Production Years Covered:
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Chassis Code:
E90 (Sedan), E91 (Wagon/Touring), E92 (Coupe), E93 (Convertible - note: manual coverage for E93 may vary)
Engine Codes:
N51 (Naturally Aspirated, SULEV for some markets), N52
Segment:
Premium compact executive sedan/wagon/coupe/convertible.
Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35/G37, Acura TL.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive bias (even with xDrive), and engaging driving experience characteristic of BMW.
Powertrain Philosophy:
Inline-six engines offering smooth power delivery and a sophisticated feel.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (N51/N52), fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system, engine management (DME).
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission (e.g., GM GA6HP19Z), clutch system, driveshafts, differentials, xDrive all-wheel drive system (for 328xi).
Chassis:
Suspension (front strut, rear multi-link), steering system (hydraulic power steering), braking system (ABS, DSC, brake pad/rotor replacement, hydraulic circuits).
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting, power windows, central locking, climate control system, instrument cluster, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, seats, airbags, safety restraint systems.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid), air filter replacement, cabin filter replacement.
Repair:
Engine component repair (e.g., VANOS, Valvetronic, ignition coils, fuel injectors), transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, control arms), electrical component diagnosis and replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common issues, reading diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), using diagnostic tools, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Rebuilding:
Detailed procedures for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and component refurbishment.
Depth:
Comprehensive technical information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts, covering diagnostics, repair, and specifications for all major vehicle systems.
Engine Type:
3.0L Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder
Engine Code Typical:
N52B30
Horsepower:
Approx. 230-255 hp (varies slightly by market and sub-model, e.g., N51 SULEV vs. N52)
Torque:
Approx. 200-215 lb-ft
Induction:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane recommended)
Valve Actuation:
Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing), Valvetronic (variable valve lift)
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (e.g., GS6-37BZ)
Type:
6-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission with Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC) and paddle shifters (e.g., GA6HP19Z)
AWD System:
xDrive all-wheel drive system (standard on 328xi models, optional on some 328i configurations in certain markets, though primarily RWD for 328i).
Wheelbase E90:
Approx. 108.7 inches (2760 mm)
Length E90:
Approx. 181.2 inches (4603 mm)
Width E90:
Approx. 70.1 inches (1781 mm)
Height E90:
Approx. 56.1 inches (1425 mm)
Curb Weight Approx Rwd:
3500-3650 lbs (1588-1656 kg)
Curb Weight Approx AWD:
3700-3850 lbs (1678-1746 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for comparable models/years)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for comparable models/years)
Traction Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC).
Braking Assist:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist.
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, head protection system (curtain airbags).
System:
iDrive infotainment system (various iterations depending on model year and options), including professional navigation, radio, CD player, and optional satellite radio.
Connectivity:
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming (often requires additional modules or options), USB integration (in later models or with specific options).
Parking Assist:
Park Distance Control (PDC) - front and rear parking sensors.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, optional adaptive cruise control (Active Cruise Control - ACC) on some models.
Oil Change Interval:
Condition-based service (CBS) system typically recommends oil changes between 10,000 to 15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific CBS reset procedures.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 miles, but consult the manual for exact specifications for the N51/N52 engines.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-4 years or as indicated by the vehicle's service interval indicator.
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-01 FE compliant synthetic oil, typically SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30. Always verify specific viscosity and BMW approval.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 High Performance brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Specific ZF Lifeguardfluid 6 (or equivalent approved fluid). Fluid and filter changes are often considered a 'lifetime' fill by BMW, but recommended by many specialists.
Common Problems:
Oil filter housing gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, eccentric shaft sensor failures, ignition coil failures, water pump and thermostat failures (often electric), PCV valve issues, oil pan gasket leaks, coolant expansion tank leaks.
Philosophy:
BMW's commitment to 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' emphasizes performance, handling, and driver engagement.
E90 Introduction:
The E90 generation (including 328i/xi variants) debuted in 2005 for the 2006 model year, replacing the E46 generation. It introduced new engine technologies and chassis designs.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary assembly in Germany (e.g., Dingolfing), with potential for assembly in other global locations depending on market.
Ward Top10 Engines:
The N52 engine family received multiple 'Ward's 10 Best Engines' awards during its production run, recognized for its smoothness, efficiency, and technology (like Valvetronic).
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied for this generation; while praised for driving dynamics, some common issues led to average or below-average reliability scores in certain years.
