🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

335i xDrive

Year:

2012

Chassis Code:

E90 (Sedan), E91 (Wagon/Touring), E92 (Coupe), E93 (Convertible)

Engine Code:

N55B30

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2012 BMW 335i xDrive was positioned as a premium sport sedan/coupe/convertible offering a blend of performance, luxury, and all-weather capability, competing with models like the Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C350 4MATIC, and Infiniti G37x.

Competitive Analysis:

This generation (E90/E91/E92/E93) of the 3 Series was lauded for its driving dynamics, potent engine options, and refined interior. The xDrive variant specifically addressed buyers seeking enhanced traction and stability in diverse climates.

Key Features:

Powerful N55 engine, xDrive all-wheel drive, available in sedan, coupe, and convertible body styles, advanced chassis dynamics, premium interior appointments, sophisticated electronics.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Full service, repair, maintenance, diagnostics, troubleshooting, and electrical system schematics for the 2012 BMW 335i xDrive.

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for official workshop manuals of this era).

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary viewer)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (N55B30 twin-scroll turbo inline-6), Drivetrain (xDrive All-Wheel Drive), Transmission (ZF 8-speed automatic or Getrag 6-speed manual), Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS, DSC, DTC), HVAC, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Electrical System (ECU, body control modules, lighting, sensors), Interior Systems, Exterior Body, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts).

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled service, engine diagnostics and repair (including turbocharger, injectors, ignition), transmission service and overhaul, driveline component inspection and repair, brake system service and bleeding, suspension and steering component replacement, HVAC system troubleshooting and repair, electrical system diagnostics, wiring diagrams, body panel removal and installation, interior trim removal, safety system checks and calibration.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting trees, component specifications, torque values, and special tool requirements.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely searchable PDF or proprietary software platform with hyperlinked sections and diagrams.

Print Quality:

High-resolution diagrams, schematics, and text. Designed for clarity and ease of reading on screen or when printed.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-Cylinder, Twin-Scroll Turbocharged

Engine Displacement:

2979 cc (3.0 Liters)

Engine Code:

N55B30

Horsepower:

300 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm

Torque:

300 lb-ft @ 1200-5000 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Direct Injection (High-Pressure)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

ECU Type:

Bosch DME (Digital Motor Electronics)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP45)

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Manual (Getrag GS6-53DZ)

Drive System:

xDrive All-Wheel Drive System (Active torque distribution)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW P/N 83 22 2 147 477 (or equivalent spec from ZF, e.g., Lifeguard 8)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW P/N 83 22 0 309 031 (or equivalent MTF LT-2)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Sedan (E90): 181.8 in, Coupe (E92): 181.8 in, Convertible (E93): 181.1 in

Width:

Sedan/Coupe/Convertible: 70.5 in

Height:

Sedan (E90): 56.3 in, Coupe (E92): 55.7 in, Convertible (E93): 56.3 in

Wheelbase:

Sedan/Coupe/Convertible: 108.7 in

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3700-3900 lbs (depending on body style and transmission)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4700-4800 lbs

Trunk Capacity:

Sedan: 12.0 cu ft, Coupe: 12.0 cu ft (approx., down with folded rear seats), Convertible (top up): 13.1 cu ft

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Generally received 5-star ratings in NHTSA crash tests for frontal and side impacts in sedan configuration.

IIHS Rating:

Typically awarded 'Top Safety Pick' by the IIHS.

Active Safety Features:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Xenon Adaptive Headlights (optional).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection airbags (curtain), active front head restraints, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters, roll-over protection system (for convertible).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

iDrive Controller with 7-inch or optional 8.8-inch display. Features include navigation (optional), radio, CD/DVD player, Bluetooth connectivity, USB integration.

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional: Parking Distance Control (PDC), rearview camera, adaptive cruise control (ACC), head-up display (HUD).

Connectivity Features:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB/Auxiliary input for audio devices.

Lighting Technology:

Standard Xenon headlights with LED accent lights. Optional Adaptive Xenon headlights that follow steering input.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically indicates oil changes every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions.

Major Service Interval:

CBS will indicate major services such as spark plug replacement (approx. 60,000 miles), brake fluid flush (every 2 years), coolant flush (approx. every 4 years).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40, BMW LL-01 or LL-04 approved synthetic oil.

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.9 US quarts (6.5 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue (G48) Antifreeze/Coolant concentrate mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 (BMW High Performance or equivalent)

Known Issues:

Water pump failure (electric pump), ignition coil and spark plug issues, turbocharger wastegate rattle, oil filter housing gasket leaks, fuel injector failures, PCV valve issues, potential for carbon buildup on intake valves. The manual will detail diagnosis and repair for these.

Oil Filter Part Number:

BMW P/N 11 42 7 953 129 (or aftermarket equivalent)

Engine Air Filter Part Number:

BMW P/N 13 71 7 535 103 (or aftermarket equivalent)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, is a German luxury and performance automobile manufacturer founded in 1916. Known for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan and a long history of producing engaging driving experiences.

Model Evolution:

The 3 Series is BMW's best-selling model line, consistently setting benchmarks for sporty handling and driver engagement in the compact executive car segment. The E90 generation (2006-2011, with some models extending to 2013 for coupe/convertible) represented a significant technological and design update from its E46 predecessor.

Production Years:

E90/E91 Sedan/Wagon: 2006-2011; E92 Coupe: 2007-2013; E93 Convertible: 2007-2013.

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (primarily Dingolfing and Munich), as well as assembly plants in other countries.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The 3 Series, including variants like the 335i, has historically received numerous awards for performance, handling, and luxury from automotive publications such as Car and Driver, MotorTrend, and Automobile Magazine.

Ratings:

Consistently rated highly for driving dynamics and engine performance within its segment.