Segment:
Premium Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon/Coupe/Convertible
Key Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, responsive steering, and engaging driving experience.
Powertrain:
Smooth and powerful naturally aspirated inline-six engines.
Engine:
Engine mechanical (N52B30A), cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine management (DME), emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Getrag GS6-37BZ), Automatic transmission (ZF 6HP19/6HP26), clutch, driveshafts, differential.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (multi-link), steering system (hydraulic power steering), brakes (ABS, DSC, ventilated discs), wheels and tires.
Electrical System:
12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system, instrumentation, body control module (BCM), comfort electronics, infotainment system.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, seats, airbags, HVAC system, interior trim, soundproofing.
Maintenance:
Routine service, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, electrical component diagnostics and replacement, body panel repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), system testing procedures, wiring diagrams, component testing.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic information and wiring schematics.
Engine Type:
3.0L Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder
Horsepower:
255 hp @ 6600 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Valvetronic, Double VANOS.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 synthetic
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant
Transmission Type Standard:
6-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag GS6-37BZ)
Transmission Type Optional:
6-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 6HP19/6HP26)
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (325i), xDrive All-Wheel Drive (325xi)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (check specific VIN)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 (Blue Label) or ZF LifeguardFluid8 (for 6HP26) (check specific VIN)
Wheelbase:
108.7 inches (approx.)
Length:
181.7 inches (Sedan) / 179.7 inches (Coupe/Convertible) (approx.)
Curb Weight:
3500 - 3700 lbs (approx., depending on drivetrain and body style)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
4600 - 4800 lbs (approx.)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120
Tire Sizes:
Typically 225/45R17 or 225/40R18 (check specific VIN and trim)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (2006-2008 models)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (2006-2008 models)
Traction Control:
Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) / Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), side-impact airbags, head protection airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Infotainment System:
iDrive system (CCC - Car Communication Computer) with optional navigation, radio, CD player, and Bluetooth connectivity.
User Interface:
Rotary knob controller with surrounding buttons for menu navigation.
Parking Assistance:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) with front and rear sensors.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free connectivity.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with multi-zone temperature settings.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, based on oil condition sensor and driving style (BMW Condition Based Service - CBS).
Brake Fluid Interval:
Every 2 years.
Coolant Interval:
Initial change at 4 years or 60,000 miles, then every 2 years or 30,000 miles thereafter.
Spark Plug Interval:
Approximately 60,000 miles for original plugs (check specific VIN).
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW Power Steering Fluid.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 LV (Low Viscosity)
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket leaks, oil filter housing gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks are common.
Cooling System:
Water pump failure (especially electric pumps on later models), thermostat issues, coolant expansion tank leaks.
Pcv System:
Crankcase ventilation valve (PCV) can clog, leading to oil leaks and potential rough idle.
Vanos System:
Solenoid failures can lead to rough idle, reduced power, and increased fuel consumption.
Suspension Components:
Front control arm bushings and rear axle bushings can wear prematurely.
Electrical Issues:
CCC/iDrive system glitches, window regulator failures, and sensor failures are not uncommon.
Brand Philosophy:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, emphasizing performance, handling, and driver engagement.
Generation:
Fifth generation (E90/E91/E92/E93) of the BMW 3 Series.
Introduction Year:
2006 model year for E90/E91, 2007 for E92, 2007 for E93.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing and Munich, Germany.
