🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series Sedan

Year:

2015

Chassis Code:

F30

Model Generation:

F30/F31/F34 (2011-2019)

Body Style:

Sedan

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW 3 Series Sedan (F30) is a cornerstone of the premium compact executive sedan segment, known for its sporty driving dynamics, refined interior, and advanced technology. It competes directly with rivals like the Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Lexus IS.

Competitive Analysis:

In 2015, the F30 3 Series was highly regarded for its balance of performance and comfort, offering a more driver-focused experience than many competitors. Its sophisticated engine options and optional xDrive all-wheel-drive system provided broad appeal.

Key Features:

The 2015 3 Series Sedan (F30) introduced efficient yet powerful turbocharged engines, an updated iDrive infotainment system, and a range of advanced driver assistance systems, solidifying its reputation as a class leader.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive owner's manual covering all aspects of vehicle operation, maintenance, and safety features for the 2015 BMW 3 Series Sedan.

Page Count:

Estimated 300-400 pages (typical for a BMW owner's manual of this era).

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Manual (likely softcover)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system.

Chassis:

Suspension, steering, braking system (including ABS, DSC), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Battery, lighting, fuses, wipers, power windows, mirrors, starting and charging system.

Interior Systems:

Climate control (HVAC), seating adjustment, interior lighting, door locks, security system.

Infotainment & Electronics:

iDrive system, audio system, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, instrument cluster functions.

Safety Systems:

Airbags, seat belts, child seat anchors (ISOFIX), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), tire pressure monitoring.

Routine Checks:

Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure check and adjustment.

Basic Maintenance:

Information on when to perform checks, filter changes, and fluid top-offs between scheduled services.

Warning Indicators:

Explanation of dashboard warning lights and their meaning, guidance on immediate actions.

Driver Assistance Features:

Operation of features like cruise control, parking assist (if equipped), and driving modes (ECO PRO, COMFORT, SPORT).

Emergency Procedures:

Information on changing a tire, jump starting the vehicle, and using emergency braking systems.

Technical Depth:

Owner-centric; focuses on safe operation, basic maintenance, and understanding vehicle features and alerts. Does not include detailed diagnostic or repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Printed)

Print Quality:

Professional OEM quality, clear text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

Perfect Binding or Staple Binding (common for owner's manuals).

Paper Type:

Durable, matte-finish paper designed for frequent handling.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Common:

N20B20 (for 320i/328i), N55B30 (for 335i)

Engine Type 320I:

2.0L Inline-4 TwinPower Turbocharged Petrol

Horsepower 320I:

181 hp @ 5,000–6,000 rpm

Torque 320I:

200 lb-ft @ 1,250–4,000 rpm

Engine Type 328I:

2.0L Inline-4 TwinPower Turbocharged Petrol

Horsepower 328I:

240 hp @ 5,000–6,500 rpm

Torque 328I:

255 lb-ft @ 1,250–4,800 rpm

Engine Type 335I:

3.0L Inline-6 TwinPower Turbocharged Petrol

Horsepower 335I:

300 hp @ 5,800–6,000 rpm

Torque 335I:

300 lb-ft @ 1,300–5,000 rpm

Acceleration 0 60 328I:

Approx. 5.4 seconds (RWD, automatic)

Fuel Delivery:

Direct Injection (High-Precision Injection)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 320I 328I:

8-Speed Automatic Steptronic

Transmission Type 335I:

8-Speed Automatic Steptronic (standard on 335i Sedan and Wagon)

Transmission Optional 320I 328I:

6-Speed Manual (RWD only, availability varied by market and trim)

Transmission Optional 335I:

6-Speed Manual (RWD only, availability varied by market and trim)

Transmission Features:

Steptronic function for manual gear selection, Sport mode for enhanced performance, Launch Control (on some models).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 182.5 inches (4638 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.9 inches (1801 mm)

Height:

Approx. 56.3 inches (1430 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 108.7 inches (2760 mm)

Front Headroom:

Approx. 40.3 inches (1024 mm)

Rear Headroom:

Approx. 38.1 inches (968 mm)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 15.1 cubic feet (428 liters)

Curb Weight 328I:

Approx. 3,450 lbs (1565 kg) for RWD Automatic

🛡️ Safety Features

IIHS Rating 2015:

Top Safety Pick (Good ratings in small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, head restraints & seats)

NHTSA Overall Rating 2015:

5-Star Overall Safety Rating (for models tested)

Active Safety Features:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist.

Optional Driver Assistance:

Frontal Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Surround View Camera, Parking Assistant.

Passive Safety Features:

Advanced front airbags, front side-impact airbags, knee airbags, front and rear head protection system (air curtains), active front head restraints, LATCH child seat anchors.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW iDrive (typically CIC or NBT Professional Navigation system depending on options).

Display Size:

6.5-inch or 8.8-inch central display screen.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth for audio streaming and hands-free calling, USB input for music and device charging, optional AUX input.

Driver Assistance Features:

Standard: Dynamic Stability Control, Traction Control. Optional: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning, Parking Assistant, Head-Up Display (HUD).

Connectivity Platform:

BMW ConnectedDrive Services (optional, depending on package) enabling features like real-time traffic information, online portal access, and smartphone app integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends oil changes every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions.

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 60,000 miles for 4-cylinder engines and 100,000 miles for 6-cylinder engines, but varies by specific engine and conditions.

Engine Air Filter:

As per CBS, often around 30,000 miles or when indicated.

Cabin Air Filter:

As per CBS, often around 20,000 miles or annually, or when indicated.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil. Specific viscosity grade (e.g., 0W-30, 5W-30) depends on engine and climate. Consult manual for exact spec.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification) or equivalent HOAT coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 High Performance (e.g., BMW Part No. 83192455000)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Lifetime fill from factory, but if replacement is needed, use fluids meeting BMW's specific ATF specifications (e.g., for ZF 8HP gearbox, typically ZF Lifeguard 8).

Known Issues Common:

Potential for water pump failure, vacuum pump leaks (on some N20 engines), PCV valve issues, and occasional electronic glitches with iDrive system.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, has a long history dating back to 1916, renowned for producing premium vehicles with a focus on driving pleasure and engineering excellence.

Model Evolution:

The 3 Series has been BMW's benchmark compact executive sedan for decades, evolving from the iconic E21 to the current F30 generation, consistently redefining the segment with performance and innovation.

Production Start F30:

July 2011

Manufacturing Locations:

Mainly BMW's plant in Munich, Germany, and also plants in Mexico and South Africa for certain markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions Example:

The F30 generation of the 3 Series frequently appeared on 'Car and Driver's' 10Best lists and received numerous accolades for its driving dynamics and overall excellence from automotive publications worldwide.