Segment:
Compact Executive Sport Wagon
Competitors:
Audi A4 Avant, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Wagon, Volvo V70
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned BMW handling, rear-wheel drive bias (with xDrive optional on some models), balanced chassis.
Practicality:
Versatile cargo space, comfortable seating for five, premium interior appointments.
Powertrain:
Smooth inline-six engines, efficient inline-four options, responsive transmissions.
Engine:
Complete engine systems including diagnostics, repair, overhaul, cooling, lubrication, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control.
Transmission:
Detailed coverage of manual and automatic transmissions, clutch, torque converter, gear shift mechanisms, and related hydraulics/electronics.
Drivetrain:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, drive shafts, differential, wheel bearings, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (discs and pads), ABS, DSC, parking brake, hydraulic lines, bleeding procedures.
Electrical:
Comprehensive electrical system schematics, fuse box diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, wipers, horn, power accessories, diagnostic codes.
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, glass, convertible top (if applicable), chassis and frame repair.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, refrigerant handling, component testing and replacement.
Body Electronics:
Central locking, power windows, sunroof, instrument cluster, warning lights, comfort electronics.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting, error code interpretation.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair across all major vehicle systems.
Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds, including component specifications and tolerances.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters, electrical resistance values.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls, including electronic diagnostics.
Engine Codes:
M52B25, M52B28, M54B25, M54B30, M43B19, M43B18
Displacement Range:
1.8L to 3.0L
Horsepower Range:
118 hp to 231 hp
Torque Range:
170 Nm to 280 Nm
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 equivalent)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 250G/260/5)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Steptronic Automatic (GM 5L40-E)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent like Castrol BOT 0063)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III / Mercon (or BMW approved equivalent)
Length:
Approx. 4471 mm (176.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1739 mm (68.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1407 mm (55.4 in)
Cargo Volume:
Approx. 430-465 liters (15.2-16.4 cu ft), expandable with rear seats folded.
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1400-1550 kg (3086-3417 lbs)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2725 mm (107.3 in)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Good (for sedans of the era, wagons may vary slightly)
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction)
Stability Control:
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) available on later models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Head Unit Options:
BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD RDS, optional navigation system (CCC).
Speaker System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear park distance control (PDC).
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free system (via snap-in adapter).
Oil Change:
Typically 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, based on Condition Based Service (CBS) system or manual recommendation.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) for long-life platinum/iridium plugs.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (e.g., BMW Longlife-01 compliant)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (e.g., DOT 4 Plus)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW ATF Dexron III equivalent.
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank leaks, water pump failures, thermostat housing cracks, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) seal wear.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings, rear trailing arm bushings, ball joints, strut mounts.
Electrical:
CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system issues leading to oil leaks, ABS/DSC sensor failures, headlight condensation.
Engine Specific:
Oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, spark plug well sealing issues.
