🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Variant:

330xi

Model Year:

2006

Chassis Code:

E90 (Sedan)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Premium Compact Executive Sedan

Target Audience:

Enthusiast owners, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics seeking professional-level repair information.

Competitors 2006:

Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Lexus IS250/IS350, Acura TL.

Vehicle Strengths:

Driving dynamics, performance, build quality, advanced technology for its time, xDrive all-wheel drive system.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides official, detailed technical data enabling accurate diagnosis and repair, potentially saving significant costs compared to dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software/Digital (likely PDF or proprietary software)

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (injection, pumps, injectors), intake system, exhaust system, emissions control.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system, ECU/DME (Digital Motor Electronics) diagnosis and troubleshooting, sensor and actuator testing, wiring diagrams.

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (e.g., GA6HP19Z) overhaul, torque converter, valve body, solenoids, transmission control unit (TCM) diagnosis, fluid and filter replacement. Manual transmission (if applicable, though 330xi often auto) overhaul, clutch, shifter.

Drivetrain:

xDrive All-Wheel Drive system components, front and rear differentials, transfer case, drive shafts, CV joints, wheel bearings, hub assemblies.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bars), steering system (rack and pinion, power steering pump, tie rods), wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Brake system components (calipers, rotors, pads, brake lines, master cylinder, ABS unit, DSC - Dynamic Stability Control), bleeding procedures, parking brake system.

Electrical Body:

Lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, mirrors, wiper system, horn, central locking, alarm system, comfort access features.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components (compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, control modules), refrigerant handling, climate control system diagnostics.

Interior:

Dashboard removal, seat removal, trim panel replacement, airbag system components and safety precautions.

Body Exterior:

Body panel replacement, door repair, bumper repair, glass replacement, sealing, painting preparation.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance procedures (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush), service interval reset procedures.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, fault code interpretation (DTCs), common problem diagnosis and repair strategies for various systems.

Repair Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for disassembly, component replacement, and reassembly of all major vehicle systems.

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) information, using diagnostic tools, reading and clearing fault codes, live data stream analysis.

Electrical Wiring:

Complete, high-quality wiring diagrams for all vehicle electrical systems, component location charts, connector pinouts.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers basic owner maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics and programming (though programming may require dealer-level tools).

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Software Application (likely installer or executable for PC)

Searchability:

High (typically includes full-text search capabilities)

Printability:

Likely printable pages or sections

Image Resolution:

High resolution for diagrams and illustrations

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital Software)

Paper:

Not Applicable (Digital Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

N52B30

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder

Displacement:

2996 cc (3.0 Liters)

Horsepower:

255 hp @ 6600 rpm

Torque:

214 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm

Redline:

7000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), port injection

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)

Valve Train:

Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing), Valvetronic (variable valve lift)

Block Material:

Aluminum

Head Material:

Aluminum

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (GA6HP19Z)

Transmission Type:

6-speed Manual Transmission (Rare for 330xi, but possible)

Automatic Modes:

Sport and Manual shifting modes

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW Blue Esso LT 71141 (or equivalent ATF approved for ZF HP transmissions)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

181.8 inches (4618 mm)

Width:

71.5 inches (1816 mm)

Height:

56.7 inches (1441 mm)

Wheelbase:

108.7 inches (2760 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3571 lbs (1620 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4586 lbs (2080 kg)

Trunk Volume:

12.0 cu ft (340 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

5 Stars

IIHS Front Small Overlap Driver:

Good

IIHS Side Impact:

Good

IIHS Roof Strength:

Good

Traction Control:

Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Braking Assistance:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist.

Airbags:

Frontal airbags (driver/passenger), side-impact airbags (front), head protection system (front and rear).

Seatbelts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters.

💡 Technology Features

I Drive System:

iDrive Controller with central LCD display (CCC - Car Communication Computer)

Audio Options:

CD player, AM/FM radio, optional Sirius Satellite Radio, optional Harman Kardon premium audio.

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with integrated ABS, Traction Control (ASC+T)

Parking Aids:

Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC)

Connectivity Features:

Bluetooth hands-free calling (optional, with appropriate TCU module), USB audio interface (optional, often added later or via aftermarket solutions).

Headlights:

Standard Halogen Projector or optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights with Angel Eyes

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system dictates intervals, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions. Manual will detail CBS reset.

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 2 years (regardless of mileage)

Engine Air Filter:

Every 30,000-45,000 miles or as per CBS

Cabin Air Filter:

Every 15,000-20,000 miles or annually

Spark Plugs:

Typically every 60,000 miles for the N52 engine (pre-2008 models may have longer intervals).

Engine Oil:

SAE 0W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 or LL-01 FE approved)

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based), 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid

Common Issues:

Cracked plastic intake manifold (N52), PCV valve failure and oil consumption, water pump failure (electric on later N52 variants but often mechanical on early E90), VANOS solenoid issues, oil filter housing gasket leaks, rear main seal leaks, cooling system leaks (hoses, expansion tank).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Performance, luxury, engineering, driving pleasure ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').

E90 Introduction:

The E90 generation of the 3 Series was introduced for the 2006 model year, representing a significant redesign from the E46 generation.

E90 Innovations:

Introduction of electric power steering on some models, advanced engine technologies (Valvetronic, VANOS), sophisticated electronic systems, and the xDrive all-wheel-drive system became more integrated.

Production Plant:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA (for North American market).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Ward Auto Worlds 10 Best Engines:

The N52 engine family received multiple Ward's 10 Best Engines awards during its production run, including for the 3.0L variant used in the 330i/xi.

Car And Driver 10Best:

The BMW 3 Series (E90 generation) was frequently recognized on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production years.