Vehicle Class:
Compact Executive Car (Entry-Level Luxury Sedan/Coupe/Convertible)
Target Audience:
Discerning drivers seeking performance, luxury, advanced technology, and engaging driving dynamics.
Key Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35/G37, Cadillac CTS, Acura TL.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for BMW's characteristic balanced chassis, precise steering, and engaging handling.
Powertrain Refinement:
Smooth and powerful naturally aspirated inline-six engine offering linear power delivery.
Build Quality:
High-quality interior materials, solid construction, and premium fit and finish.
Styling:
Classic BMW design language, evolving from the E46 generation with a modern interpretation.
Vehicle Years Covered:
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Model Variants Covered:
All 328i Sedan (E90), Wagon (E91), Coupe (E92), Convertible (E93) models
Estimated Page Count:
Approx. 2000-3000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Manual Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (N52B30), cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, engine management system (DME), transmission (automatic and manual), clutch, drivetrain (rear-wheel drive).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS, DSC), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, fuse box diagrams, lighting system, ignition system, starting system, charging system, body control modules (BCM), comfort systems, entertainment system, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, airbags, climate control system, interior trim, exterior trim, convertible top mechanisms (for E93).
Maintenance:
Routine scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks/changes, spark plugs, drive belts), inspection procedures, lubrication.
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul and repair, transmission service and overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, bodywork repairs.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common fault symptom analysis, code reader interpretation, repair procedures for specific issues.
Special Procedures:
Alignment specifications, torque specifications for critical fasteners, special tool requirements, diagnostic procedures for complex electronic systems.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic fluid checks and tire rotations to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electronic diagnostics, and body panel repair.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement:
2,996 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
Horsepower:
230 hp @ 6,500 rpm
Torque:
200 lb-ft @ 2,750 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Bosch Motronic ECU
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Valve Train:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Transmission Type Standard:
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
6-Speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission with Paddle Shifters
Transmission Features:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard; xDrive all-wheel drive (AWD) was not typically offered on the 328i during this generation, but was available on other 3-Series models (e.g., 328xi).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends specific manual transmission fluids; consult manual for exact specification (e.g., Pentosin MTF LT-2 or equivalent).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-5 or equivalent synthetic ATF, often Esso JWS 3309 or ZF Lifeguardfluid 5.
Wheelbase:
E90 Sedan: 108.7 inches (2760 mm); E92 Coupe: 108.8 inches (2765 mm)
Length:
E90 Sedan: 178.2 inches (4527 mm); E92 Coupe: 181.8 inches (4618 mm)
Width:
E90 Sedan: 70.2 inches (1782 mm); E92 Coupe: 71.5 inches (1815 mm)
Height:
E90 Sedan: 56.7 inches (1441 mm); E92 Coupe: 54.7 inches (1391 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,500 - 3,800 lbs (depending on body style and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 4,600 - 4,800 lbs
Wheelbase E91 E93:
E91 Touring: 108.7 inches (2760 mm); E93 Convertible: 108.7 inches (2760 mm)
Trunk Capacity:
E90 Sedan: ~12.0 cubic feet; E92 Coupe: ~13.1 cubic feet
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (for relevant body styles)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Generally rated 'Good' in IIHS tests for frontal offset, side impact, and rear impact.
Traction Control:
Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.
Airbags:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags, and front and rear head protection system (curtain airbags).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front-seat pretensioners and force limiters.
Convertible Safety Features:
Reinforced A-pillars, pop-up roll bars (for E93).
Infotainment System:
BMW iDrive system (first generation, CCC or CIC depending on build date and options), with integrated navigation, radio, CD player, and optional satellite radio.
Connectivity:
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB/Aux input for audio.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control; optional Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) on some models.
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear parking sensors (PDC - Park Distance Control) and sometimes front PDC.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with multi-zone temperature settings.
Seats:
Power-adjustable front seats with driver memory; optional heated seats, sport seats, and lumbar support.
Headlights:
Standard Halogen headlights; optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights with cornering function.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable; indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically between 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.
Filter Replacement Schedule:
Engine oil filter with every oil change. Cabin air filter: 15,000-20,000 miles or annually. Engine air filter: 30,000-40,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (original Bosch FGR7KQE0U or similar long-life plugs).
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) compliant synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-30.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 High Performance brake fluid.
Oil Leaks:
Common leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and eccentric shaft sensor O-ring due to age and heat.
Cooling System:
Plastic water pump failures, coolant expansion tank leaks, and hose degradation are common.
Pcv System:
Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system can clog, leading to increased crankcase pressure, oil consumption, and potential vacuum leaks or seal failures.
Electric Water Pump:
Later models (post-2008 facelifts) featured an electric water pump which is more complex but can also fail, often indicated by a 'coolant low' warning or overheating.
Valvetronic Actuator:
Issues with the Valvetronic eccentric shaft sensor or actuator can cause rough idle or performance issues.
Power Steering:
Hydraulic power steering system can develop leaks at the pump or steering rack. Some early models had electric power steering recall/updates.
Brand Reputation:
BMW, known as Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, has a long-standing heritage in automotive engineering, particularly for sporty and luxurious vehicles with excellent driving dynamics.
E90 Generation Introduction:
The E90 3 Series generation debuted in 2005 for the 2006 model year, replacing the highly successful E46 generation. The 328i nameplate, previously used for a 3.0L engine in the E46, returned for this generation using the N52B30 engine.
Body Style Expansion:
This generation expanded the 3 Series lineup to include Sedan (E90), Wagon/Touring (E91), Coupe (E92), and Convertible (E93) variants.
Production Period:
2006-2011 (with 2006-2010 being the primary focus of this manual).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), with some assembly in other global locations.
Ward'S 10 Best Engines:
The N52 engine (and variants) was frequently recognized on Ward's 10 Best Engines list during its production years for its smoothness and efficiency.
Car And Driver Best 10:
The 3 Series consistently ranked on Car and Driver's 10Best lists for its segment-defining handling and performance.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings can vary; while the chassis and performance are lauded, specific components like the cooling system and some electronic modules have historically been areas requiring attention.