Positioning:
The BMW 335i (E90/E91/E92/E93) was positioned as the performance-oriented, turbocharged variant of the highly acclaimed 3 Series, bridging the gap between the standard 3 Series models and the M3. It offered potent acceleration and a sophisticated driving experience.
Competitors:
Competed directly with the Audi A4 3.2 FSI quattro, Mercedes-Benz C350 Sport, Infiniti G37, and Lexus IS 350. Its twin-turbocharged engine provided a distinct power advantage in its segment.
Engine Technology:
The N54 engine was a groundbreaking introduction for BMW, featuring twin-turbocharging, direct injection (High Precision Injection), and Double VANOS. It delivered V8-like power with inline-six smoothness.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, responsive steering, and engaging driving dynamics, characteristic of the BMW 3 Series legacy.
Availability:
Offered in sedan, wagon, coupe, and convertible body styles, providing versatility for different consumer needs.
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage of the N54 twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, including maintenance, diagnostics, and repair procedures for all major components. Details on fuel injection, ignition system, turbocharger system, cooling, and lubrication.
Transmission:
Detailed procedures for both the Getrag 6-speed manual transmission (GS6-53DZ) and the ZF 6-speed automatic transmission (6HP19TU/6HP26TU), including fluid changes, clutch replacement, and transmission control module diagnostics.
Drivetrain:
Coverage of the rear-wheel drive system, including driveshafts, differentials, and axle shafts. Information on axle ratio specifications and potential issues.
Brakes:
Complete brake system overhaul, including disc brake systems (front and rear), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), and brake fluid service. Details on rotor and pad replacement, caliper servicing, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including strut replacement, shock absorber service, control arm bushings, sway bar links, and steering components. Alignment specifications and procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, including hydraulic pump, steering rack, and tie rod ends. Troubleshooting for steering play and noises.
Electrical System:
In-depth coverage of the vehicle's electrical architecture, including battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems, power windows, central locking, and accessory circuits. Includes wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures.
Climate Control:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including refrigerant service, blower motor replacement, evaporator core diagnosis, and climate control module troubleshooting.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, trunk/boot lid, hood/bonnet service, and interior trim removal and installation. Chassis component identification and basic inspection.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Extensive troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, often referencing diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and specific test procedures for various modules (ECU, TCU, ABS, etc.).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, including oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, and differential fluid changes.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for virtually every component of the vehicle, from minor adjustments to major overhauls, including engine teardown and reassembly, transmission rebuilds, and component replacements.
Diagnostics:
Procedures for diagnosing faults using diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA/D), interpreting error codes, and performing specific system tests. Includes troubleshooting flowcharts for various symptoms.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems, crucial for electrical troubleshooting and repairs.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, and diagnostic parameters.
Depth:
Expert-level detail covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
3.0L Twin-Turbocharged Inline 6-cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 89.6 mm
Displacement:
2979 cc (3.0 Liters)
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Horsepower:
300 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
300 lb-ft (407 Nm) @ 1300-5000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Direct Injection (High Precision Injection - HPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
Turbochargers:
Twin-turbocharged (Sequential Twin-Turbo: Smaller turbo for low-end response, larger turbo for high-end power)
Oil Type Capacity:
BMW Longlife-01 SAE 0W-30 Synthetic (approx. 6.5 liters / 6.9 US quarts)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, G48 formulation), 50/50 mix with distilled water
Transmission Type:
Getrag 6-speed Manual Transmission (GS6-53DZ)
Transmission Type:
ZF 6-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (6HP19TU for RWD, 6HP26TU for AWD xDrive variants)
Automatic Features:
Steptronic manual shift mode, adaptive shift programs, Sport mode.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Castrol BOT 341, Pentosin MTF2)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF Lifeguardfluid 6 (equivalent to BMW Part No. 83 22 0 024 359)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for relevant sedan and coupe models)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for relevant models, dependent on year and specific testing criteria)
Traction Control:
Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Braking:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection airbags (curtain airbags).
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front seat pretensioners and force limiters.
System Name:
iDrive (CCC or CIC depending on model year and options)
Features:
Navigation system, radio (AM/FM/Satellite), CD player, auxiliary audio input, Bluetooth connectivity (optional), voice control (optional).
Features:
Parking distance sensors (front and rear), Adaptive Headlights (optional), Rain-sensing wipers, Cruise Control.
Bluetooth:
Optional, allowing hands-free calling and audio streaming. Requires pairing via iDrive.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable, typically indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system. Generally, every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for exact CBS reset procedures.
Brake Fluid Interval:
Every 2 years (regardless of mileage).
Spark Plug Interval:
Typically around 60,000 miles for the N54 engine (using appropriate spark plugs like NGK SILZKFR7B8).
Air Filter Interval:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically 30,000 miles).
Cabin Filter Interval:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically 15,000-30,000 miles).
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11S is a common equivalent for many BMWs, verify for E90 specifically)
Differential Fluid:
BMW SAF-XJ or SAF-XOS (Synthetic Gear Oil) 75W-140
Fuel Injectors:
Early N54 models (pre-2009) are known for injector failure, leading to misfires and rough running. Often requires replacement with updated Bosch injectors.
Turbochargers:
Wastegate rattle and eventual failure of the turbochargers' actuators or seals can occur. Common repair involves turbocharger replacement or actuator repair.
High Pressure Fuel Pump:
The eccentric shaft sensor and the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) can fail, causing engine stalling or difficulty starting. Updated HPFP models are available.
Pcv System:
The PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system, integrated into the valve cover, is prone to cracking, leading to vacuum leaks and rough idle.
Cooling System:
Water pump and thermostat failures are common, often with plastic components degrading over time. Requires replacement with the entire assembly.
Heritage:
BMW, known for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, has a long history of producing sporty and luxurious sedans and coupes. The 3 Series is its most iconic and successful model line, representing the core of the brand's identity.
E90 Generation Introduction:
The E90 generation 3 Series was launched in 2005, with the 335i variant debuting for the 2007 model year, marking BMW's significant re-entry into high-volume turbocharged gasoline engines for its core sedan line.
N54 Engine Development:
The N54 engine was a technological leap for BMW, showcasing their commitment to performance and efficiency through turbocharging and direct injection. It quickly became a benchmark in its class for power output.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced at BMW's plants in Munich, Germany, and Dingolfing, Germany. Some models may have also been assembled in other international locations depending on market.