Segment:
Compact Executive Car
Reputation:
Renowned for its sporty handling, refined engineering, and driver engagement.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus IS200, Alfa Romeo 155
Driving Dynamics:
Excellent chassis balance, responsive steering, advanced multi-link rear suspension
Engine Options:
Wide range of capable inline-4 and inline-6 gasoline engines, including the iconic M50 and M52 series.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW build quality with durable materials and precise assembly.
Covered Years:
1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998
Covered Models:
318i, 318is, 318ic, 320i, 323i, 323is, 323ic, 325i, 325is, 325ic, 328i, 328is, 328ic, M3
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 1500+
Type:
Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual
Engine:
All M40, M42, M43, M44, M50, M52, S50, S52 inline-4 and inline-6 engines
Fuel System:
Fuel injection systems (Bosch Motronic), fuel pumps, injectors, fuel lines
Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, ECU control
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan assembly
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, exhaust sensors
Transmission:
Manual (Getrag 220, Getrag 250) and Automatic (ZF 4HP22, ZF 5HP18, ZF 5HP30) transmissions
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, universal joints, differential, axles, limited-slip differential (LSD) options
Suspension:
Front McPherson struts, rear multi-link suspension, control arms, sway bars, bushings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes (vented and solid), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake calipers, master cylinder, brake lines
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting system
Body And Chassis:
Frame, body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems, climate control
Interior:
Seats, dashboard, door panels, trim, instrumentation
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, ABS, traction control (ASC/ASC+T)
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-I and early OBD-II diagnostics)
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems, including engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component replacement
Overhaul:
Detailed engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical system wiring diagrams for all circuits
Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting charts for common problems
Depth:
Extensive technical detail suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic adjustments to complete component rebuilds.
Engine Code Range:
M40, M42, M43, M44, M50, M52, S50, S52
Displacement Range:
1.8L to 3.2L
Cylinder Configuration:
Inline-4 and Inline-6
Horsepower Range:
115 hp (318i) to 321 hp (M3 Euro-spec)
Torque Range:
170 Nm (318i) to 320 Nm (M3 Euro-spec)
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Management:
Bosch Motronic engine control units (various versions)
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), often with VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) on later models.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (driver and passenger) for early models (specific ratings vary by year and testing protocol)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on early 318i
Traction Control:
ASC (Automatic Stability Control) or ASC+T (with Traction Control) optional on many models, standard on M3
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard on most models from mid-production onwards.
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for specific intervals based on model year and engine.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Varies by plug type (e.g., copper, platinum, long-life). Refer to manual; typically 30,000-100,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type Range:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic recommended. Specific viscosity depends on climate. Consult manual for exact BMW LL-XX approval.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (or DOT 4 PLUS for enhanced performance)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil, API GL-4 or GL-5. Consult manual for specific BMW approval.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 (for 4HP22) or ZF Lifeguardfluid 6 (for 5HPxx series). Specific fluid type is critical.
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; water pump plastic impellers can degrade.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings (RTABs - Rear Trailing Arm Bushings) can wear out, leading to vague steering feel and poor alignment.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and oil filter housing gaskets are common leak points.
Electrical:
ABS/ASC sensor failures, VANOS solenoid issues, window regulator failures, pixelated instrument cluster displays (SI board issues).
Fuel System:
Fuel pump failures, clogged fuel injectors (especially on early models).
