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth phone integration
Oil Change Interval Conditional:
Condition Based Service (CBS) system monitors oil life, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (CBS system may prompt)
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles
Spark Plugs:
Typically replace every 60,000 miles (check specific OE recommendations)
Coolant Flush:
BMW Blue Coolant, replace every 30,000-45,000 miles or every 2 years
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 approved)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 US quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change
Transmission Fluid Auto:
BMW ATF LT-2 (or equivalent ETL-7045E/8072B)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW MTF LT-2 (Manual Transmission Fluid)
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant
Vibrations:
Driveshaft flex disc wear, guibo replacement
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter housing gasket
Cooling System:
Water pump failure, thermostat housing leaks, coolant expansion tank failure
Electrical:
CCFL angel eye failures (if equipped), alternator issues
Suspension:
Control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends
Pcv System:
Clogged PCV valve and hoses leading to oil consumption or leaks
Brand Focus:
Engineering excellence, driving dynamics, premium vehicles
E46 Predecessor:
3 Series E46 generation (1998-2006)
E90 Introduction:
Introduced in 2005 for the 2006 model year, marking a significant design and engineering update
Powertrain Change:
Transition to N52 engine in later E90/E91 models, but 2005 retains the robust M54 engine
Manufacturing Plant:
Various BMW plants globally, including Germany
Model Life Cycle:
E90/E91 generation ran from 2005 to 2013 (with facelifts)