Market Position:
Premium compact sports car, focused on driving dynamics and luxury
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with vehicles like the Porsche Boxster, Audi TT, Mercedes-Benz SLK, and Nissan 350Z. Known for its BMW driving characteristics and upscale interior.
Key Features:
Rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, high-revving inline-six engines, convertible (E85) and coupe (E86) body styles, premium interior materials.
Unique Selling Points:
Officially licensed, derived from OE materials, convenient online format, comprehensive coverage, cost savings over dealership service.
Coverage Areas:
Full service and repair coverage for all systems and components
Page Count:
Extensive, digitally presented information equivalent to hundreds of printed pages
Manual Type:
Official Service & Repair Manual Software
Format:
Online Software/Web-based Access
Systems Covered:
Engine (including specific variants), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical Systems (including wiring diagrams), HVAC, Bodywork, Interior components, Convertible Top mechanism (E85), Chassis
HVAC System:
Diagnosis and repair of air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control modules, refrigerant handling, and component replacement (compressor, blower motor, etc.).
Convertible Top Mechanism:
Detailed procedures for the hydraulic system, motors, switches, sensors, and fabric maintenance for the E85 Roadster model.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, diagnostics, troubleshooting, component replacement, major repairs, rebuilding procedures, electrical system diagnostics, HVAC system service, convertible top service (E85)
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement, and reassembly, including torque specifications and clearances.
Drivetrain Repair:
Coverage for clutch replacement, transmission overhaul, differential service, and driveshaft maintenance.
Brake System Overhaul:
Complete guide to brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper servicing, brake line inspection and replacement, and bleeding the brake system.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component locations, and troubleshooting guides for all electrical systems, including engine control, lighting, HVAC, and infotainment.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to advanced engine diagnostics, transmission overhaul, and complete chassis repair
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step troubleshooting procedures for common and complex issues, including fault code interpretation and diagnostic tool usage.
Component Replacement:
Clear instructions for replacing virtually all components, from small sensors to major assemblies like the engine or transmission.
File Format:
Web-based access via browser; no specific file download format (e.g., PDF) specified, but OE data is digitally presented
Print Quality:
N/A (digital format), but OE data ensures high-quality technical illustrations and diagrams
Binding Type:
N/A (digital format)
Paper Type:
N/A (digital format)
Device Compatibility:
Compatible with PC, laptop, smartphone, or tablet with internet connection and web browser.
Access Duration:
1 Year of access included, with discounts available for additional years.
Primary Engine:
N52B30 (3.0L Inline-6)
Engine Variants:
N52B25 (2.5L Inline-6), N54B30 (3.0L Twin-Turbocharged Inline-6 - specific models like Z4 M)
Hp Range:
215 hp to 330 hp (depending on engine variant and model)
Torque Range:
200 lb-ft to 369 lb-ft (depending on engine variant and model)
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Valvetronic and Double VANOS variable valve timing
Engine Management:
Bosch Motronic ECU with advanced diagnostics and self-learning capabilities
Crash Test Ratings:
NHTSA: Frontal: 4 stars, Side: 5 stars. IIHS: Frontal Offset: Good. (Ratings may vary slightly by model year and specific testing procedures)
Active Safety Features:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags, roll-over protection (pop-up bars for Roadster)
Infotainment System:
BMW Professional Radio/Navigation system (optional), CD player, Bluetooth connectivity (optional), enhanced speaker systems.
Driver Assistance Features:
Parking distance sensors (optional), cruise control.
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth hands-free calling, USB/Auxiliary audio input (depending on option package).
Oil Change Interval:
Condition-based service (CBS) system typically recommends oil changes every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific vehicle data.
Brake Fluid Interval:
Every 2 years
Spark Plug Interval:
Typically around 60,000 miles for iridium plugs, but check specific engine variant.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil, SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 recommended. Check manual for exact viscosity based on ambient temperature.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue antifreeze/coolant (G48), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 High Performance or BMW's recommended fluid
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Typically a high-quality synthetic gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 GL-4 or GL-5, check manual for exact spec)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
BMW ATF LT-5 (or equivalent approved fluid, check manual for exact type and capacity)
Known Issues:
VANOS solenoid issues (causing rough idle/performance loss), ignition coil failures, water pump failures (especially plastic impeller type), fuel pump issues, oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan, convertible top hydraulic leaks/motor issues (E85), electrical gremlins in complex systems.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) for 3.0L engine. Check manual for exact capacity.
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 liters (7.9 US quarts). Check manual for exact capacity.
Transmission Fluid Capacity Manual:
Approximately 1.5-2.0 liters (1.6-2.1 US quarts). Check manual for exact capacity.
Transmission Fluid Capacity Automatic:
Approximately 8-10 liters (8.5-10.6 US quarts). Check manual for exact capacity and procedure.
Brand Heritage:
BMW, a long-standing German manufacturer with a rich history in performance vehicles and motorsport.
Model Evolution:
The E85/E86 generation (2002-2008) succeeded the Z3. It was a significant redesign, featuring a more modern platform, improved handling, and a wider range of powerful engines. It offered both roadster and coupe body styles.
Production Years:
2002-2008
Manufacturing Location:
Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA
