🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

328i xDrive

Year:

2009

Chassis Code:

E90 (Sedan) / E91 (Wagon)

Platform:

E90/E91

Engine Code:

N51 (Naturally Aspirated, SULEV in some markets)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2009 BMW 328i xDrive is positioned as a premium compact executive sedan/wagon, offering a blend of sporty driving dynamics, luxury, and all-weather capability due to its xDrive all-wheel-drive system. It competes with vehicles like the Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC, and Lexus IS.

Analysis:

Key competitive advantages include BMW's renowned handling characteristics, powerful inline-six engine, and refined interior. The xDrive system enhances traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions, distinguishing it from rear-wheel-drive competitors.

Features:

Inline-six naturally aspirated engine, xDrive all-wheel-drive, RWD-biased torque distribution, refined suspension, premium interior materials, available iDrive infotainment system.

📋 Manual Details

Areas:

Mechanical, Electrical, Bodywork, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Repair, Troubleshooting, Specifications, Diagrams

Pages:

Extensive (exact count not specified in product info, but typical for official service manuals)

Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software/Digital

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems:

Engine (N51 B30A), Drivetrain (xDrive AWD), Transmission (6-speed manual/automatic), Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS, DSC), Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, HVAC, Electrical System (ECU, Body Control Modules, Lighting, Infotainment), Interior Trim, Exterior Body Panels, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Diagnostics (OBD-II, Fault Codes)

Procedures:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Service, Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair, HVAC System Servicing, Drivetrain Component Servicing, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) interpretation and resolution

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers from basic fluid changes and inspections to in-depth engine and transmission repairs, including torque specifications, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Software (likely executable or a proprietary viewer format), potentially including searchable PDF documents

Quality:

Digital, allowing for clear display and printing of diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Details:

BMW N51 B30A (3.0L Inline-6, Naturally Aspirated)

Horsepower:

230 hp @ 6500 rpm

Torque:

200 lb-ft @ 2750-4000 rpm

System Type:

Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) / Direct Injection (DI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane recommended)

ECU:

Bosch DME (Digital Motor Electronics)

Valvetrain:

Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag GS6-37BZ)

Transmission Type:

6-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 6HP19TU)

AWD System:

xDrive All-Wheel Drive (Variable torque split, typically 60% rear/40% front)

Automatic Fluid Type:

BMW ATF 6 (ZF Lifeguardfluid 6)

Manual Fluid Type:

BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent synthetic manual transmission fluid)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

108.7 inches (2760 mm)

Length:

180.5 inches (4585 mm) (Sedan)

Width:

69.9 inches (1777 mm)

Height:

56.7 inches (1440 mm) (Sedan)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3593 lbs (1630 kg) (Manual Sedan)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4696 lbs (2130 kg)

Trunk Capacity:

12.0 cubic feet (340 L) (Sedan)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star Rating

IIHS Side Impact:

Good Rating

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), All-Season Traction

Passive Safety:

Front and side-impact airbags, Curtain airbags, Active head restraints, Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

iDrive (Professional or Business Navigation System available)

Features Available:

Color LCD screen, CD player, AM/FM radio, Auxiliary audio input, Bluetooth connectivity (phone and audio streaming), optional Satellite Radio, optional Hard Drive for music storage and navigation maps.

Driver Assistance Features:

Park Distance Control (PDC), Cruise Control, optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights, optional Rain-Sensing Wipers, optional Automatic Climate Control.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, optional USB/iPod integration.

OBD Ii Support:

Full OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliance for emissions and powertrain diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Condition-Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions.

Major Service Intervals:

Spark plugs typically at 60,000 miles. Coolant flush at 60,000 miles. Transmission fluid recommended for replacement around 80,000-100,000 miles (especially for automatics), though often considered 'lifetime' by BMW.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-01 FE (LL-01 FE) approved synthetic oil, typically SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 type), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV)

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW power steering fluid.

Common Issues:

Valve cover gasket leaks (oil seepage), PCV valve failures (leading to oil consumption/misfires), water pump failures (often plastic impeller), ignition coil failures, coolant expansion tank cracks, VANOS solenoid issues, oil filter housing gasket leaks, rear main crankshaft seal leaks, fuel injector issues (especially with direct injection).

X Drive Specific Issues:

Transfer case fluid changes recommended. Potential for front differential seal leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, has a long-standing reputation for producing sporty, performance-oriented luxury vehicles. Founded in 1916, the brand is synonymous with driving pleasure ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').

Model Lineage:

The 3 Series is BMW's best-selling and most iconic model line, dating back to the original E21 in the 1970s. The E90 generation (introduced for 2006) represented a significant redesign with updated styling, technology, and powertrains compared to the E46 generation.

Production Years:

2009 model year vehicles were produced typically from late 2008 to mid-2009.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany (Dingolfing, Munich, Regensburg)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards Received:

While specific awards for the 2009 328i xDrive as a standalone model are not always cited, the E90 generation 3 Series consistently received accolades from automotive publications for its driving dynamics, performance, and luxury. Often ranked highly in 'best luxury car' or 'best sports sedan' categories by magazines like Car and Driver, MotorTrend, and Automobile Magazine.

Consumer Satisfaction:

Generally high consumer satisfaction for performance and build quality, though maintenance costs can be higher than non-premium brands.