Segment:
Premium compact executive sedan
Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Acura TL
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive bias, and engaging driving experience.
Powertrain:
Smooth and powerful inline-six engine, sophisticated transmissions.
Interior:
Driver-focused cockpit, high-quality materials, premium feel.
Engine:
Complete diagnostics, repair, overhaul, component replacement
Transmission:
Automatic (Steptronic) and Manual: diagnostics, fluid services, component repair
Brakes:
ABS, DSC, brake fluid service, pad/rotor replacement, caliper repair
Suspension:
Struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, alignment
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic procedures for all modules
HVAC:
Climate control system, refrigerant service, component replacement, diagnostics
Body And Frame:
Panel replacement, collision repair procedures, door/window mechanisms
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure, emissions controls
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications, bleeding procedures
Exhaust System:
Component replacement, catalytic converter information, emissions
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed maintenance schedules and procedures
Troubleshooting:
Extensive diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair And Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for major and minor repairs, including engine and transmission rebuilds
Component Replacement:
Instructions for replacing virtually all serviceable parts
Diagnostic Tool Usage:
Information on using BMW's diagnostic systems (e.g., ISTA/D) and specific fault codes
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostics, repair, and specifications
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder (I6)
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2497 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
82.0 mm x 78.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
Valvetrain:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
215 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque:
185 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic (Specific variant for N52)
Type:
6-Speed Manual (GS6-37BZ)
Type:
6-Speed Steptronic Automatic (GA6HP19Z)
Steptronic Operation:
Manual shifting mode via selector lever or steering wheel paddles (if equipped)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-5 (or equivalent spec, e.g., Shell M-1375.4)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent spec)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star
IIHS Front Crashworthiness:
Good
Traction Control:
Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Brakes:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags, head protection airbags (curtain)
Seatbelts:
Pretensioners and force limiters
I Drive System:
Optional iDrive system with central controller and LCD screen for navigation, audio, climate, and vehicle settings.
Audio System:
Various options including standard Hi-Fi system, Logic7 surround sound system.
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) on some models.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free system.
Usb Aux:
Auxiliary audio input typically standard, USB connectivity may vary by option package.
Oil Change:
Condition-based service (CBS) via oil quality sensor, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.
Brake Fluid:
Every 2 years
Engine Air Filter:
Every 30,000-40,000 miles (or as per CBS)
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (or as per CBS)
Spark Plugs:
Typically around 60,000 miles for the N52 (check manual for exact spec)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 or LL-01 FE approved)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Common Problems:
Water pump failure (plastic impeller prone to cracking), ignition coil failure, VANOS solenoids, oil separator (crankcase vent) issues, coolant expansion tank leaks, oil filter housing gasket leaks.
Manufacturer:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW), Germany
E90 Introduction:
The E90 generation marked a significant redesign from the E46, introducing more modern styling, advanced technology, and the new N52 engine.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Main), South Africa, China (for local markets)
