🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Variant:

328i

Model Year:

1994

Chassis Code:

E36

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan

Brand Perception:

Known for sporty handling, premium build quality, and sophisticated engineering.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus ES300, Acura TL.

Handling:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and precise steering.

Engine:

Smooth and torquey inline-six engine, offering a good blend of performance and refinement.

Build Quality:

High-quality interior materials and solid construction characteristic of BMW.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds (specific count not provided in product info, common for factory manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed overhaul, diagnosis, and repair for the M50B28 engine, including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, and timing components.

Engine Management:

Diagnosis and repair of the Bosch Motronic engine management system (DME), including fuel injection, ignition timing, sensor readings (MAF, O2, crank, cam), and actuator control.

Transmission Manual:

Repair, overhaul, and troubleshooting for the Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission.

Transmission Automatic:

Diagnosis and repair of the ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission (if equipped).

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, differential, axle shafts, and CV joints.

Suspension:

Front struts, rear shocks, control arms, sway bars, bushings, and wheel bearings.

Steering:

Power steering system components, steering rack, tie rods, and alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid specifications, rotor and pad replacement, caliper overhaul, and bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, fuse and relay locations, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, and accessory circuits.

Climate Control:

HVAC system components, refrigerant, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, and heater core.

Body Interior:

Door panels, seats, headliner, dashboard, trim, and related fasteners.

Body Exterior:

Bumpers, fenders, hood, trunk lid, doors, glass, and seals.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using BMW diagnostic equipment (e.g., GT1, DIS) and interpreting fault codes (OBD-I).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant checks, and brake fluid replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, including symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing major components like water pump, alternator, starter, fuel pump, and suspension parts.

Engine Rebuild:

Complete instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, machining, and reassembly, including torque specifications and clearances.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, multimeters, and continuity testers.

ABS Diagnosis:

Specific diagnostic procedures and repair steps for the ABS system.

Fuel System Service:

Fuel injector cleaning/replacement, fuel filter replacement, and fuel pressure testing.

Emission Control:

Information on emission control systems, components, and troubleshooting.

Alignment Procedures:

Specifications for wheel alignment and procedures for adjustments.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Typically searchable text, allowing for quick keyword-based navigation.

Printability:

Designed to be printable, with clear text and diagrams for individual page or full document printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Downloadable PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Downloadable PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M50B28

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, 24-valve, DOHC

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2793 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 81.0 mm

Horsepower:

190 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

205 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 ethylene glycol-based)

Oil Capacity:

6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed Manual

Transmission Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic

Manual Clutch:

Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 (or equivalent specification)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW Synchromesh Fluid (or equivalent API GL-4 specification)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2700 mm (106.3 inches)

Length:

4433 mm (174.5 inches)

Width:

1711 mm (67.4 inches)

Height:

1370 mm (53.9 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1440 kg (3175 lbs) for manual transmission

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 1900 kg (4189 lbs)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Standard Tire Size:

205/60R15

Optional Tire Size:

225/50R16 (M Sport Package/Option)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact:

Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific year and model, but E36 chassis generally considered robust.

ABS:

Standard (Bosch 2-channel ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control + Traction)

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear.

Body Structure:

Reinforced passenger cell with crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted BMW radio/cassette/CD player, often with premium sound options (e.g., Harman Kardon).

Display:

Basic dashboard display for climate control, radio, and warning lights. No integrated navigation or complex screens.

Cruise Control:

Optional.

OBD Port:

OBD-I diagnostic port, requiring specific BMW connectors and scanners for advanced diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (based on BMW's service indicator system).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles depending on spark plug type (copper vs. long-life).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (using BMW Blue coolant).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years (DOT 4 fluid recommended).

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 (high-performance)

Cooling System:

Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack; water pump failure (plastic impeller).

Vanos System:

Single VANOS unit can develop seal leaks, leading to rough idle or loss of low-end torque.

Fuel Pump Delivery:

Fuel pumps can degrade over time, leading to hard starting or stalling.

Rear Subframe:

Mounting points for the rear subframe can crack or fatigue, requiring reinforcement.

Electrical Connectors:

Corrosion or degradation of electrical connectors, especially in the engine bay.

Air Filter P N:

Typical Part Numbers: MANN-FILTER C 25 013, MAHLE LX 48

Oil Filter P N:

Typical Part Numbers: MANN-FILTER HU 716/2x, MAHLE OX 149

Cabin Filter P N:

Typical Part Numbers: MANN-FILTER CUK 25 013

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Identity:

BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) has a long-standing reputation for producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles with excellent driving dynamics.

E36 Generation:

The E36 generation replaced the E30 3 Series and was produced from 1990 to 2000. The 328i was introduced later in the E36's lifecycle.

328I Introduction:

The 328i variant, featuring the larger 2.8L M50 engine, replaced the 325i in some markets for the 1996 model year in North America, but the 1994 model year here likely refers to specific European market configurations or a potential naming convention variation, or an early release model. The M52 2.8L engine (which superseded the M50B28) became more prominent in later E36 models.

Production Period:

E36 3 Series: 1990-2000. Specific 328i production for 1994 varies by region.

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), Austria (Graz), South Africa, Mexico, Thailand, Egypt.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E36 General Recognition:

The E36 platform received numerous accolades for its driving dynamics, styling, and engineering throughout its production run.

Car And Driver Best:

Often featured on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists in various configurations during its era.