Sub Models Covered:
318i, 323i, 325i, 328i, M3
Body Styles Covered:
Sedan, Coupe, Convertible
Product Name:
BMW 3 Series M3 E36 318i 323i 325i 328i Sedan Coupe Convertible 1992-1998 Service Repair Manual
Generation:
E36 (Fourth Generation)
Target Audience:
BMW owners, independent mechanics, automotive technicians, DIY repair enthusiasts
Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, factory-level repair information at a significantly lower cost than official BMW service manuals.
Completeness:
Covers all aspects of vehicle repair and maintenance for the specified models and years.
Accessibility:
Instant download provides immediate access to critical repair information.
Model Years Covered:
1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998
Estimated Page Count:
Thousands of pages (Printable)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain, exhaust system
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front and rear), wheels, tires
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, electrical components, lighting, ignition system, battery, charging system, starter
Climate Control:
HVAC system, air conditioning, heating, ventilation
Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals, interior trim
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, scheduled service, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures for all systems
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake component replacement
Technical Data:
Specifications, tolerances, torque values, electrical resistance values, diagnostic parameters
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Complete factory-level repair information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
PDF Quality:
High quality, printable pages
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF (depending on original scan quality)
Print Readability:
Designed for clarity and ease of use when printed
Binding Type:
Digital Download (Printable)
Paper Type Recommendation:
Standard copy paper is suitable for printing
Engine 318I:
2.5L M50B25 (early models) / 1.8L M43B18 (later models), Inline-6 / Inline-4
Engine 325I:
2.5L M50B25TU Inline-6
Engine 328I:
2.8L M52B28 Inline-6
Engine M3:
3.0L S50B30US (US spec) / 3.2L S50B32 (Euro spec), Inline-6
Horsepower 318I M43:
Approx. 113 hp @ 5500 rpm
Horsepower 325I:
Approx. 189 hp @ 5900 rpm
Horsepower 328I:
Approx. 190 hp @ 5300 rpm
Horsepower M3 Us:
Approx. 240 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 325I:
Approx. 181 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
Torque 328I:
Approx. 206 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm
Torque M3 Us:
Approx. 236 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Bosch Motronic EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection)
Transmission Standard 325I 328I:
5-speed Getrag manual transmission
Transmission Standard M3 Us:
5-speed ZF manual transmission
Transmission Optional 325I 328I:
4-speed ZF automatic transmission
Transmission Optional M3 Us:
5-speed ZF automatic transmission (rare)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch
Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.2 inches (2698 mm)
Length Sedan:
Approx. 179.4 inches (4557 mm)
Length Coupe:
Approx. 174.5 inches (4432 mm)
Width:
Approx. 68.5 inches (1740 mm)
Height Sedan:
Approx. 55.3 inches (1405 mm)
Height Coupe:
Approx. 53.6 inches (1362 mm)
Curb Weight 325I:
Approx. 3200-3400 lbs (1450-1540 kg)
Curb Weight M3:
Approx. 3400-3600 lbs (1540-1630 kg)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-star (1990s testing standards)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-star (1990s testing standards)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) on some models
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system on later models. Refer to manual for exact intervals.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Dependent on engine type, generally around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for iridium.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) or LL-01 compliant synthetic oil, typically SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 depending on climate. Refer to manual for exact specifications.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, specific viscosity recommended (e.g., 75W-90). Refer to manual.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
BMW ATF LT-3 or equivalent (Dexron III equivalent for earlier models). Refer to manual for precise spec.
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank, water pump, and thermostat housing are common failure points. Overheating can lead to severe engine damage.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and oil filter housing gaskets are prone to leaking.
Subframe Mounts:
Rear subframe mounting points can crack or tear the chassis sheet metal, especially on M3 models. A critical inspection point.
Suspension Bushings:
Worn control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, and shock mounts are common, affecting handling and ride comfort.
Electrical Issues:
Window regulators, central locking, and various sensor failures can occur over time.
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for its focus on performance, driving dynamics, and premium engineering.
E36 Introduction:
The E36 generation replaced the E30 and was produced from 1990 to 2000 (with variations by market). It marked a significant evolution in design, technology, and refinement.
M3 Significance:
The E36 M3 is considered a benchmark sports sedan/coupe of its era, praised for its powerful inline-six engine and balanced chassis.
Production Period:
1992-1998 for the specific models and years covered by this manual.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Dingolfing, Munich)
