Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS300, Acura TL
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive dynamics, and engaging driving experience.
Engine Type:
Inline-six cylinder engine, a hallmark of BMW's engineering.
Build Quality:
High-quality materials and robust construction characteristic of BMW vehicles.
Engine Mechanical:
Full disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures for the M54B25 inline-six engine.
Engine Management:
Diagnosis and repair of DME (Digital Motor Electronics), fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control systems (SAE J1850 PWM, ISO 9141-2).
Transmission Manual:
Repair and overhaul of manual gearboxes (e.g., Getrag S5D 250G).
Transmission Automatic:
Repair and overhaul of automatic transmissions (e.g., GM 5L40-E).
Drivetrain:
Front suspension, rear axle, driveshafts, CV joints, differentials, wheel bearings.
Braking System:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair, brake fluid specifications.
Steering System:
Power steering system diagnosis, repair, and fluid specifications; steering rack and linkage.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter motor, alternator, battery, fuses, relays, lighting systems, body control module (BCM).
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant, compressor, blower motor, control panel repair.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, doors, windows, locks, exterior trim, chassis component tightening torque specifications.
Interior Systems:
Seats, airbags, dashboard, instrument cluster, interior trim removal and installation.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake pad/rotor service.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step guides for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems.
Overhaul Procedures:
Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Component testing, circuit continuity checks, ECU troubleshooting.
Bodywork Repair:
Panel alignment, dent removal, rust repair, glass replacement.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics.
Transmission Type Std:
5-Speed Manual (e.g., Getrag S5D 250G)
Transmission Type Opt:
5-Speed Automatic (e.g., GM 5L40-E)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent (check specific model)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for applicable models/years)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for applicable models/years)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Asc:
Optional Automatic Stability Control (ASC)
Dsc:
Optional Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front pre-tensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-15,000 miles or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Major Service:
Around 60,000 miles, including spark plugs, coolant, and comprehensive inspection.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) synthetic oil, 5W-30 or 0W-30 recommended.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (BMW Premium Brake Fluid recommended)
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank failures, coolant hose leaks, water pump issues.
Oil Leaks:
VPC (Valve Cover Gasket) leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, O-ring seals on VANOS and oil filter housing.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings ('bushings'), sway bar links, rear subframe bushings.
Electrical:
ABS/ASC sensor failures, VANOS solenoid issues, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failure leading to oil consumption.
Interior:
Pixelation on instrument cluster displays, sagging headliner.
