🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

1 Series

Model Variant:

128i, 135i

Year:

2011

Market Segment:

Compact Premium Sports Coupe/Convertible

Chassis Code:

E82 (Coupe), E88 (Convertible)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2011 BMW 1 Series (E82/E88) occupied the entry-level luxury segment, targeting younger buyers and driving enthusiasts seeking BMW's characteristic performance and premium features in a more compact and affordable package.

Competitors:

Competed against vehicles such as the Audi A3, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe/Sedan, Infiniti G37 Coupe/Sedan, and Lexus IS models.

Key Features:

Rear-wheel drive platform, balanced chassis, responsive engines, premium interior materials, advanced iDrive infotainment system, and sporty styling.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Dashboard controls, iDrive infotainment, voice activation, opening/closing mechanisms, seating adjustments, child safety restraints, driving operations, lamps, climate control, interior accessories, driving tips, navigation system, radio, satellite radio, CD/DVD player, music collection, external audio devices, telephone, office functions, contacts, ConnectedDrive services, refueling, wheels and tires, under-hood components, maintenance, vehicle care, component replacement, roadside assistance.

Approximate Page Count:

266

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Infotainment System:

Comprehensive coverage of the iDrive system, including navigation, radio, media playback (CD/DVD, external devices), telephone integration, and office functionalities.

Safety Systems:

Explanation of passive safety features (airbags, seatbelts) and active safety features like ABS, DSC, and traction control. Includes guidance on child seat installation and safety.

Climate Control:

Detailed operation of the automatic climate control system, including temperature, fan speed, air distribution, and recirculation modes.

Lighting Systems:

Operation of headlights (including adaptive features if equipped), taillights, turn signals, fog lamps, and interior lighting.

Voice Activation:

Guidance on using the voice command system for various vehicle functions, including a list of short commands.

Driving Operations:

Detailed explanations for starting and operating the vehicle, engaging gears, parking, and understanding various driving aids and controls.

Maintenance Procedures:

Information on basic maintenance tasks, fluid level checks, tire pressure monitoring, and guidance on when to seek professional service.

Vehicle Entry And Exit:

Instructions on using keyless entry, operating door locks, windows, sunroofs, and the convertible top mechanism (if applicable).

Technical Depth:

Focuses on user-level operation, everyday maintenance, and troubleshooting common issues. Does not cover in-depth mechanical or electrical repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for digital viewing and printing. Text is typically searchable.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Searchability:

Typically includes searchable text, allowing quick access to specific information.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

128I Engine:

3.0L Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 (N52B30)

135I Engine:

3.0L Twin-Turbocharged Inline-6 (N55B30)

128I Horsepower:

230 hp @ 6500 rpm

128I Torque:

200 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm

135I Horsepower:

300 hp @ 5800 rpm

135I Torque:

300 lb-ft @ 1200-5000 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with direct injection on N55 for 135i. Uses premium unleaded gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended).

Engine Design:

Inline 6-cylinder (straight-six) configuration, known for its inherent smoothness and balance.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-speed manual transmission

Optional Transmission:

6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission with paddle shifters

Transmission Features:

Sport-tuned automatic transmission with manual shifting mode via gear selector or paddle shifters. Manual transmission offers a direct driving experience.

📐 Dimensions

Coupe Length:

172.2 inches

Coupe Width:

69.8 inches

Coupe Height:

55.4 inches

Convertible Height:

55.6 inches

Front Headroom:

Approx. 39 inches

Rear Legroom:

Approx. 32 inches

Coupe Trunk Volume:

12.0 cubic feet

Convertible Trunk Volume Top Up:

8.0 cubic feet

Curb Weight 128I:

Approx. 3300-3400 lbs

Curb Weight 135I:

Approx. 3450-3550 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Rating:

5-Star (for Coupe and Convertible models)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (for Coupe models)

Active Safety Features:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Brake Fade Compensation, Start-off Assistant.

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front-side airbags, head protection system (curtain airbags for Coupe), active head restraints, three-point seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters, rollover protection system (Convertible).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System Name:

iDrive (CCC or CIC depending on specific build date and options)

Infotainment Features:

Central control knob and buttons, high-resolution display, navigation, AM/FM/Satellite radio, CD/DVD playback, USB/Auxiliary input for external devices, Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming and hands-free calling.

Driver Assistance Systems:

Cruise control, optional parking assist sensors (front and rear), rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights.

Connectivity Features:

BMW ConnectedDrive services (may require subscription and specific options), Bluetooth integration, optional USB adapter for music and phone connectivity.

Audio System Options:

Standard BMW Professional Radio, optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically based on Condition Based Service (CBS) system, often around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. Refer to vehicle's CBS display or manual for specific recommendations.

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 60,000 miles for N52 (128i), and potentially longer for N55 (135i) depending on conditions. Refer to CBS.

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-01 FE (LL-01 FE) approved synthetic oil, typically 0W-30 or 5W-30 viscosity grade. Consult specific oil cap or manual.

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent G48 ethylene glycol-based coolant.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) or DOT 4+ brake fluid.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

BMW ATF DEXTRON VI or equivalent specification. Often considered a 'lifetime' fill, but fluid changes are recommended by some specialists.

Common Issues 128I:

Valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, water pump failure (especially electric pumps on later models, though this generation typically uses belt-driven), VANOS solenoid issues.

Common Issues 135I:

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failures (especially earlier N54 engines, less common but possible on early N55), turbocharger wastegate rattle, fuel injector issues, oil filter housing gasket leaks, charge pipe failures.

Cabin Air Filter:

Recommended replacement every 15,000-30,000 miles, or annually, depending on driving conditions.

Engine Air Filter:

Check during routine service, replace as needed, typically every 30,000 miles.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, is a German luxury vehicle manufacturer renowned for its performance-oriented cars and rich motorsport history.

First Generation 1 Series:

The first generation 1 Series (E81/E82/E87/E88) was introduced in 2004, with the Coupe (E82) and Convertible (E88) variants launching later. The 2011 model represents a facelifted version of the E82/E88 generation, receiving updated styling and technology.

Production Location:

Mainly produced at BMW's Leipzig plant in Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Ward S 10 Best Engines:

The N54 and N55 engines, powering the 135i, were recipients of Ward's 10 Best Engines awards in various years for their performance and efficiency.