Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and overhaul procedures for all major engine components (pistons, rings, crankshaft, camshafts, cylinder head, valves, timing components).
Engine Management Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, sensor testing, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), ECU functions, ignition system troubleshooting, fuel injection system diagnostics.
Brakes System:
Brake system diagnostics, hydraulic component inspection and replacement (master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders), ABS system troubleshooting, brake pad/rotor replacement procedures.
Turbocharging Intercooling:
Turbocharger system inspection, repair, and replacement. Intercooler system diagnosis and servicing.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and pipe inspection, repair, and replacement procedures.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission disassembly, assembly, inspection, clutch system service, and gearshift linkage adjustment.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission overhaul, fluid and filter changes, torque converter servicing, and electronic control unit (TCU) diagnostics.
Drivetrain Differential:
Center differential and rear differential inspection, service, and potential overhaul procedures. Driveshaft and CV joint servicing.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension component inspection and replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, ball joints, sway bars). Wheel alignment specifications.
Steering System:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair (pump, steering rack, hoses). Steering column and wheel servicing. Tie rod end and steering linkage maintenance.
Electrical Wiring:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all major vehicle systems. Component location and testing procedures. Fuse and relay identification.
Body Exterior:
Body panel alignment, door and latch mechanisms, window regulation, mirror servicing, bumper repair and replacement.
Body Interior:
Seat removal and installation, dashboard disassembly, trim panel removal, HVAC control unit servicing.
HVAC System:
Air conditioning system servicing (refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, condenser), heater core replacement, climate control system diagnostics.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump testing and replacement, fuel injector cleaning and replacement, fuel filter servicing, fuel tank inspection.
Cooling System:
Radiator service, thermostat replacement, water pump inspection and replacement, coolant flush and fill procedures.
Lubrication System:
Oil pump inspection, oil pan removal and installation, oil filter part numbers and replacement.
Maintenance Routine:
Detailed procedures for oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon vehicle issues.
Repair Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for the complete disassembly, repair, and reassembly of virtually all major vehicle components.
Component Replacement:
Guidance on replacing individual parts such as alternators, starters, radiators, brake calipers, suspension arms, etc.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Procedures for testing sensors, actuators, control modules, and wiring harnesses using multimeters and diagnostic tools.
Torque Specifications:
Crucial torque values for all critical fasteners and components to ensure proper assembly and prevent damage.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage guidelines for specialized tools required for specific repair procedures on the E36 platform.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.
Engine Variants Covered:
Includes coverage for various M40, M42, M43, M44 (4-cylinder), M50, M52 (6-cylinder) engines found in the E36 lineup. Specific engines like the M50B25 (2.5L 6-cylinder) and M44B19 (1.9L 4-cylinder) are typically well-covered.
M50B25 Power:
Approx. 189 hp @ 6000 rpm, 181 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm (for the US-spec 325i)
M44B19 Power:
Approx. 138 hp @ 6000 rpm, 133 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (for the 318is/318ti)
Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection systems, typically sequential multipoint.
Notes:
While most E36 models were naturally aspirated, this manual's mention of 'Turbo' suggests coverage for M3 turbo conversions or specific performance variants if applicable to aftermarket or specific regional models.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil quality. Check oil level frequently.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-3 years or per manufacturer's schedule for optimal cooling system performance.
Spark Plugs:
Intervals vary by engine and plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum/iridium). Typically 30,000-60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Spec:
Refer to specific engine, but commonly SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting BMW Longlife-98 or Longlife-01 specifications.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue or Green coolant concentrate mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Refer to manual for specific fluid type, but often a GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
BMW ATF LT-3 or equivalent Dexron III/VI for ZF transmissions.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Problems:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), cooling system issues (plastic expansion tank, water pump), VANOS system (on some 6-cylinder engines), subframe mounting points, door panel vapor barriers, ABS sensor failures.
Common Problems Electrical:
Mass airflow sensor (MAF), idle control valve (ICV), window regulators, headlight leveling modules.
