Segment:
Premium Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible/Wagon
Key Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35/G37, Cadillac CTS, Acura TL.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive bias (or sophisticated xDrive AWD), and engaging driving experience.
Powertrain Options:
Smooth, powerful inline-six engines known for their refinement and responsiveness.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW high-quality interior materials and assembly.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, exhaust.
Engine Management:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensor data, emissions control (including SULEV specific systems), DFI (Direct Fuel Injection) troubleshooting.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shift mechanisms, internal components.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) service, torque converter, valve body, electronic controls, overhaul procedures.
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, CV joints, differential (rear and xDrive all-wheel-drive system), transfer case (if applicable).
Brakes:
Brake fluid flush, caliper service, rotor replacement, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution) diagnostics.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), alignment specifications, steering system.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering rack, tie rods, alignment.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, fuses, relays.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hinges, latches, interior trim, exterior trim, chassis diagnostics, corrosion protection.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control module, refrigerant handling.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) procedures, fault code interpretation, diagnostic tool usage, troubleshooting flowcharts.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step guides for diagnosing common and uncommon issues across all vehicle systems.
Repair And Replacement:
Detailed instructions for removing, repairing, and reinstalling all major and minor components.
Component Testing:
Methods for testing the functionality and integrity of sensors, actuators, and electronic modules.
Rebuilding:
Complete overhaul procedures for engines, transmissions, and differentials.
Calibration:
Procedures for recalibrating steering angle sensors, yaw rate sensors, and other electronic modules after replacement or repair.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical schematics.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 108.7 inches (2760 mm)
Overall Length:
Approx. 181.7 inches (4615 mm) for Sedan
Overall Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 56.5 inches (1435 mm) for Sedan
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 12.0 cu ft (340 Liters) for Sedan
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3461 lbs (1570 kg) for 328i Sedan
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and configuration, typically around 4500-4700 lbs
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (for applicable models and testing year)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Often achieved Top Safety Pick ratings during its production years.
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC).
Braking Assistance:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assistant.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection airbags (curtain airbags).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.
Infotainment System:
iDrive system (various iterations depending on model year and options, typically with a central display and controller).
Navigation:
Optional Professional Navigation system with updated map data.
Audio Systems:
Standard Hi-Fi, optional Logic 7 or Harman Kardon surround sound systems.
Parking Assistance:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear, optional rearview camera.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, optional Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).
Bluetooth:
Standard or optional Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Usb Aux:
Optional USB/Auxiliary input for audio devices.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil quality (as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service - CBS system).
Brake Fluid Interval:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Spark Plug Interval:
Typically around 60,000 miles for iridium spark plugs.
Coolant Interval:
BMW Long-life coolant, typically requires a change around 100,000-150,000 miles, or as per CBS.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW LL-01 or LL-04 approved synthetic engine oil (e.g., Castrol Edge Professional OE 5W-30, Mobil 1 0W-40).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 US quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW ATF 6 (Esso LT 71141 or equivalent approved fluid).
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW MTF LT-2 or MTF LT-3 (various viscosity grades depending on specific transmission model).
Differential Fluid Type:
BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G2 (e.g., SAF-XJ 75W-140 for M-differential or specific rear differential fluid).
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue (Ethylene Glycol based, silicate-free) Antifreeze/Coolant.
Common Problems Engine:
Oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, VANOS solenoid failure, eccentric shaft sensor issues, water pump failure (electric on later N55, but similar design on N52 can be prone to failure), ignition coil failures, fuel injector issues.
Common Problems Cooling:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack, thermostat failure.
Common Problems Electrical:
Window regulator failures, idrive system glitches, sensor failures (ABS, camshaft, crankshaft).
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, strut mount failures, tie rod end wear.
