Model Years:
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Chassis Codes:
E90 (Sedan), E91 (Wagon/Touring), E92 (Coupe), E93 (Convertible)
Segment:
Premium Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible.
Key Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35/G37.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its sporty handling, rear-wheel-drive platform, and balanced chassis.
Powertrain Philosophy:
Emphasis on smooth, powerful inline-six engines and refined drivetrains.
Benefits To Owner:
Empowers owners with the knowledge to perform routine maintenance, diagnose issues, and undertake repairs, saving on dealership costs and extending vehicle lifespan.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, exhaust, engine management (DME), emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission service, repair, diagnosis, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differentials, axles, clutch (manual).
Chassis And Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, steering system, wheel alignment, shock absorbers, control arms, subframes.
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, ABS, DSC, brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, parking brake.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems, instrument cluster, comfort systems, body electronics (GM5 module).
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, mirrors, seats, airbags, climate control system, dashboard, interior trim.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), OBD-II procedures, troubleshooting guides for common faults.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid flushes, belt inspection/replacement.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical component repair.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex vehicle issues.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all critical fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical values.
Depth:
Full factory-level coverage, including detailed disassembly, assembly, and diagnostic procedures. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2497 cc) / 3.0 Liters (2996 cc) - *Note: 328i typically refers to the 3.0L N52B30 variant.
Bore X Stroke:
82.0 mm x 78.0 mm (for 3.0L N52B30)
Compression Ratio:
12.0:1
Valvetrain:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing), Valvetronic
Horsepower:
230 hp @ 6500 rpm (for 3.0L N52B30)
Torque:
200 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm (for 3.0L N52B30)
Induction:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI), Bosch Motronic DME.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
ECU System:
Digital Engine Electronics (DME)
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual (GS6-37BZ)
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Automatic (GA6HP-19Z)
Automatic Features:
Steptronic, Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF2).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF1).
Wheelbase:
107.5 inches (2733 mm) - E90/E91
Length:
178.2 inches (4527 mm) - E90; 179.1 inches (4550 mm) - E91; 181.1 inches (4601 mm) - E92/E93
Width:
69.9 inches (1776 mm) - E90/E91; 70.2 inches (1783 mm) - E92/E93
Height:
55.4 inches (1407 mm) - E90; 56.0 inches (1422 mm) - E91; 54.7 inches (1391 mm) - E92; 54.3 inches (1380 mm) - E93
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3500-3700 lbs (depending on body style and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4500-4700 lbs
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 12 cu ft (E90 Sedan), 15.1 cu ft (E92 Coupe), 10.2 cu ft (E93 Convertible)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Brake Assist.
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), including Traction Control.
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, head protection system (front and rear side curtain airbags on sedans/wagons).
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with automatic tensioners and force limiters.
Infotainment System:
iDrive system (Professional Navigation optional), Radio BMW Professional, CD player, optional Harman Kardon audio.
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Optional Active Cruise Control (ACC).
Parking Assist:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth mobile preparation.
Headlights:
Standard Halogen, optional Bi-Xenon Adaptive Headlights.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 15,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system. The manual will detail specific indicators.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 2 years.
Coolant Replacement:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48), typically replaced at 4-5 year intervals or as indicated by CBS.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-30. Consult manual for precise grade.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48).
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (PSF) or Pentosin CHF 11S.
Common Problems 1:
Coolant leak from the water pump and thermostat housing (plastic components prone to cracking), valve cover gasket leaks (oil seepage), oil pan gasket leaks.
Common Problems 2:
PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system issues leading to oil consumption or vacuum leaks.
Common Problems 3:
Electric water pump failures (common on later N52 variants) and associated thermostat failures.
Common Problems 4:
Spark plug and ignition coil maintenance is crucial for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Maintenance Schedule Detail
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (or as per CBS).
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed.
Cabin Filter:
Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.
Brand Identity:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is renowned for producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics.
Generation:
This manual covers the fifth generation of the BMW 3 Series (E90/E91/E92/E93), which replaced the E46 generation.
Introduction Year:
The E90 sedan was introduced in 2005, followed by the E91 Touring in 2005, E92 Coupe in 2006, and E93 Convertible in 2007.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary production was at BMW's plant in Munich, Germany, and also in Regensburg, Germany. Plants in South Africa and China were also involved.
