🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series (E90 Sedan)

Model Line:

3 Series

Chassis Code:

E90 (Sedan)

Applicable Years:

2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010

Body Styles Covered:

Sedan

Engine Codes Likely Covered:

N52B25, N52B30, N54B30, M54B30 (early 2006), N46B20 (in certain markets)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

BMW owners, independent repair shops, DIY enthusiasts seeking professional-level repair information.

Advantage:

Official factory manual provides superior accuracy and completeness compared to aftermarket publications.

Value Proposition:

Enables significant savings on labor costs by empowering owners to perform their own maintenance and repairs.

Searchability:

PDF format allows for easy keyword searching to quickly locate specific information.

Illustration Quality:

Features detailed illustrations, drawings, photos, and enlarged inset views for clarity.

Navigation:

Numbered table of contents for rapid information retrieval.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete factory service and repair for BMW E90 Sedan

Secondary Coverage:

Troubleshooting, maintenance, diagnostics, all repair procedures

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (exact number not specified but implied to be comprehensive)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Source:

Genuine Factory Manuals (not 3rd party)

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Delivery Method:

Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service Repair:

Includes detailed procedures for engine assembly, disassembly, diagnostics, and repair for various engine variants.

Transmission Service Repair:

Covers both manual and automatic transmission service, repair, overhaul, and fluid specifications.

Brake System:

Detailed coverage of braking system components, maintenance, repair, bleeding procedures, and specifications.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.

Electrical System:

In-depth diagnostic and repair procedures for all electrical components and systems.

Suspension:

Service and repair procedures for front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications.

Periodic Lubrication:

Guidelines for lubrication points, fluid types, and service intervals.

Steering:

Repair and maintenance of steering system components, power steering, and alignment.

Cooling System:

Service and repair of radiator, coolant, water pump, thermostat, and related components.

Fuel Injection Fuel System:

Diagnostics, repair, and maintenance of fuel delivery, injection systems, and fuel pump.

Emission System:

Information on emission control systems, catalytic converters, and diagnostic procedures.

Heater Air Conditioning:

Service and repair for HVAC systems, including refrigerant and component diagnostics.

Engine Control System:

Details on ECU, sensors, actuators, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Chassis Body:

Information on chassis structure, body panels, doors, and associated repairs.

Restraint System:

Coverage of airbags, seatbelts, and related safety systems.

Interior:

Procedures for interior trim removal, installation, and component servicing.

Differential Drive:

Service and repair of rear differential and drive axles.

Axle:

Specific procedures for front and rear axle maintenance and repair.

General Maintenance:

Routine maintenance procedures and schedules.

Troubleshooting:

Advanced troubleshooting guides and diagnostic strategies for common and complex issues.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all vehicle systems.

Maintenance Procedures:

Detailed guidance on all scheduled and preventative maintenance tasks.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Comprehensive diagnostic workflows and troubleshooting trees.

Rebuilding Overhaul:

Procedures for major component overhauls (engine, transmission, differentials).

Tuning Modifications:

While primarily a service manual, it provides foundational knowledge beneficial for tuning.

Depth:

Complete factory-level technical detail for technicians and advanced DIYers.

Detail Level:

Includes detailed substeps, notes, cautions, warnings, numbered instructions, and callouts for illustrations.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Works on all PC-based Windows operating systems and Mac.

Portability:

Can be saved to hard drive and burned to CD-ROM.

Printability:

Printable without restriction, individual pages or the entire manual.

Resolution:

High resolution PDF.

Binding:

Digital Download (PDF), no physical binding.

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital File)

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Families Likely Covered:

N52 (Naturally Aspirated Inline-6), N54 (Twin-Turbocharged Inline-6), M54 (Older Inline-6 in early 2006 models), N46 (4-cylinder in some markets)

Representative Performance 325I:

Approx. 215-218 hp, 200-215 lb-ft torque (N52B25/B30)

Representative Performance 328I:

Approx. 230-235 hp, 210-220 lb-ft torque (N52B30)

Representative Performance 330I:

Approx. 255-270 hp, 220-255 lb-ft torque (N52B30/N54B30)

Representative Performance 335I:

Approx. 300 hp, 300 lb-ft torque (N54B30)

Fuel Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Direct Injection (Di) on N54 models.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission Options:

6-speed Getrag GS6-37DZ (e.g., 325i, 328i, 330i), 6-speed ZF GS6-53DZ (e.g., 335i)

Automatic Transmission Options:

6-speed ZF 6HP19 (e.g., 325i, 328i, 330i), 6-speed ZF 6HP28 (e.g., 335i)

Transmission Features:

SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) was an option on some earlier models, but less common on E90 post-facelift. Steptronic functionality on automatics.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 108.7 inches (2760 mm)

Length:

Approximately 179.1 inches (4550 mm)

Width:

Approximately 69.2 inches (1757 mm)

Height:

Approximately 56.2 inches (1428 mm)

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 3400 - 3700 lbs (1542 - 1678 kg) depending on engine and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5 Stars (for 2006-2010 models)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (multiple years within the generation)

Active Safety Features:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Brake Assist.

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (air curtains), advanced seatbelt systems with pretensioners and force limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

iDrive system with various iterations throughout the production years, featuring navigation (CCC/CIC), radio, CD player, and optional auxiliary/USB input.

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional features could include: Parking Distance Control (PDC), Adaptive Headlights, Rain-sensing wipers, Cruise Control.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, optional USB/Auxiliary audio inputs.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically variable, based on 'Condition Based Service' (CBS) system, often around 10,000-15,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific engine/oil types.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Recommended every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Service:

BMW typically uses long-life coolant; replacement intervals vary but can be upwards of 50,000-100,000 miles. Refer to manual for specific type and interval.

Engine Oil Type Common:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oils, typically 0W-30 or 5W-30, depending on climate and specific engine. Consult manual for exact specification.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue or Pink antifreeze/coolant concentrate mixed with distilled water (typically 50/50 ratio).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 rated gear oil, specific viscosity grade (e.g., 75W-90) recommended. Refer to manual.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

BMW ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) approved, specific type like ATF LT-3 or ATF LT-5. Refer to manual and service history.

Common Issues E90:

Valve cover gasket leaks, oil filter housing gasket leaks, PCV system issues (especially on N52/N54), water pump failure (electric on later models), ignition coil and spark plug issues, VANOS solenoid failures, fuel injector issues (especially on N54 direct injection), electric steering column issues, HVAC blower motor resistor failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

BMW is renowned for performance, luxury, and driving dynamics, often referred to as the 'Ultimate Driving Machine'.

E90 Generation Introduction:

The E90 generation replaced the E46 3 Series and marked a significant step forward in technology, design, and performance.

Facelift:

A significant facelift (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse) occurred for the 2009 model year, introducing updated styling, engines, and technology.

Production Years Global:

2005-2011 (E90 Sedan)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary assembly in Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), also South Africa, and contract assembly in other locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The BMW 3 Series (including E90 variants) was frequently named to Car and Driver's 10Best list during this period, highlighting its continued excellence.

Ward Best Engines:

BMW's inline-6 engines (N52 and N54) received multiple Wards 10 Best Engines awards during the E90's production run.