Body Styles:
Sedan, Coupe, Convertible
Production Years Covered:
1992-1998
Engine Codes And Names:
M3 (S50B30, S50B32), 318i (M43B18), 320i (M50B20), 323i (M52B25), 325i (M50B25), 328i (M52B28)
Positioning:
The BMW E36 series represented a significant evolution in the 3 Series line, balancing sportiness with everyday usability. The M3 variant specifically cemented BMW's reputation for high-performance luxury sedans and coupes.
Competitors:
Competed strongly against the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and performance variants of models like the Alfa Romeo 155 and Lexus IS.
Model Strengths:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, engaging driving dynamics, refined interiors, and a range of efficient yet potent inline-six engines. The M3 variant offered exceptional performance and handling.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, saving on dealership labor costs and fostering a deeper understanding and connection with their vehicle.
Primary Coverage:
Complete Factory Service Repair Manual
Specific Models And Trims:
M3, 318i, 320i, 323i, 325i, 328i
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Device Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac, APP ISO, iPhone, iPad, Android
Engine Mechanical:
General, Removal/Installation, Cylinder Head, Valvetrain, Lubrication, Ignition, Fuel Injection, Fuel Tank/Pump, Cooling, Exhaust
Drivetrain:
Transmission General, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Gearshift Linkage, Driveshaft, Final Drive
Suspension And Steering:
General, Front Suspension, Steering, Wheel Alignment, Rear Suspension
Brakes:
General, Specific Brake System Components
Body And Chassis:
General, Fenders, Engine Hood, Doors, Trunk Lid, Exterior Trim, Bumpers, Door Windows
Interior Systems:
General Trim, Locking/Anti-theft, Seats, Sunroof, Convertible Top Mechanism
Electrical System:
General, Component Locations, Wipers/Washers, Switches, Instruments, Exterior Lighting, HVAC, Radio, Seat Belts, Airbag System, Wiring Diagrams
Maintenance And Checks:
Comprehensive Maintenance Program, Fundamentals for DIY Owners, Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for all major repairs, from simple to complex, Engine rebuilds, Transmission overhauls, Suspension and brake repairs, Electrical diagnostics and repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guidance, Symptom-based diagnostics, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (implied through system coverage)
Depth:
Factory-level detail, including torque specifications, clearances, assembly procedures, and electrical schematics
Illustrations And Diagrams:
Detailed illustrations, diagrams, and wiring schematics for clear understanding and execution of procedures
PDF Features:
Fully indexed, bookmarked by topic, searchable text, zoomable images/diagrams
Print Readiness:
Perfect quality for printing the entire manual or selected pages
Digital Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Digital Paper Simulation:
Simulates high-quality paper for clarity
Source:
Original Adobe document (as stated in description), mirroring dealership technician manuals
318I Engine:
M43B18, 1.8L I4, ~115 hp, ~120 lb-ft torque
323I Engine:
M52B25, 2.5L I6, ~170 hp, ~181 lb-ft torque
325I Engine:
M50B25, 2.5L I6, ~189 hp, ~181 lb-ft torque (VANOS equipped)
328I Engine:
M52B28, 2.8L I6, ~190 hp, ~207 lb-ft torque
M3 Engine Usdm:
S50B30US, 3.0L I6, ~240 hp, ~225 lb-ft torque (1995)
M3 Engine Euro And Later Usdm:
S50B32, 3.2L I6, ~295 hp, ~236 lb-ft torque (Euro Spec), ~321 hp, ~258 lb-ft torque (Continetal Europe)
Tuning And Modification Potential:
The E36 platform, especially the M3, is highly regarded for its tuning potential, with extensive aftermarket support.
Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection
Manual Transmission Options:
Getrag 260/5 (5-speed manual) for most models, ZF Type C (5-speed manual) for M3
Automatic Transmission Options:
ZF 4HP22 (4-speed automatic) for most models, ZF 5HP18 (5-speed automatic) for select higher-output models.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch
Transmission Fluid Specification Manual:
Typically MTF-LT-2 or equivalent (specifics covered in manual)
Transmission Fluid Specification Automatic:
ATF Dexron-III or equivalent (specifics covered in manual)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.3 inches (2700 mm) across most models
Overall Length:
Varies by body style (Sedan: ~175 in, Coupe: ~174 in, Convertible: ~175 in)
Curb Weight:
Ranges from approximately 3100 lbs (318i) to over 3400 lbs (M3 Convertible)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Specific to each model variant, detailed in manual
Crash Test Information:
NHTSA and IIHS ratings for the E36 generation, generally good for its era, detailed in manual (if available).
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated front, solid rear), optional ABS
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) available on some models
Airbag System:
Driver and passenger airbags (standard on later models, optional on earlier ones)
Seat Belt System:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Factory premium audio systems, often with cassette or CD players, and optional Nakamichi or Harman Kardon upgrades. Later models may feature early integrated displays.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models, electronic cruise control.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control or optional automatic climate control (IHKA) with recirculation and cabin microfilter.
Telecommunications:
Optional factory cellular telephone integration on some later models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or annually, as per condition-based service (CBS) or manufacturer recommendation (detailed in manual).
Major Service Items:
Spark plugs, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid changes, differential fluid changes, belt replacements at specified intervals.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) or Longlife-01 (LL-01) compliant synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40 (detailed in manual).
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue antifreeze (G48) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common E36 Issues:
Vibrations from driveshaft center support bearing, cooling system components (water pump, hoses, expansion tank), VANOS unit noise/failure, subframe mounting points, door panel separation, window regulator issues, heater core leaks.
Common M3 Issues:
S50/S52 engine specific items like rod bearings (on certain S52 variants), oil pan gasket leaks, VANOS rebuilds.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's long-standing commitment to 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' emphasizing performance, handling, and driver engagement.
E36 Development:
The E36 succeeded the E30, featuring a more modern and aerodynamic design, improved safety, and advanced technology. It introduced new engine technologies like VANOS.
M3 Significance:
The E36 M3 was a critical step in the M3 lineage, offering a blend of track-day capability and daily drivability, solidifying its status as a benchmark performance car.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced at BMW's Dingolfing plant in Germany, with some assembly in South Africa and Mexico.
Car And Driver 10Best:
E36 3 Series models, particularly the 325i and M3, were frequent recipients of Car and Driver's '10Best' lists during their production run, lauded for performance and handling.
General Automotive Press Acclaim:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and the performance benchmark set by the M3 variant.
