Positioning:
The 2011 BMW 335i xDrive represented BMW's premium sport sedan and coupe offering, competing directly with the Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC, and Infiniti G37x. It was positioned as a performance-oriented luxury vehicle with the added security of all-wheel drive.
Competitors:
Audi A4 3.2 FSI Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C350 4MATIC, Infiniti G37x Sedan/Coupe. The 335i xDrive stood out with its potent twin-scroll turbocharged inline-six, offering superior torque and acceleration compared to most naturally aspirated competitors.
Engine Performance:
The N55B30 engine's 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque provided exhilarating performance, further enhanced by the xDrive system's enhanced traction.
Xdrive AWD:
BMW's intelligent all-wheel-drive system optimized for rear-wheel bias, providing excellent handling and stability in various weather conditions.
Chassis Dynamics:
Renowned BMW 50/50 weight distribution and refined suspension tuning for a balanced and engaging driving experience.
Engine:
N55 3.0L Twin-Scroll Turbocharged Inline-6 engine (maintenance, repair, diagnostics, performance tuning basics).
Drivetrain:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive system (transfer case, differentials, driveline components, servicing).
Transmission:
ZF 6-speed automatic transmission (GA6HP26Z) and optional 7-speed M-DCT dual-clutch transmission (if applicable for specific trims, though less common on standard 335i xDrive E9x). Fluid specifications, service intervals, troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pad/rotor replacement, fluid flush, component testing.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), alignment specifications, servicing.
Steering:
Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, steering rack, tie rods, power steering fluid (if applicable).
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, sensors, ECUs, module diagnostics.
HVAC:
Climate control system, refrigerant charging, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, troubleshooting.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, exterior trim, interior trim, sealing, structural components.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) procedures, fault code interpretation, diagnostic tool usage (e.g., ISTA/D, INPA), troubleshooting trees.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs.
Component Replacement:
Brake pads and rotors, exhaust components, engine mounts, transmission mounts, suspension components, water pump, thermostat, alternator, starter motor, fuel injectors, ignition coils.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step guides for diagnosing common and complex issues, identifying root causes, using diagnostic tools.
System Calibration:
Steering angle sensor calibration, DSC sensor calibration, adaptive headlight calibration.
Software Updates:
Procedures for engine control unit (ECU) and other module software updates (requires appropriate BMW diagnostic hardware/software).
Depth:
Detailed mechanical and electrical repair procedures, including disassembly, reassembly, torque specifications, special tool requirements, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Wheelbase:
108.7 inches (2761 mm) for Sedan/Coupe, 110.1 inches (2797 mm) for Wagon
Length:
181.8 - 182.5 inches (4618 - 4636 mm) depending on body style
Width:
69.8 inches (1773 mm) to 70.2 inches (1783 mm)
Height:
55.4 inches (1407 mm) for Coupe, 56.3 inches (1430 mm) for Sedan, 57.2 inches (1453 mm) for Wagon
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3700 - 3900 lbs (1680 - 1770 kg) depending on body style and options
Trunk Volume:
12.0 cubic feet (340 Liters) for Sedan, 13.4 cubic feet (380 Liters) for Wagon (with seats up)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for applicable body styles)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for applicable body styles)
Traction Control:
Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), ABS with Brake Assist.
All Wheel Drive:
BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system.
Airbags:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (curtain airbags).
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.
System Name:
iDrive (CCC or CIC controller depending on options)
Features:
Navigation system, radio (AM/FM/Satellite), CD/DVD player, Bluetooth connectivity, optional USB/Auxiliary input.
Features:
Dynamic Cruise Control, optional Parking Distance Control (PDC), optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights, rain-sensing wipers.
Connectivity Options:
BMW Assist with Bluetooth wireless interface, optional TeleService.
Oil Change Interval:
Condition-Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000 - 15,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions.
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Typically around 60,000 miles for N55 engine, but refer to CBS for exact timing.
Coolant Flush Interval:
First replacement around 100,000 miles, then every 50,000-60,000 miles thereafter, or as indicated by CBS.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent (if applicable, check specific model configuration for electric vs. hydraulic).
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Common Faults:
High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failures (early N55s), ignition coil failures, water pump failures, vacuum leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, VANOS solenoid issues, turbocharger wastegate rattle/issues.
Recommendations:
Regularly inspect for oil leaks, clean the MAF sensor, consider preventative replacement of water pump and thermostat around 80,000-100,000 miles, ensure proper ventilation to avoid crankcase pressure issues.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building performance-oriented luxury vehicles with exceptional driving dynamics and engineering prowess since its inception in 1916.
3 Series Lineage:
The 3 Series has been BMW's core model line since the 1970s, evolving through multiple generations (E21, E30, E36, E46, E90/E91/E92/E93, F30/F31/F34/F35). The E90 generation (2006-2011) marked a significant technological advancement with features like direct injection and electric power steering.
E90 Generation Years:
2006-2011 (facelifted in 2008 for North America)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany (e.g., Dingolfing, Munich) and also at BMW plants in South Africa and Regensburg.