Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance-oriented drivers, luxury sedan buyers
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus ES (XV10), Infiniti I30
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for balanced handling, RWD platform, near 50/50 weight distribution
Powertrain:
Smooth and responsive inline-six engine, durable transmissions
Build Quality:
High-quality interior materials and solid construction
Design Era:
Represents the classic BMW E36 design language
Engine Mechanical:
Comprehensive
Engine Performance:
Detailed
Ignition System:
Complete
Transmission Manual:
Complete (Getrag 260/5)
Transmission Automatic:
Complete (ZF 5HP18)
Drivetrain:
Complete (Rear Wheel Drive)
Steering System:
Complete
Brake System:
Complete (ABS)
Electrical System:
Comprehensive (Wiring Diagrams)
Body And Chassis:
Complete
Safety Features:
Complete
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Extensive
Torque Specifications:
Detailed
Wiring Diagrams:
Included
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Print Capability:
Printable in entirety or select pages
Searchability:
Searchable text
Engine Management:
DME (Digital Motor Electronics) M5.2
Emissions Control:
Complete
Traction Control:
ASC+T (optional)
Instrument Cluster:
Complete
Lighting System:
Complete
Power Windows Locks:
Complete
Remote Keyless Entry:
Complete
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed procedures and intervals
Engine Rebuild:
Complete procedures (disassembly, assembly, testing)
Transmission Overhaul:
Complete procedures
Brake Pad Replacement:
Detailed
Cooling Fan Replacement:
Detailed
Alternator Replacement:
Detailed
Starter Motor Replacement:
Detailed
Spark Plug Replacement:
Detailed
Fuel Injector Testing:
Detailed
Suspension Component Replacement:
Detailed (e.g., control arms, ball joints)
Wheel Alignment Specifications:
Included
Diagnostics Troubleshooting Flowcharts:
Extensive
OBD-Ii Diagnosis:
Included
Body Panel Repair Replacement:
Detailed
Depth:
Factory level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/5)
Type:
4-Speed Automatic (ZF 5HP18)
Automatic Shift Modes:
Standard, Sport (likely)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent GL-4 (e.g., Pentosin MTF.1)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF LifeguardFluid5 (or Dexron III H)
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD or RDS Radio Cassette Player (optional CD changer)
Speakers:
6-speaker system standard, Hi-Fi system optional
Parking Sensors:
Rear Parking Distance Control (PDC) - Optional
Onboard Computer:
Optional OBC (On-Board Computer) with basic functions (e.g., MPG, range)
System:
Manual Climate Control standard, Automatic Climate Control optional
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific BMW recommendations)
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approx. 100,000 miles for iridium plugs (check manual for original spec)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles
Automatic Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 60,000 miles, though BMW historically advised 'lifetime' fluid (manual will specify)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (BMW LL-98 approved)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48 Ethylene Glycol based)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank, water pump, thermostat housing, and radiator are prone to cracking/leaks.
Suspension:
Vibrations from driveshaft (guibo), worn control arm bushings, and shock mounts are common.
Electrical:
Water pump relay failure, MAF sensor issues, and alternator problems.
Interior:
Sagging headliner, worn driver's seat bolster, dead pixels on the instrument cluster OBC.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump failure, clogged fuel injectors.
Engine Mechanical:
VANOS unit issues (rattling or reduced performance), oil pan gasket leaks.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long history of producing driver-focused, performance-oriented vehicles
E36 Generation:
The E36 generation of the 3 Series was produced from 1990 to 1999 (sedan) and introduced significant advancements over its predecessor (E30).
328I Introduction:
The 328i replaced the 325i in the US market for the 1996 model year, offering a larger displacement and more powerful M50/M52 engine.
Production Location:
Germany (Main Plant: Dingolfing)
Production Years E36:
1990-1999 (Sedan)
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E36 3 Series, including variants like the 328i, was frequently recognized on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production run.
Driving Enthusiast Magazine Ratings:
Consistently praised for driving dynamics and handling by automotive journalists of the era.