Years Covered:
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Chassis Codes:
E90 (Sedan), E91 (Wagon/Touring), E92 (Coupe), E93 (Convertible)
Segment:
Sport Sedan/Coupe/Convertible, Premium Mid-size
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional automotive technicians
Competitors:
Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC, Lexus IS F
Performance Orientation:
Emphasis on sporty driving dynamics and powerful acceleration.
All Wheel Drive:
Standard xDrive system for enhanced traction and stability.
Twin Turbocharging:
N54 engine's twin-turbo setup provides significant torque and power.
Powertrain:
Engine (N54), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Turbocharging System, Drivetrain (xDrive AWD)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (including ABS/DSC), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC Controls, Infotainment, Body Electronics, DME (Digital Motor Electronics), EGS (Electronic Gearbox Control), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)
Bodywork:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Restraint Systems (Airbags)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Top-offs, Spark Plug Replacement, Brake Pad & Rotor Replacement
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Turbocharger Replacement, Injector Service, Transmission Repair/Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Bleeding & Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Common Issues, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Electrical System Testing, Component Testing
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 108.7 inches (E90/E92), 110.6 inches (E91)
Length:
Approx. 181.8 inches (E90), 184.0 inches (E91), 181.3 inches (E92)
Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches
Height:
Approx. 56.2 inches (E90/E92), 57.3 inches (E91), 55.5 inches (E93)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3600 - 3800 lbs (varies by body style)
NHTSA Front Crash:
5-Star (for applicable models/years)
IIHS Front Offset:
Good (for applicable models/years)
Traction Control:
Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Braking:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Airbags:
Front, Side-impact, and Curtain Airbags
Seatbelts:
Pretensioning front seatbelts
System Name:
iDrive (various generations depending on year and options)
Features:
Navigation system, Radio (AM/FM/Satellite), CD Player, Bluetooth connectivity (later years), USB integration (later years).
Standard Features:
ABS, DSC, Traction Control, Cruise Control
Optional Features:
Active Steering, Adaptive Headlights
Bluetooth:
Available on models equipped with the 'Enhanced Premium Sound' or Technology Package, allowing phone calls and audio streaming.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000-15,000 miles or as indicated by Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles for original plugs, potentially earlier for performance driving.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 approved synthetic oil, typically 0W-30 or 5W-30 viscosity.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 High Performance Synthetic Brake Fluid
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Specialized ATF (e.g., LT-5 for ZF GA6HP19Z), often requires BMW Blue oil.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW MTF LT-3 (or equivalent high-quality manual transmission fluid).
Differential Fluid:
BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G2 (or equivalent GL-5 rated gear oil).
Turbocharger System:
Wastegate rattle, vacuum line leaks, turbocharger failure (especially on early N54s), HPFP (High-Pressure Fuel Pump) failures, injector issues.
Engine Management:
Carbon buildup on intake valves due to direct injection, coil pack failures, sensor issues (e.g., crankshaft position).
Cooling System:
Water pump failures (electric pump), thermostat failures.
Drivetrain:
Drive shaft flex disc wear, AWD system component issues (rare).
Legacy:
BMW's reputation for 'Ultimate Driving Machine' and engineering excellence.
Generation:
Fifth Generation BMW 3 Series (E90/E91/E92/E93)
Introduction Of 335Xi:
The 335xi designation signifies the introduction of the powerful N54 twin-turbo engine combined with the xDrive AWD system in the 3 Series lineup, representing a significant performance and technological advancement.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (primarily)