🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 328i Model Variant: 328 Year: 1992 Codes Chassis Code: E36 Engine Code: M50B28 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Premium compact executive sedan. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Lexus ES250. Key Features Driving Dynamics: Renowned for its sporty handling, balanced chassis, and engaging driving experience characteristic of BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos. Engine Performance: The 328i offered a significant power upgrade over previous 3-series models, providing strong acceleration and refined performance. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Complete factory service and repair Page Count Page Count: Hundreds of pages (exact number not specified, implies comprehensive) Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair for M50B28 engine. Engine Management: Engine control unit (ECU), fuel injection (DME), ignition system, emissions control. Transmission Manual: Service and repair of the 5-speed Getrag manual transmission. Transmission Automatic: Service and repair of the ZF 4HP22 or 4HP24 automatic transmission (if applicable to 328i). Drivetrain: Driveshaft, differential, axles, wheel bearings. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, alignment. Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column. Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS, brake fluid, lines, calipers, rotors. Electrical System: Battery, charging system, starter, alternator, lighting, fuses, relays. Body And Chassis: Body panels, doors, windows, glass, trim, chassis components, rust prevention. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components and service. Interior Trim: Dashboard, seats, door panels, headliner, interior components. Diagnostic Troubleshooting: Systematic troubleshooting guides, fault codes, diagnostic procedures. Procedures Included Preventative Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks. Routine Maintenance: Brake adjustments, tire rotation, spark plug replacement. Component Replacement: Detailed instructions for replacing major and minor components. Rebuilding Procedures: Full rebuild procedures for engine, transmission, and other key assemblies. Adjustment Procedures: Alignment, brake adjustment, clutch adjustment (manual). Troubleshooting Diagnostics: Step-by-step diagnostic charts and fault finding sequences. Torque Specifications: Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical components. Wiring Diagrams: Complete electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete overhauls and diagnostics. Diagnostic Tools Required: Includes procedures for using factory diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1, DIS) and common aftermarket tools. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Likely searchable text, enabling quick navigation. Print Quality Printability: High quality, designed for printing specific sections or the entire manual. Binding Type Binding Type: Not applicable (PDF format) Paper Type Paper Type: Not applicable (PDF format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves Engine Code: M50B28 Displacement: 2.8 Liters (2793 cc) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 84.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 Performance Horsepower: 190 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.) Torque: 200 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm (approx.) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch Motronic DME engine management with multi-point fuel injection (MPI). Fuel Type: Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 5-speed Getrag manual transmission. Optional Transmission Type Optional: ZF 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 4HP22 or 4HP24). Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch (manual transmission). Transmission Fluid Manual: BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. Transmission Fluid Automatic: Dexron III/Mercon or equivalent ATF (check specific ZF application). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 106.3 inches (2700 mm) Length: 174.5 inches (4432 mm) Width: 67.7 inches (1720 mm) Height: 55.2 inches (1402 mm) Front Track: 56.5 inches (1435 mm) Rear Track: 57.1 inches (1450 mm) Weights Curb Weight Manual: Approx. 3260 lbs (1479 kg) Curb Weight Automatic: Approx. 3350 lbs (1520 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Varies by specific model and options. Cargo Trunk Volume: Approx. 15.1 cubic feet (428 liters) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this vintage in a comparable manner to modern vehicles. BMW typically engineered for occupant safety. Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all four wheels. Traction Control: Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) available on some models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver's side airbag standard. Passenger airbag generally optional or not available for 1992 model year. Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for all occupants. Body Construction: Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones, side-impact protection beams. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory BMW radio/cassette system, often with optional CD player. Upgrades common. Climate Control: Manual or optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control). Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard or optional cruise control system. Onboard Computer: Optional Check Control system or On-Board Computer (OBC) providing basic vehicle status and trip data. Connectivity Connectivity Features: Limited by 1992 standards; primarily focused on basic vehicle functions. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles...
Factory BMW radio/cassette system, often with optional CD player. Upgrades common.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control).
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control system.
Onboard Computer:
Optional Check Control system or On-Board Computer (OBC) providing basic vehicle status and trip data.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Limited by 1992 standards; primarily focused on basic vehicle functions. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed, typically every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., platinum or standard copper).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 to 3 years or 30,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic Engine Oil (BMW Longlife-98 or equivalent).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue/Green Coolant (G48) or equivalent silicate-free antifreeze/coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Coolingsystem:
Plastic cooling system components (e.g., expansion tank, water pump impellers) can become brittle and prone to cracking/leaks.
Vanos:
Variable valve timing (VANOS) system can suffer from seal degradation, leading to rough idle, poor low-end torque, and rattling noises.
Oil Leaks:
Common oil leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and front/rear main seals.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in control arm bushings and sway bar bushings leading to clunks and imprecise handling.
Heater Core:
Heater core leaks can cause coolant to enter the cabin, producing a sweet smell and fogged windows.
Window Regulators:
Power window regulators can fail, often due to plastic guide failure.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is a German luxury and performance automobile manufacturer, known for its emphasis on driving dynamics and engineering excellence.
Model Evolution
E36 Introduction:
The E36 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 1990 for the 1991 model year, replacing the E30. The 328i model specifically debuted later in the E36's lifecycle.
328I Placement:
The 328i was positioned above the 325i, offering a larger displacement engine and increased power, slotting into the premium performance sedan market.
Production
Production Period:
E36 generation produced from 1990 to 2000. The 328i model was primarily produced from model year 1995-1999 in many markets, but this manual covers the specific 1992 model year introduction (likely as a precursor or early release, with the common 328i M52 engine appearing later).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Acclaim:
The E36 chassis in general received numerous awards and critical acclaim for its chassis dynamics, engine performance, and build quality, setting benchmarks in the compact executive class.
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