Vehicle Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan
Target Demographic:
Consumers seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and practicality.
Key Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Infiniti G37/Q50.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive bias (or xDrive AWD), and engaging driving experience.
Powertrain Options:
Smooth and powerful inline-six engine, refined transmissions.
Interior Quality:
High-quality materials, driver-focused cockpit, premium amenities.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emission control.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission service, diagnosis, and repair.
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differentials, wheel bearings, CV joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, steering rack.
Brakes:
Brake system, hydraulic lines, ABS, DSC, brake pad and rotor replacement, bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, power distribution, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, chassis components.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service and repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), common faults.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, fluid checks and top-offs.
Component Replacement:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic approaches to diagnose and resolve common and uncommon issues.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Information on using diagnostic tools and interpreting sensor data.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical data.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems.
Depth Of Coverage:
In-depth coverage suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts, including disassembly, assembly, and calibration.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-cylinder
Displacement:
2.996 Liters (2996 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
12.0:1
Valvetrain:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing), VALVETRONIC
Horsepower:
230 hp @ 6600 rpm
Torque:
200 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Direct Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.9 Liters (7.3 US Quarts)
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 Synthetic
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48)
Transmission Type:
8-Speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Automatic Features:
Adaptive shift logic, manual mode via shift lever or paddle shifters (if equipped).
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW ATF 3, ATF 6, or equivalent approved fluid (e.g., ZF Lifeguard 8)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW MTF LT-3 or equivalent approved fluid
NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:
5 Stars (Overall)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (Depending on specific test year and configuration)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)
Braking Assist:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist
Driver Assistance:
Optional: Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Parking Assistant.
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags, knee airbags (driver).
Seatbelts:
Pretensioning front seatbelts, LATCH child seat anchors.
Infotainment System:
BMW iDrive System (CCC or CIC depending on specific options and production date)
Display Screen Size:
Typically 7-inch or 8.8-inch central display.
Audio Options:
Standard BMW Professional Radio, optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, optional Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go.
Parking Sensors:
Front and rear Park Distance Control (PDC) standard or optional.
Bluetooth:
Standard Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Usb Interface:
USB/Auxiliary input for audio devices.
Navigation System:
Optional BMW Professional Navigation System.
Oil Change Interval:
Condition-based service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. Refer to iDrive service indicator.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Air Filter:
Check every 30,000 miles, replace as needed based on inspection (CBS).
Cabin Microfilter:
Replace every 20,000-30,000 miles or annually (CBS).
Spark Plugs:
Replace at approximately 60,000 miles (refer to CBS).
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 9.5 Liters (10.0 US Quarts)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 (BMW High Performance DOT 4 or equivalent)
Common Problems:
PCV valve issues, oil filter housing gasket leaks, coolant expansion tank leaks, fuel injector problems, electric water pump failure.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly check for oil leaks, monitor coolant levels, adhere to the CBS service schedule.
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, engineering excellence, focus on performance and driver engagement.
3 Series Legacy:
Long-standing reputation as a benchmark for sport sedans since the E21 generation.
F30 Introduction:
The F30 generation replaced the E90, introducing updated styling, more efficient powertrains, and advanced technology.
Production Locations:
Mainly Germany (e.g., Munich, Dingolfing), but also Mexico and South Africa depending on specific models/markets.