OBD-II diagnostic codes and interpretation, component testing.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Detailed wiring diagrams and guided troubleshooting steps for electrical faults.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Detail Level:
Includes torque specifications, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing procedures, and wiring schematics.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval.
Print Quality
Print Recommendation:
High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or entire sections.
Binding Type
Binding Type For Printed:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type For Printed:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
M52B28
Engine Type:
DOHC Inline 6-cylinder
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2793 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84 mm x 91 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Performance
Horsepower:
190 hp @ 5300 rpm
Torque:
200 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M5.2 electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (91+ Octane)
Cooling System
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 250G)
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic (ZF 5HP18)
Features
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Rear Differential:
Limited Slip Differential (LSD) often optional depending on trim/package.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
174.5 inches (4433 mm)
Width:
67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height:
54.8 inches (1392 mm)
Wheelbase:
106.3 inches (2700 mm)
Front Track:
57.6 inches (1463 mm)
Rear Track:
58.2 inches (1478 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Manual:
3351 lbs (1520 kg)
Curb Weight Automatic:
3395 lbs (1540 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
4409 lbs (2000 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Not Recommended
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4/5 stars
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4/5 stars
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (Bosch 2S ABS system)
Traction Control:
Optional (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control + Traction)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with front pretensioners.
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced passenger safety cell.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory cassette or CD player with optional premium sound system.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system (BCD 43 or MK I/II).
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors were an option on some models.
Connectivity
Onboard Computer:
Optional Check Control system and On-Board Computer (OBC) providing trip data and vehicle status.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or annually, or as indicated by the Oil Service Indicator (CCID) system.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles for standard plugs, or 100,000 miles for long-life plugs.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (BMW LL-98 approved is ideal).
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 US quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent G48 ethylene glycol based).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (API GL-4 or GL-5).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 (or approved equivalent).
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or Dexron III ATF (check specific model requirements).
Known Issues
Vanos System:
Vanos (Variable Valve Timing) seals can degrade, leading to rough idle, loss of low-end torque, and potential starting issues. Repair kits are available.
Cooling System:
Plastic thermostat housings and expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Water pump failure is also common.
Oil Pan Gasket:
Rear main seal and oil pan gasket leaks are prevalent with age and mileage.
Subframe Mounts:
Rear subframe mounting points can crack or fail, especially in harsh environments. This is a critical safety issue.
Window Regulators:
Power window regulators are a common failure point, often resulting in the window falling into the door.
Door Panel Clips:
Door panel clips can break during removal, making reinstallation difficult.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Philosophy:
Ultimate Driving Machine - emphasis on performance, engineering, and driver engagement.
Model Evolution
E36 Generation:
The E36 generation (1990-2000) represented a significant advancement over the E30, featuring more refined styling, improved chassis dynamics, and modern amenities.
328I Introduction:
The 328i model replaced the 325i in North America for the 1996 model year, offering a larger displacement and more powerful M50/M52 engine.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary production in Dingolfing, Germany; some assembly in Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
E36 3-series models were frequently recognized on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during their production run for their driving dynamics.
Ratings
Edmunds Review:
Consistently praised for its sporty handling, powerful engine, and quality interior for its era.
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