🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

1 Series Convertible & Coupe

Model Variant:

128i / 135i

Model Year:

2010

Market:

USDM (United States Domestic Market)

Chassis Code:

E88 (Convertible), E82 (Coupe)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2010 BMW 1 Series represented BMW's entry-level luxury vehicle, offering a more compact and driver-focused alternative to its larger sedans and coupes. It competed against vehicles like the Audi A3, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe, and Infiniti G37 Coupe.

Competitive Analysis:

The 1 Series emphasized BMW's traditional strengths of rear-wheel drive dynamics and engaging handling, often with a more affordable entry price point than other BMW models. The Convertible variant provided open-air motoring in a premium package.

Key Features:

Rear-wheel drive platform, potent inline-six engines (especially in the 135i), sporty suspension tuning, premium interior materials, optional xDrive all-wheel drive (though not typically for the 128i/135i coupe/convertible of this era in the US), and characteristic BMW build quality.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Comprehensive coverage for 2010 BMW 128i and 135i Convertible and Coupe models sold in the United States.

Page Count:

Approximately 400-500 pages (estimated for a typical US owner's manual).

Manual Type:

Owner's / Operator's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Book

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Vehicle identification, operating controls, instruments and indicators, driving information, climate control, audio system, iDrive infotainment system, navigation system (if equipped), seats and storage, safety systems (airbags, seat belts, child restraint systems), driving dynamics control (DSC/DTC), tires and wheels, starting and driving, in-case-of-emergency procedures (towing, jump starting, flat tire), vehicle care and maintenance (fluid checks, washing, interior care), service and warranty information, technical data.

Convertible Top Operation:

Detailed instructions for operating the power convertible soft top, including the remote control function and safety precautions.

Idrive System Overview:

Basic explanation of the iDrive interface, menu navigation, and common functions like climate control, audio, and vehicle settings.

Procedures Included:

Operation of all vehicle features, dashboard warnings and indicators explained, correct fluid level checks and top-offs, tire pressure checks and adjustments, basic troubleshooting guidance for common warning lights, seat adjustment and restraint system usage, child seat installation, convertible top operation and care, basic winter driving tips, emergency roadside procedures.

Tire Change Procedure:

Step-by-step instructions for changing a flat tire, including jack points, spare tire location, and lug nut torque specifications.

Jump Starting:

Correct procedure for jump-starting the vehicle using jumper cables and another battery, emphasizing safety precautions.

Towing Information:

Guidelines for towing the vehicle, including recommended towing methods (flat-bed tow truck) and caution against towing with a rope or chain.

Technical Depth:

Designed for the owner. Focuses on operation, basic checks, and owner-level maintenance. Does not cover in-depth mechanical repairs, diagnostics, or component-level troubleshooting typically found in a service manual.

Warning Lights Explained:

Comprehensive guide to all dashboard warning lights and indicator symbols, explaining their meaning and potential causes.

Vehicle Care Instructions:

Recommendations for washing, waxing, interior cleaning, and protecting the vehicle's finish and interior materials.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Printed)

Print Quality:

High-quality paper and printing typical of OEM BMW publications, ensuring durability and readability.

Binding Type:

Perfect bound or saddle-stitched, designed for regular use.

Paper Type:

Glossy or semi-gloss paper stock for clear image reproduction and durability.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 128I:

3.0L Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 (N52)

Engine 135I:

3.0L Twin-Turbocharged Inline-6 (N54)

Horsepower 128I:

230 hp @ 6500 rpm

Torque 128I:

200 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm

Horsepower 135I:

300 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque 135I:

300 lb-ft @ 1300 rpm

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with direct injection on N54, port injection on N52

Engine Management System:

Bosch Motronic

Emissions Control Features:

Catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

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

Transmission Optional:

6-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 6HP19TU for 128i, ZF 6HP21TU for 135i)

Transmission Features:

Sport Automatic option with paddle shifters (Steptronic), rear-wheel drive.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch (for manual transmission).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

104.7 inches (2659 mm)

Length Coupe:

171.7 inches (4361 mm)

Length Convertible:

172.0 inches (4369 mm)

Width:

69.9 inches (1775 mm)

Height Coupe:

54.6 inches (1387 mm)

Height Convertible:

54.7 inches (1390 mm)

Curb Weight 128I Coupe:

Approx. 3200 lbs (1451 kg)

Curb Weight 135I Coupe:

Approx. 3400 lbs (1542 kg)

Curb Weight 128I Convertible:

Approx. 3500 lbs (1588 kg)

Curb Weight 135I Convertible:

Approx. 3700 lbs (1678 kg)

Gvw:

Approx. 4500-4700 lbs depending on model and configuration

Trunk Volume Coupe:

13.0 cubic feet (368 Liters)

Trunk Volume Convertible:

9.0 cubic feet (255 Liters) with top up, 7.0 cubic feet (198 Liters) with top down

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:

5-Star (for Coupe models, typically)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (for Coupe models, typically)

Active Safety Features:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, rollover protection system (for Convertible), active head restraints, front and rear crumple zones, strengthened A-pillars.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system in rear seats.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW iDrive system (CCC or CIC depending on build date and options), featuring a central LCD screen, rotary controller, and buttons on the center console. Includes radio, CD player, optional USB/Aux input, Bluetooth connectivity, and optional Navigation system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Park Distance Control (PDC) - front and rear sensors, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth hands-free calling, optional USB audio interface, SiriusXM satellite radio.

Lighting Options:

Optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights, LED taillights.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) typically recommends oil changes based on driving conditions, often around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. Consult the manual or CBS display for specific recommendations.

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Change:

Initial fill is typically long-life; consult manual for specific interval, often 4-5 years or 60,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

100,000 miles (for original equipment)

Engine Oil Type 128I:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) synthetic, SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30.

Engine Oil Type 135I:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) synthetic, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 recommended for high-performance applications.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) Brake Fluid

Transmission Fluid Auto:

ZF Lifeguardfluid 6 (for 6HP19/21 transmissions) - often considered 'lifetime' but recommended for change around 60,000-100,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Pentosin MTF LT-2 or equivalent synthetic manual transmission fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or CHF 202 (Green fluid)

Common Issues 135I N54:

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, clogged or faulty fuel injectors, turbo wastegate rattle, oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil filter housing, ignition coil and spark plug issues, carbon buildup on intake valves.

Common Issues 128I N52:

Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, and oil pan gasket; water pump failure (often plastic impeller), VANOS solenoid issues, ignition coil issues.

Common Issues Convertible E88:

Convertible top hydraulic system issues, seal degradation, drain plug clogging leading to water ingress.

Common Issues General:

HVAC blower motor resistor failure, electric power steering pump issues (on some later models), various sensor failures (e.g., O2 sensors, crank position sensors).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) is a German luxury and performance automobile manufacturer, known for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan and its focus on engineering excellence and driver engagement.

Model Evolution 1 Series:

The E87 hatchback was the first generation of the 1 Series globally, launched in 2004. The E82 Coupe and E88 Convertible were introduced for the 2008 model year, specifically targeting markets like North America. The 2010 model year represents a mid-cycle refresh for some variants but largely carries over the core design and powertrains from its introduction.

Production Location:

Leipzig, Germany

Production Years E82 E88:

2007-2013

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards General:

While specific awards for the 2010 1 Series are less prominent than larger BMW models, it received praise for its driving dynamics and premium feel in the entry-level luxury segment. Reviews often highlighted its compact size and sporty handling.

Fuel Economy Est Mpg 128I:

Approx. 18 city / 28 highway (Manual Transmission)

Fuel Economy Est Mpg 135I:

Approx. 17 city / 25 highway (Manual Transmission)