Provides in-depth, factory-level repair information, enabling efficient and accurate maintenance and troubleshooting for owners and independent workshops.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Workshop
Intended Audience:
Professional Mechanics, DIY Enthusiasts
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
Thousands (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Manual Type
Type:
Service and Repair Workshop Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Digital (PDF/eBook) - Assuming common digital format for modern manuals
Engine Mechanical Repair (Timing Chain, Head Gasket), Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair
Special Procedures:
Wheel Alignment, Air Conditioning System Servicing, Electronic System Calibration, Key Coding (if applicable)
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive - Covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
Likely PDF, potentially with hyperlinked sections and searchable text.
Print Quality
Quality:
High Resolution Images, Diagrams, and Schematics
Binding Type
Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
N52B30
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement:
2996 cc (3.0 Liters)
Performance
Horsepower:
230 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque:
200 lb-ft (271 Nm) @ 2750 rpm
Fuel System
Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Engine Management
ECU:
Bosch Motronic (Specific variant varies)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
6-Speed Manual (e.g., GS6-37BZ)
Optional
Type:
6-Speed Steptronic Automatic (GA6HP-19Z)
Features
Automatic Features:
Manual shifting mode via selector lever or paddle shifters (optional).
Fluid Specs
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends specific MTF LT-2 or LT-3. Check manual for exact part number (e.g., 83 22 0 309 230).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 (Dexron VI compatible, but OE recommended). Check manual for specific part number and capacity.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Sedan:
Approx. 181.8 inches (4619 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches (1781 mm)
Height Sedan:
Approx. 56.7 inches (1441 mm)
Wheelbase
Wheelbase:
Approx. 108.7 inches (2760 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3500 - 3800 lbs (1588 - 1724 kg), varies by body style and equipment.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for applicable models and years)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Likely received 'Good' ratings in relevant crash tests.
Active Features
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal, Side-impact, and Head Protection airbags (curtain airbags).
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioned seatbelts with force limiters.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
System Name:
iDrive (first generation, CCC or CIC depending on late 2008-2010 models)
Features:
Navigation system (optional), Radio, CD Player, MP3 playback, Bluetooth connectivity (optional), Auxiliary audio input.
BMW Assist (telematics service, may require subscription), USB/Auxiliary input.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Variable, based on oil condition sensor (CBS) system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months.
Brakes Fluid Interval:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Spark Plug Interval:
Approximately 100,000 miles (check specific model year and manual for exact recommendation).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-30. Consult manual for exact viscosity and BMW part number (e.g., 0751 000 9420).
Coolant Type:
BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (G48), blue color. Consult manual for BMW part number (e.g., 82 14 1 467 704).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4, BMW Super DOT 4. Consult manual for BMW part number (e.g., 81 22 9 400 801).
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, VANOS solenoid issues, water pump failure (electric pumps on later N52 models), eccentric shaft sensor failure, cooling system leaks (plastic components), ignition coil failures.
Manual Assistance For Issues:
The manual provides detailed diagnostic and repair procedures for these common issues, including part identification and step-by-step instructions.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Legacy:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, is a German manufacturer renowned for luxury and performance vehicles since its founding in 1916.
Model Evolution
Predecessor:
BMW 3 Series E46
Successor:
BMW 3 Series F30
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA (for some body styles/markets).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Vehicle Awards:
The E90 generation 3 Series generally received numerous accolades for its driving dynamics, design, and engineering during its production run, often appearing on '10 Best Cars' lists from automotive publications.
Ratings
Consumer Satisfaction:
Generally strong consumer satisfaction for performance and build quality, though maintenance costs can be higher than some competitors.