🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Variant:

328i

Year:

1998

Chassis Code:

E36

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW 3 Series (E36) represented BMW's commitment to sporty handling, sophisticated engineering, and premium build quality in the compact executive sedan/coupe segment. The 328i was a popular performance-oriented variant.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus IS200/IS300 (later models), Alfa Romeo 155, Saab 900/9-3.

Vehicle Key Features:

Rear-wheel drive bias, excellent weight distribution, responsive engines, refined interiors, advanced (for its time) suspension and chassis dynamics, sporty driving experience.

Manual Value:

This factory service manual provides authorized repair information, specifications, and procedures directly from BMW, enabling owners and technicians to perform accurate and efficient maintenance and repairs, preserving the vehicle's performance and longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Type:

Factory Service Repair

Page Count:

Hundreds

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, fuel injection (DME), ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system, intake system, engine diagnostics and troubleshooting.

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission (Getrag S5D 320Z), automatic transmission (ZF 5HP18), clutch system, driveshafts, differentials, driveline diagnostics and repair.

Brake Systems:

Front and rear brake systems (vented discs), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, component replacement.

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (MacPherson strut, control arms), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering system (rack and pinion), power steering.

Electrical Systems:

Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, starter system, charging system, battery specifications, lighting systems (headlights, taillights), instruments and displays, body electronics.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, interior trim, convertible top operation (if applicable), chassis components, jacking and lifting points.

HVAC Climate Control:

Air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, heater core, blower motor, climate control modules, refrigerant specifications.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil and filter changes, coolant flushes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, brake fluid replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Repair Procedures:

Engine component overhauls, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, shock absorber replacement, exhaust system repair, starter and alternator replacement.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting common electrical and mechanical issues, reading diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), using diagnostic tools, pinpoint testing.

Special Procedures:

Timing belt replacement (if applicable, though the M52B28 is chain-driven), valve adjustment, fuel injector testing, ABS bleeding, DME re-flashing (with appropriate tools).

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic routine maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Downloadable PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M52B28

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2793 cc)

Horsepower:

190 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

206 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm

Fuel Injection Type:

Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic M5.2)

Block Material:

Aluminum

Head Material:

Aluminum

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent silicate-free ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors)

Oil Type Spec:

BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) or SAE 5W-30 / 10W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil

Ignition System:

Distributorless electronic ignition with coil-on-plug or coil-near-plug.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed manual (Getrag S5D 320Z)

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic (ZF 5HP18)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch

Atf Type:

ZF LifeguardFluid 5 or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible ATF

Drive Layout:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

174.5 inches (4432 mm)

Width:

67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

53.6 inches (1362 mm)

Wheelbase:

106.0 inches (2690 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3200-3400 lbs (1450-1540 kg), depending on body style and equipment.

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 14.5 cubic feet (410 liters) for sedan.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Standard Wheel Size:

15x7.0 inches (Style 15) or 16x7.0 inches (Style 16)

Standard Tire Size:

205/60R15 or 225/50R16

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Rating:

Specific ratings for 1998 model are difficult to ascertain consistently across all tests, but the E36 platform was designed with significant safety features for its era. Generally considered safe for its class.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Optional: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, crumple zones, side-impact protection beams, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Base models featured an AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional upgrades included CD players, premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon), and early forms of navigation systems (BMW Professional Navigation).

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) was available, enhancing traction and stability.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on the vehicle's internal systems. Optional cellular phone integration was available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 to 15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendations based on BMW LL-98).

Air Filter Interval:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (more frequently in dusty conditions).

Spark Plug Interval:

Typically every 60,000 miles (iridium or platinum plugs).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles, depending on coolant type.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

BMW Power Steering Fluid (or Pentosin CHF 11S)

Common Wear Items:

Cooling system components (plastic expansion tank, water pump, hoses), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system issues (rattling on startup), oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets, rear subframe mounting points, window regulator failures, ABS sensor failures.

M52B28 Specific Issues:

While generally robust, the M52 is susceptible to the VANOS solenoid failing, causing rough idle and power loss. Oil pan gasket and valve cover gasket leaks are common due to age and material degradation.

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 US quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 US quarts (8.0 Liters)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage Focus:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, performance-oriented luxury vehicles, often referred to as the 'Ultimate Driving Machine'.

E36 Generation Context:

The E36 generation (1991-1999) marked a significant modernization of the 3 Series, introducing more advanced technology, improved aerodynamics, and a larger, more refined chassis compared to its E30 predecessor. The 328i replaced the 325i as the larger-six cylinder option in later E36 years.

Production Years For Model:

The 328i variant was produced from model year 1996 through 1999 for the US market.

Manufacturing Plants:

Primarily produced at BMW's Dingolfing plant in Germany. Some assembly may have occurred in other global locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

The E36 3 Series, in general, received numerous accolades from automotive publications for its driving dynamics, build quality, and overall performance, frequently appearing on 'Ten Best' lists from sources like Car and Driver.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Consumer Reports typically rated E36 models highly for performance and reliability in the 1990s, though some years and specific components might have had average or below-average predicted reliability scores in later years due to age.