Model Variant:
330i, 330xi
Production Years Covered:
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Chassis Code:
E90 (Sedan), E91 (Wagon/Touring)
Segment:
Premium compact executive sedan and wagon.
Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for BMW's characteristic 'Ultimate Driving Machine' handling, precise steering, and balanced chassis.
Powertrain Options:
Powerful inline-six engines and available xDrive all-wheel drive system.
Demographic:
Driving enthusiasts, professionals, and families seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and practicality.
Powertrain:
Engine (N52B30), cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (manual & automatic), clutch, driveline (including xDrive AWD system).
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering system (hydraulic power steering), braking system (including ABS, DSC, DTC), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, infotainment systems, comfort electronics, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II), DME (Engine Control Module), modules (e.g., ABS/DSC module, Body Control Module).
Body:
Body structure, exterior panels, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, seats, climate control system (HVAC), safety systems (airbags, seatbelts).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin, fuel), spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and changes.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair/rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor/pad replacement, steering rack replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair/replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) explanation, testing procedures for components and systems, wiring diagram interpretation.
Special Procedures:
Component removal and installation, torque specifications for critical fasteners, alignment procedures, clutch bleeding, brake bleeding, HVAC system service, airbag system service.
Depth:
Extensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Detailed diagnostic strategies and component-level repair information.
Transmission Type:
6-speed manual (Getrag GS6-37BZ)
Transmission Type:
6-speed automatic (ZF 6HP19)
Drivetrain:
RWD (330i), AWD (330xi - xDrive system).
Automatic Features:
Steptronic (manual shifting mode).
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
5-Star (2006 models)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
5-Star (2006 models)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (2006-2009 models)
Braking:
ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA).
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC).
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (curtain airbags).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.
Head Unit:
iDrive infotainment system (early generations), optional navigation, CD player, AM/FM radio, auxiliary audio input.
Display:
Central LCD screen integrated into the dashboard.
Standard Features:
ABS, DSC, traction control, cruise control.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth (often optional or limited functionality), SiriusXM Satellite Radio (optional).
Oil Change Recommendation:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions. Manual recommends checking oil level frequently.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Coolant Change:
BMW long-life coolant, typically first change around 100,000 miles, then every 50,000-60,000 miles thereafter. Check manual for specific first interval.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles for original plugs (e.g., Bosch FR7NPP332).
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) certified synthetic oil, typically SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30. Check manual for precise specifications.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent, mixed with distilled water at a 50/50 ratio.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (e.g., BMW recommends specific part numbers for manual gearboxes).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ZF LifeguardFluid8 (for 6HP19, often requires specific procedures and fluid for maintenance).
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid.
Common Problems:
PCV valve failure (oil consumption, rough idle), oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket), water pump failure, VANOS solenoid issues, starter motor failure, ignition coil failures.
X Drive Specific:
Transfer case fluid changes, front differential service.
Brand Focus:
BMW, a German automotive manufacturer, has a long-standing reputation for producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles.
Generation Codename:
E90/E91 generation of the 3 Series.
Introduction Year Generation:
This generation debuted in 2005 for the sedan (E90) and 2005 for the wagon (E91), with the 330i/xi variants being prominent within this lifecycle.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany (e.g., Munich, Dingolfing).
