🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

X3

Year:

2006

Market Segment:

Compact Luxury SUV

First Generation Codes:

E83

Generation Year Range:

2003-2010

Chassis Code:

E83

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2006 BMW X3 was positioned as a compact luxury SUV, offering BMW's signature driving dynamics and premium features in a versatile, all-wheel-drive package.

Competitors 2006:

Audi Q5 (later models), Lexus RX, Mercedes-Benz GLK (later models), Acura RDX, Land Rover LR2.

Performance Orientation:

Emphasized sporty handling and driver engagement, characteristic of BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, adapted for an SUV platform.

X Drive AWD:

Standard xDrive all-wheel-drive system, providing enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions.

Versatility:

Combined the practicality of an SUV with the comfort and luxury expected from a BMW, suitable for both urban commuting and light off-road excursions.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

2006 BMW X3 2.5i, 2006 BMW X3 3.0i

Page Count:

133

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Primary Systems:

Vehicle operation, controls, safety systems, basic maintenance, troubleshooting, information specific to 2.5i and 3.0i variants.

Operational Procedures:

Starting and driving, climate control operation, infotainment system usage, lighting controls, seat and mirror adjustments, locking mechanisms, fuel filling.

Basic Maintenance Procedures:

Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks and inflation, bulb replacement, wiper blade replacement.

Diagnostic Depth:

Basic user-level troubleshooting for common warning lights and indicators. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic codes.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Adobe PDF

Printability:

Fully printable pages

Binding Type:

Digital (N/A - printable)

Paper Type:

Digital (N/A - printable)

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within PDF (dependent on original scan quality).

Operating Systems:

Windows, macOS

⚙️ Engine Specifications

2.5I Engine:

Naturally aspirated 2.5L Inline-6 (M54B25)

3.0I Engine:

Naturally aspirated 3.0L Inline-6 (M54B30)

2.5I Horsepower:

184 hp @ 6,000 rpm

2.5I Torque:

175 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm

3.0I Horsepower:

225 hp @ 6,000 rpm

3.0I Torque:

214 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic fuel injection (EFI) with sequential port injection.

Valve Train:

Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing).

Coolant Type:

BMW recommends BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. (Specific part numbers not detailed in this summary, consult manual for exact specs).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-speed manual transmission (available on some models/markets).

Optional Transmission:

6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission with adaptive transmission control (ATC).

AWD System:

xDrive all-wheel-drive system, electronically controlled.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW recommends specific synthetic ATF approved for their Steptronic transmissions. Consult manual for exact fluid type and part number. Use of incorrect fluid can cause severe damage.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

109.7 inches (2787 mm)

Length:

177.4 inches (4506 mm)

Width:

73.0 inches (1854 mm)

Height:

65.4 inches (1661 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

Approximately 24.6 cubic feet (697 liters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

Approximately 56.1 cubic feet (1588 liters)

Curb Weight 2.5I:

Approx. 3,814 lbs (1730 kg)

Curb Weight 3.0I:

Approx. 3,858 lbs (1750 kg)

Standard Wheel Size:

17-inch alloy wheels (common, specific designs varied by package/trim)

Tire Size Examples:

235/55R17 (common fitment, consult manual for precise options)

Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Center Bore:

72.6 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

Five-star rating (driver and passenger) for frontal crash tests.

IIHS Side Impact Test:

Good rating in side impact tests.

Traction Control:

Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).

Braking System:

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

Airbags Front:

Front-seat airbags for driver and front passenger, with dual-threshold deployment.

Airbags Side:

Front-seat mounted side-impact airbags and front and rear head protection system (curtain airbags).

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with belt tensioners and force limiters for all seating positions.

Child Seats:

ISOFIX/LATCH child seat anchorage system.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Professional Radio or optional Business or Professional Navigation systems.

Display Screen:

Central information display (CID) in the dashboard, often paired with iDrive controller for navigation and infotainment access (if equipped).

Parking Sensors:

Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) for front and rear.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Auxiliary Input:

Optional auxiliary audio input for connecting external devices.

Headlights:

Halogen headlights with optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system dictates intervals, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Refer to vehicle's CBS display for specific recommendation.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Recommended every two years, regardless of mileage.

Air Filter Replacement:

Typically recommended every 30,000-40,000 miles, or as indicated by CBS.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended around 100,000 miles for the M54 engines, but consult manual and CBS for exact timing.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 synthetic engine oil meeting BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) specifications. Consult manual for precise BMW approval number.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) for 3.0L, 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters) for 2.5L (including filter). Consult manual for exact capacity with filter change.

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW recommends Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid. Consult manual for exact specification.

Ccv System Failure:

The Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system can fail, leading to oil leaks and increased oil consumption. Replacement is often recommended with updated parts.

Valve Cover Gasket Leaks:

Common for the M54 engines to develop leaks from the valve cover gasket due to age and heat, resulting in oil smells or visible leaks.

Cooling System Components:

Plastic cooling system components like expansion tanks and water pumps can become brittle and leak over time.

Transfer Case Actuator:

Issues with the xDrive transfer case actuator can sometimes arise, impacting AWD functionality.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW, a German automotive manufacturer, has a long-standing reputation for producing high-performance luxury vehicles, renowned for their driving dynamics and engineering excellence.

X3 Introduction:

The X3 was introduced in 2003 (as a 2004 model year in North America) as BMW's second SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle), following the larger X5. It was developed to compete in the growing compact luxury SUV segment.

E83 Facelift:

The E83 generation received a significant facelift for the 2007 model year, introducing updated styling, revised engines, and technology enhancements. The 2006 model represents the pre-facelift version.

Manufacturing Location:

Primary production for the E83 X3 took place at BMW's plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Award Type Early Models:

While specific awards for the 2006 model year might vary, the X3 series in its early iterations was generally praised for its engaging driving dynamics and luxury appointments within the compact SUV segment.