Applicable Years:
1992-1998
Body Styles Covered:
Sedan, Coupe, Convertible
Engine Codes Covered:
M42, M44, M52, S50US, S52US
Target Audience:
BMW E36 owners, independent repair shops, BMW enthusiasts seeking in-depth knowledge.
Manual Quality:
Highly comprehensive, often considered the benchmark for aftermarket repair information, mirroring OEM documentation in detail.
Completeness:
Covers nearly every system and component of the E36 generation.
Accuracy:
Provides factory-level technical data and procedures.
Usability:
Well-organized with clear text, diagrams, and pictures for ease of use.
Manual Content Summary:
Comprehensive repair, maintenance, and servicing for BMW E36 3 Series (1992-1998).
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific edition, typically 1000+ pages for such comprehensive coverage.
Manual Type:
Repair and Service Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine Systems:
General engine, engine removal/installation, cylinder head, valvetrain, lubrication, ignition, fuel injection, radiator/cooling, exhaust.
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, gearshift linkage.
Chassis Systems:
Suspension, steering, brakes.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, starter, alternator, general electrical system, airbag system.
Body Systems:
Body (exterior and interior components).
Maintenance Procedures:
Owner maintenance program, scheduled servicing, fluid checks and changes.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Implied through troubleshooting sections and component-specific repair guides.
Installation Procedures:
Engine, cylinder head, and other major component installation.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, equivalent to factory service information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Includes symptom-based troubleshooting and detailed component testing procedures.
Rebuild Scope:
Covers complete engine, transmission, and sub-assembly rebuilds with detailed specifications.
Illustrations Diagrams:
Detailed exploded views, diagrams, and pictures for clarity.
318I/Is/Ic (1992-1995) Engine:
BMW M42B18
318I/Is/Ic (1996-1998) Engine:
BMW M44B19
323Is/Ic (1998) Engine:
BMW M52B25
328I/Is/Ic (1996-1998) Engine:
BMW M52B28
M3 (1995) Engine:
BMW S50US
M3 (1996-1998) Engine:
BMW S52US
325I/Is/Ic (1992-1995) Engine:
BMW M50B25
318I/Is/Ic (M42/M44) Displacement:
1.8L (1796cc) / 1.9L (1895cc)
325I/Is/Ic (M50B25) Displacement:
2.5L (2494cc)
328I/Is/Ic (M52B28) Displacement:
2.8L (2793cc)
M3 (S50Us) Displacement:
3.0L (2990cc)
M3 (S52Us) Displacement:
3.2L (3201cc)
325I/Is/Ic (M50B25) Horsepower:
Approx. 189-192 hp
328I/Is/Ic (M52B28) Horsepower:
Approx. 190-193 hp
M3 (S50Us) Horsepower:
Approx. 240 hp
M3 (S52Us) Horsepower:
Approx. 240 hp (US spec)
Fuel System Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - DME (Digital Motor Electronics)
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 260/5, Getrag 260/6)
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22/4HP24)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Refer to manual for specific types (e.g., ATF for automatic, manual transmission fluid for manual).
E36 Sedan Wheelbase:
Approx. 107.4 inches (2728 mm)
E36 Coupe Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.0 inches (2692 mm)
E36 Convertible Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.0 inches (2692 mm)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3000-3500 lbs (1360-1590 kg) depending on model and body style.
NHTSA Safety Ratings:
Varies by model year and specific crash tests; generally good for its era. Manual will detail specific crashworthiness.
Active Safety Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), optional Traction Control (ASC/ASC+T).
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, crumple zones, reinforced A-pillars, roll-over protection for convertibles.
Infotainment Systems:
Standard AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional CD player. Some models featured early navigation systems (e.g., BMW Bavaria C III).
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, parking sensors (on later models), traction control (ASC/ASC+T).
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; typically basic external auxiliary inputs for audio devices (on some models).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Manual provides specific recommendations.
Major Service Intervals:
Inspection I and Inspection II services at approx. 30,000 and 60,000 miles respectively, covering extensive checks and fluid changes. Manual details exact intervals and procedures.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or equivalent synthetic oils, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40. Manual specifies exact grades and capacities.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Manual specifies ratio and capacity.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common E36 Issues:
Cooling system components (plastic expansion tank, water pump, thermostat), subframe mounting points, VANOS system (on M50/M52 engines), oil pan gasket leaks, strut mount wear, ABS/ASC sensor failures.
Manual Utility For Issues:
Provides detailed diagnostic and repair procedures for all common E36 issues.
Bmw Brand Philosophy:
Known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' - focus on performance, handling, and engineering.
E36 Generation Significance:
Fifth generation of the 3 Series, transitioning from the E30. Known for improved chassis dynamics, more sophisticated suspension, and a wider range of engines. Marked BMW's move towards larger and more powerful vehicles in its compact executive class.
E36 Production Years:
1990-2000 (global), with the covered models specifically from 1992-1998.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary assembly in Munich, Germany; also assembled in Dingolfing, Germany, and Rosslyn, South Africa.
