🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

X3

Year:

2011

Trim Levels:

xDrive28i, xDrive35i

Body Styles:

SUV (Sports Activity Vehicle)

Product Name:

BMW 2011 X3 xDrive 28i 35i Operators Owners Owner Manual

Manual Product Description:

BMW Owners Operators Owner Manual

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW X3 in 2011 was positioned as a premium compact luxury SUV, offering a blend of driving dynamics, versatility, and upscale features characteristic of the BMW brand.

Competitors:

Competed against vehicles like the Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class, Acura RDX, and Lexus RX.

Design:

The F25 generation X3, launched for the 2011 model year, introduced a larger, more sophisticated design compared to its predecessor, with improved interior space and higher-quality materials.

Drivetrain:

Standard xDrive all-wheel-drive system, emphasizing BMW's renowned driving dynamics even in an SUV format.

Technology:

Features like the iDrive infotainment system, available navigation, and a range of driver assistance options.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive owner's information for BMW X3 (F25 chassis generation) models.

Estimated Page Count:

300-450

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual / Operator's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine operation, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication.

Transmission:

Automatic transmission operation, shifting modes, fluid level check (where applicable).

Chassis:

Braking system, steering system, suspension system, xDrive all-wheel-drive system operation.

Electrical:

Lighting system, power accessories, battery maintenance, fuse box locations and identification.

Climate Control:

HVAC system operation, automatic climate control features, air recirculation.

Infotainment:

iDrive system operation, audio system, navigation (if equipped), Bluetooth connectivity.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seat belt usage and adjustments, child seat installation (ISOFIX/LATCH), ABS, DSC.

Driver Assistance:

Cruise control, parking sensors (PDC), optional features like lane departure warning or adaptive headlights.

Body And Exterior:

Doors, windows, mirrors, sunroof, roof rack preparation, paint care.

Interior:

Seating adjustments, interior lighting, storage compartments, instrument cluster and controls.

Regular Maintenance:

Oil change intervals, tire pressure checks, fluid level checks (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, washer fluid).

Emergency Procedures:

Flat tire changing, jump starting, overheating, towing instructions.

Dashboard Indicators:

Explanation of warning lights and their meaning.

Key Fob Operation:

Locking/unlocking, starting the vehicle, remote functions.

Setting Preferences:

Personalization settings via iDrive for climate, audio, lighting, etc.

Information Display:

Interpreting the trip computer, fuel economy, range.

Depth:

Primarily focused on owner operation, routine maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Printed booklet

Print Quality:

High-quality, durable paper with clear text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

Perfect bound or saddle-stitched, depending on original manufacturer binding.

Paper Type:

Glossy or matte finish paper suitable for automotive manuals.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder

Displacement:

3.0 Liters (2996 cc)

Engine Code:

N52B30

Horsepower:

240 hp @ 6600 rpm

Torque:

220 lb-ft @ 2750-5000 rpm

Engine Type:

Turbocharged Inline-6 Cylinder

Displacement:

3.0 Liters (2979 cc)

Engine Code:

N55B30

Horsepower:

300 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque:

300 lb-ft @ 1300-5000 rpm

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)

Fuel Injection:

Direct Injection (Both Engines)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Xdrive28I:

8-Speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission

Transmission Type Xdrive35I:

8-Speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission

Drivetrain:

xDrive All-Wheel Drive (Standard on all models)

Shift Modes:

Steptronic manual shifting capability via gear selector or paddle shifters (if equipped).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

178.5 inches (4534 mm)

Width:

72.4 inches (1839 mm)

Height:

64.4 inches (1636 mm)

Wheelbase:

108.5 inches (2756 mm)

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:

27.6 cu ft (781 L)

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:

63.0 cu ft (1785 L)

Curb Weight Xdrive28I:

approx. 3,891 lbs (1765 kg)

Curb Weight Xdrive35I:

approx. 4,025 lbs (1826 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

5-Star (for models tested)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (for models tested)

Dynamic Stability Control:

Standard (DSC)

Anti-Lock Braking System:

Standard (ABS)

Electronic Brakeforce Distribution:

Standard (EBD)

Traction Control:

Standard

Airbags:

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

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with front belt force limiters and pre-tensioners.

Child Seat Anchors:

ISOFIX/LATCH system for rear seating positions.

💡 Technology Features

System:

BMW iDrive Controller with a high-resolution display. Features can include radio, CD player, USB/Auxiliary input, optional navigation, and Bluetooth hands-free calling.

Parking Assistance:

Park Distance Control (PDC) with visual and audible warnings. Optional rearview camera.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control. Optional Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go functionality (on later models or as an option).

Bluetooth:

Bluetooth hands-free interface for phone calls. Optional music streaming via Bluetooth.

Usb:

USB/Auxiliary audio input for connecting external media devices.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable, based on BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. The manual will explain how to interpret the CBS indicators.

Brake Fluid Service:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Air Filter:

Recommended replacement typically between 30,000-45,000 miles, or as indicated by CBS.

Cabin Microfilter:

Recommended replacement typically between 15,000-20,000 miles or annually.

Engine Oil Xdrive28I:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-01 FE (LL-01 FE) approved synthetic oil, typically 0W-30 or 5W-30. Consult manual for specific part numbers like BMW TwinPower Turbo SAE 0W-30.

Engine Oil Xdrive35I:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-01 FE (LL-01 FE) approved synthetic oil, typically 0W-40 or 5W-30. Consult manual for specific part numbers like BMW TwinPower Turbo SAE 5W-30.

Coolant:

BMW BlueCoolant (G48), a silicate-containing ethylene glycol based antifreeze. Never use plain water. Specific part number: BMW Part No. 83 51 2 355 290.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 PLUS or equivalent. Specific part number: BMW Part No. 83 13 0 028 028.

Transmission Fluid:

Specific to the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. Often uses Pentosin ATF1 or a BMW-approved equivalent. Consult manual for exact specification.

Common Issues General:

Potential for oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket), water pump failure (especially on N55 engines), PCV system issues, and some electrical gremlins. The manual won't detail these but provides preventative care guidance.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, is a German luxury vehicle manufacturer with a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, performance, and driving pleasure.

Generation F25 Launch:

The 2011 X3 marked the debut of the second generation (F25) X3, replacing the E83 generation. It was significantly redesigned with a larger footprint and more modern amenities.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA, and also in Austria.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Award IIHS:

The 2011 BMW X3 was a recipient of the IIHS Top Safety Pick award, acknowledging its strong performance in crash tests.

Kbb Consumer Ratings:

Generally high consumer satisfaction ratings for performance, luxury, and utility. (Specific ratings vary by source and year).