🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 135i Year: 2013 Codes Chassis Code: F20 (hatchback), F23 (convertible - though 135i was not typically F23, it's important to note generational differences) Engine Code: N55B30 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact premium sports coupe/convertible Competitive Analysis Competitors: Audi A3, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe/Convertible, Infiniti Q50 (rear-wheel drive variants), Cadillac ATS Key Features Performance Focus: Rear-wheel drive platform, potent turbocharged inline-six engine, sporty handling characteristics Target Audience: Enthusiast drivers seeking a balance of performance, luxury, and BMW's renowned driving dynamics in a smaller package. Brand Philosophy Driving Dynamics: Emphasizes 'Sheer Driving Pleasure' through balanced chassis, potent powertrains, and precise steering. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Regions Covered: Global (primarily North American specifications for a US-market manual) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Official Service and Repair Manual (Software) Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Software (likely PDF, HTML, or proprietary application) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (N55B30), cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system Drivetrain: Transmission (ZF 8HP 8-speed automatic, Getrag 6-speed manual), clutch, differential, drive axles, transfer case (if applicable) Chassis: Suspension (front strut, rear multi-link), steering system, braking system (ABS, DSC, EBD), wheels, tires Electrical: Engine control unit (ECU), body control module (BCM), comfort electronics, lighting, infotainment system, diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams Body And Interior: Body panels, doors, windows, seats, climate control, airbags, safety restraint systems Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant replacement Diagnostics: Troubleshooting common issues, fault code interpretation (DTC), diagnostic tool usage, symptom-based diagnostics Repair: Component removal and installation, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper and rotor replacement, electrical component testing and replacement Special Procedures: Software updates, module programming, key coding, diagnostic port access (OBD-II), torque specifications for critical fasteners Wiring Diagrams: Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component overhauls) Diagnostic Tools Required: BMW ISTA/D (Integrated Service Application / Diagnostics) or compatible third-party diagnostic scanner 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Digital Software (likely interactive or searchable PDF) Print Quality Printability: High-resolution, printable pages Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, Twin-Scroll Turbocharged Displacement: 2979 cc (3.0 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 89.6 mm Compression Ratio: 10.2:1 Performance Horsepower: 320 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm Torque: 330 lb-ft @ 1300-5000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Direct Injection (Valvetronic and Double VANOS variable valve timing) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended) Lubrication Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 (BMW Longlife-01 certified) Cooling System Coolant Type: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant Engine Management ECU Type: Bosch DME (Digital Motor Electronics) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: Getrag 6-speed Manual Transmission Optional Type: ZF 8-speed Automatic Transmission (8HP45) Features Automatic Features: Steptronic, Sport Mode, Paddle Shifters Fluid Specifications Manual Fluid Type: MTF LT-3 (Manual Transmission Fluid) Fluid Specifications Automatic Fluid Type: ATF LT-5 (Automatic Transmission Fluid, ZF Lifeguard 8) Final Drive Differential Type: Limited Slip Differential (Optional) Manual Gear Ratios Ratio 1St: 4.110 Ratio 2Nd: 2.320 Ratio 3Rd: 1.540 Ratio 4Th: 1.170 Ratio 5Th: 1.000 Ratio 6Th: 0.840 Ratio Reverse: 3.727 Automatic Gear Ratios Ratio 1St: 5.000 Ratio 2Nd: 3.200 Ratio 3Rd: 2.150 Ratio 4Th: 1.600 Ratio 5Th: 1.220 Ratio 6Th: 1.000 Ratio 7Th: 0.870 Ratio 8Th: 0.690 Ratio Reverse: 3.540 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 171.5 inches (4356 mm) Width: 69.5 inches (1765 mm) Height: 55.4 inches (1407 mm) Wheelbase: 104.7 inches (2659 mm) Weights Curb Weight Manual: ~3439 lbs (1560 kg) Curb Weight Automatic: ~3472 lbs (1575 kg) Cargo Trunk Volume: 13.0 cubic feet (368 Liters) Wheels And Tires Standard Wheel Size: 18-inch alloy Standard Tire Size: 225/40R18 (Front), 245/35R18 (Rear) Bolt Pattern: 5x120 mm 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Overall Rating: Not explicitly rated for this specific model variant, but typical BMW standards apply. Active Features Traction Control: Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Braking Assistance: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist Passive Features Airbags: Front airbags, side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (curtain airbags) Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seat belts with front belt tensioners and force limiters 💡 Technology Features Infotainment System Name: BMW iDrive (CCC or CIC depending on specific options) Features: Navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, USB interface, satellite radio, optional Harman Kardon sound system Driver Assistance Features: Park Distance Control (PDC), optional rearview camera, optional Xenon headlights Connectivity Interface: USB, AUX-in, Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions. Brake Fluid Flush: Every 2 years (regardless of mileage) Spark Plug Replacement: Refer to CBS or typically around 60,000 miles for...
Not explicitly rated for this specific model variant, but typical BMW standards apply.
Active Features
Traction Control:
Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Braking Assistance:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (curtain airbags)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with front belt tensioners and force limiters
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
System Name:
BMW iDrive (CCC or CIC depending on specific options)
Features:
Navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, USB interface, satellite radio, optional Harman Kardon sound system
Driver Assistance
Features:
Park Distance Control (PDC), optional rearview camera, optional Xenon headlights
Connectivity
Interface:
USB, AUX-in, Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years (regardless of mileage)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to CBS or typically around 60,000 miles for iridium plugs.
Engine Air Filter:
Refer to CBS or typically 30,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 8.5 Liters (with heat exchanger)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4
Known Issues
Common Problems:
PCV valve failure (leading to oil leaks or rough idle), turbocharger wastegate rattle, water pump failure, injector issues, high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) concerns (earlier N54, less common on N55 but still possible).
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly check oil levels, use high-quality fuel, maintain a clean engine bay, address minor oil leaks promptly, and follow the CBS maintenance schedule diligently.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Legacy:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) has a long history of producing performance-oriented vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics, dating back to the early 20th century.
Model Evolution
Generation:
F20 (1 Series Hatchback) and related coupe/convertible variants. The 135i represents a high-performance variant within this generation.
Production
Production Years:
The 135i was produced across various generations of the 1 Series, with the N55 engine variant typically associated with the E82 (coupe) and E88 (convertible) generations preceding the F20, and later F22/F23 generations (though the 135i nameplate was largely replaced by M235i/M240i in newer generations). The 2013 model year specifically refers to the later E82/E88 chassis before the F22 transition, or potentially early F20 variants if market specific. The manual will cover the specific chassis code for the 2013 model year.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Vehicle Awards:
While specific awards for the 2013 135i might be varied, the 1 Series and its variants have consistently received praise for driving dynamics and performance in their class from automotive publications like Car and Driver, MotorTrend, and Edmunds.