🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Sub Model: 323i Model Code: E36 Year: 1996 Body Style: Sedan (4-door) Codes Engine Code: M52B25 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The E36 323i represented BMW's core compact executive sedan offering in the mid-1990s, known for its sporty handling and premium feel. This manual is crucial for maintaining that performance. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed against the Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus ES, and Cadillac Seville during its production run. Key Features Vehicle Highlights: Balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive dynamics, refined inline-six engines, driver-focused interior, reputation for build quality. Manual Value Value Proposition: This workshop manual provides professional-level repair and maintenance guidance, enabling owners and technicians to properly service and maintain the complex systems of the E36 323i, ensuring longevity and optimal performance. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Comprehensive service, repair, and diagnostic procedures Secondary Coverage: Maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, wiring diagrams, specifications Page Count Estimated Page Count: Varies significantly by specific edition, typically 1000-2000+ pages for comprehensive workshop manuals Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Print (likely spiral-bound or perfect-bound) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection (DME), ignition system Engine Management: Engine Control Module (DME) operation, sensor inputs/outputs, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), emissions control system Transmission: Manual transmission (Getrag S5D 250G) service, repair, clutch system; Automatic transmission (ZF 5HP18) service, repair, control module (EGS) Drivetrain: Driveshaft, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings Suspension: Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, wheel alignment Brakes: Brake system components (calipers, rotors, pads), hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation and troubleshooting, parking brake Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, linkage Electrical: 12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, fuses and relays, wiring diagrams, instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks) Body And Chassis: Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, chassis lubrication, collision repair basics HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system operation, components, and servicing Fuel System: Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel filter Exhaust System: Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides Major Repairs: Engine rebuilding, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs Electrical Diagnostics: Using wiring diagrams to diagnose electrical faults, testing sensors and actuators Component Replacement: Step-by-step instructions for replacing common parts like alternators, water pumps, fuel pumps, etc. Specifications And Tolerances: Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and electrical schematics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format Details: Likely a physical book, intended for professional workshop use. Digital versions may exist as PDFs. Print Quality Quality: Typically professional printing with clear text and diagrams. Quality may vary based on publisher. Binding Type Binding: Often spiral-bound for lay-flat usability in a workshop environment or perfect-bound. Paper Type Paper: Durable paper stock suitable for workshop conditions, often with glossy pages for diagrams. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Name: M52B25 Engine Type: 2.5L (2494cc) DOHC Inline-6 Bore X Stroke: 84 mm x 75 mm Compression Ratio: 10.2:1 Performance Horsepower: 168 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.) Torque: 245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 3950 rpm (approx.) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch Motronic M5.2 multi-point fuel injection (MPI) Recommended Fuel: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher) Cooling System Coolant Type: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 spec or equivalent) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed Manual (Getrag S5D 250G) Optional Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic (ZF 5HP18) Features Manual Gear Ratios: 1st: 4.23:1, 2nd: 2.51:1, 3rd: 1.67:1, 4th: 1.24:1, 5th: 1.00:1, Reverse: 3.83:1 Automatic Features: Electronic control, Sport and Economy modes Fluid Specs Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW MTF LT-1 or LT-2 (or equivalent spec GL-4/GL-5 SAE 75W-90) Automatic Transmission Fluid: BMW ATF LT-2 or LT-3 (or equivalent spec Dexron III) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4427 mm (174.3 in) Width: 1711 mm (67.4 in) Height: 1373 mm (54.1 in) Wheelbase: 2700 mm (106.3 in) Front Track: 1435 mm (56.5 in) Rear Track: 1453 mm (57.2 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1450 kg (3197 lbs) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 1930 kg (4255 lbs) Towing Capacity: Not typically recommended or specified for this model 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 4-star (driver), 3-star (passenger) - approximate for the era and model generation IIHS Side Impact: Good - approximate for the era and model generation Active Features Active Safety: ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Traction Control System (ASC+T - optional) Passive Features Passive Safety: Driver and passenger front airbags, crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell, side-impact door beams,...