🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Body Style: Sedan Year: 2016 Codes Chassis Code: F30 Engine Codes Common: B48, N20 (depending on specific trim) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Executive Sedan Brand Perception: Known for sporty handling, premium interior, and advanced technology. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Infiniti Q50, Cadillac ATS, Acura TLX. Key Features Driving Dynamics: Rear-wheel drive bias, near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution, engaging driving experience. Technology: iDrive infotainment system, optional advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Interior: Premium materials, driver-focused cockpit, high-quality fit and finish. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Overall Coverage: Comprehensive owner's information for the 2016 BMW 3 Series Sedan. Primary Focus: Operation, features, maintenance, and safety of the vehicle. Page Count Estimated Pages: 400-600 (typical for a modern BMW owner's manual) Manual Type Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system. Drivetrain: Transmission operation (automatic/manual), xDrive all-wheel drive system (if equipped). Chassis: Braking system (ABS, DSC), steering system, suspension system. Electrical: Lighting, instrument cluster, warning indicators, battery, fuses, comfort electronics. Infotainment: iDrive system, navigation, audio, Bluetooth connectivity, climate control. Safety Features: Airbags, seat belts, child seat anchors (ISOFIX), tire pressure monitoring, dynamic stability control. Procedures Included Operation: Starting and operating the vehicle, using controls and features. Maintenance: Checking fluid levels, tire pressure, changing wiper blades, bulb replacement. Troubleshooting: Understanding warning lights and messages, basic troubleshooting steps. Emergency: Procedure in case of breakdown, tire change, using spare tire/repair kit. Technical Depth Depth: Designed for the owner; focuses on safe operation and routine maintenance, not in-depth mechanical repair. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Portable Document Format (PDF) Searchability: Typically text-searchable for efficient information retrieval. Print Quality Printability: High resolution, suitable for printing by the end-user. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Family Common: BMW TwinPower Turbo (Inline-4 & Inline-6) Performance 320I Engine: 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (B48) 320I Horsepower: 180 hp @ 5,000-6,000 rpm 320I Torque: 200 lb-ft @ 1,250-4,000 rpm 328I Engine: 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (N20/B48 depending on production date) 328I Horsepower: 240 hp @ 5,000-6,500 rpm 328I Torque: 255 lb-ft @ 1,250-4,800 rpm 335I Engine: 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 (N55) 335I Horsepower: 300 hp @ 5,800-6,000 rpm 335I Torque: 300 lb-ft @ 1,300-5,000 rpm Fuel System Injection Type: Direct Injection (High Pressure) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 8-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission Optional Transmission Type Optional: 6-speed Manual Transmission (available on select models) Features Transmission Features: Sport mode, manual shifting capability via paddle shifters or selector lever, launch control (on some models). Drivetrain Options: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 182.2 inches (4628 mm) Width: 70.1 inches (1780 mm) Height: 56.3 inches (1430 mm) Wheelbase: 108.7 inches (2760 mm) Cargo Trunk Volume: 15.2 cubic feet (430 liters) Weights Curb Weight Base: 3,461 lbs (1570 kg) for 320i 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Overall Rating: 5-Star (for 2016 3 Series Sedan, generally) IIHS Top Safety Pick: Typically a Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ for this generation, depending on specific equipment. Active Features Stability Control: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Traction Control Braking Assist: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist Driver Assistance Options: Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Forward Collision Warning, Parking Assistant. Passive Features Airbags: Frontal, side-impact, and curtain airbags. Seat Belts: 3-point inertia-reel with pre-tensioners and force limiters. Child Restraints: ISOFIX (LATCH) lower anchor points for rear seats. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: BMW iDrive (typically NBT or related generation) Display Size: 6.5-inch or 8.8-inch central display (option dependent) Control Interface: iDrive Controller knob, steering wheel buttons, voice command, optional touchscreen. Driver Assistance Adas Packages: Driving Assistance Package, Driving Assistance Plus Package (optional, depending on market/build). Connectivity Bluetooth: Standard Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling. Usb Aux: Standard USB/AUX input for audio playback and device charging. Bmw Connecteddrive: Optional services for enhanced connectivity, navigation features, and remote services via smartphone app. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system. Major Service Recommendations: Spark plug replacement typically around 60,000 miles. Brake fluid flush every 2 years. Coolant flush per CBS. Air filter and cabin filter as needed or indicated. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Specification: BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) synthetic oil, viscosity grade typically 0W-30 or 5W-30 depending on climate and engine. Coolant Specification: BMW Blue (G48) Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrate, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Transmission Fluid: Specific ZF Lifeguard fluid for the 8-speed automatic, not user-serviceable in most cases; fluid and filter replacement recommended at higher mileage (~100,000 miles) or...
Driving Assistance Package, Driving Assistance Plus Package (optional, depending on market/build).
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Standard Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling.
Usb Aux:
Standard USB/AUX input for audio playback and device charging.
Bmw Connecteddrive:
Optional services for enhanced connectivity, navigation features, and remote services via smartphone app.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Major Service Recommendations:
Spark plug replacement typically around 60,000 miles. Brake fluid flush every 2 years. Coolant flush per CBS. Air filter and cabin filter as needed or indicated.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) synthetic oil, viscosity grade typically 0W-30 or 5W-30 depending on climate and engine.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue (G48) Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrate, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid:
Specific ZF Lifeguard fluid for the 8-speed automatic, not user-serviceable in most cases; fluid and filter replacement recommended at higher mileage (~100,000 miles) or if experiencing issues.
Known Issues
Common Issues 320I 328I:
Turbocharger issues (oil leaks, wastegate rattle on N20), PCV valve failures, oil filter housing gasket leaks, water pump failures.
Common Issues 335I:
Water pump failure (electric), ignition coil and spark plug issues, turbocharger wastegate issues, VANOS solenoid problems.
Tires Wheels
Tire Sizes Common:
225/50R17, 225/45R18 (front), 255/40R18 (rear) depending on trim and options.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Legacy:
BMW, established in 1916, is renowned for its luxury vehicles, performance engineering, and driving pleasure ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').
Model Evolution
3 Series Legacy:
The 3 Series is BMW's best-selling model line and a benchmark in the compact executive sedan segment since its introduction in 1975. It has consistently evolved to balance sportiness with practicality.
F30 Generation:
The F30 generation (introduced in 2012) marked a significant shift with increased dimensions, more fuel-efficient turbocharged engines, and advanced technology, while retaining core BMW driving dynamics.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced in Munich, Germany; Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA; and other BMW global facilities.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Segment Awards:
The 3 Series has historically won numerous awards for performance, luxury, and value in the compact executive sedan class from publications like Car and Driver, MotorTrend, and Edmunds.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings can vary for specific model years and powertrains; always check the latest Consumer Reports data for the most accurate assessment.
Certifications
Emissions Standards:
Meets current EPA and CARB emissions standards for its model year.