🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: M3 Sedan Year: 2011 Generation: E90 (Second Generation M3 Sedan) Chassis Code: E90 Specific Variant: Sedan with iDrive 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The 2011 BMW M3 Sedan (E90) represented the pinnacle of performance and luxury in the compact executive sedan segment, directly competing with high-performance variants from Audi (S4) and Mercedes-Benz (C63 AMG). It was positioned as a driver-focused sedan offering exceptional track capability and everyday usability. Competitive Analysis Competitors: • Audi S4 (B8) • Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG (W204) • Cadillac CTS-V (First Generation) Key Features Features: • High-revving naturally aspirated V8 engine • Exceptional chassis tuning and handling • Optional M-DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) • Sport-oriented interior with M-specific accents • Advanced iDrive infotainment system • Sedan practicality with M performance 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Areas Covered: • Introduction • Instrument Cluster • Entertainment Systems • Climate Controls • Lights • Driver Controls • Locks and Security • Seating and Safety Restraints • Driving • Customer Assistance • Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only) • Cleaning • Maintenance and Specifications • Engine Compartment • Engine Oil • Battery • Fuel Information • Air Filter(s) • Part Numbers • Refill Capacities • Lubricant Specifications • Accessories • Service Information and Specifications • Maintenance Information and Specifications Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for this generation's owner's manual) Manual Type Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Systems: • Engine operation and monitoring • Instrument cluster indicators and warnings • iDrive infotainment system (navigation, audio, communication) • Automatic and manual climate control systems • Exterior and interior lighting functions • Power windows, mirrors, and seats • Central locking and alarm system • Airbags and seatbelt systems • Driving dynamics control (e.g., M Dynamic Mode) • Basic troubleshooting and warning light explanations • Vehicle cleaning and care • Routine maintenance procedures • Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid • Battery maintenance and jump-starting • Fuel recommendations and tank capacity • Air filter identification • Fluid refill capacities • Lubricant specifications (engine oil, transmission fluid, etc.) • Accessory installation guidance • Service intervals and recommendations Procedures Included Procedures: • Understanding dashboard and warning lights • Operating and customizing the iDrive system • Adjusting climate control settings • Using the lighting system effectively • Controlling power accessories • Securing the vehicle and understanding alarm features • Proper use of safety restraints • Safe driving practices and tips • Performing basic checks (oil level, tire pressure) • Refilling essential fluids • Jump-starting the vehicle • Understanding service indicators • Recommended maintenance schedules • Identifying and ordering replacement parts (via part numbers listed) • Cleaning interior and exterior surfaces • Understanding general vehicle operation Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive owner-level information covering operation, basic maintenance, and system understanding. Does not include in-depth diagnostic or repair procedures typically found in a service manual, but provides critical specifications for maintenance. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF Print Quality Quality: Digital, factory-sourced (implies high fidelity to original print) Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: S65B40 Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated V8 Displacement: 3,999 cc (4.0 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 92.0 mm x 75.2 mm Compression Ratio: 12.0:1 Performance Horsepower: 414 hp (309 kW) @ 8,300 rpm Torque: 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) @ 3,900 rpm Redline: 8,400 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended) Throttle System: Individual throttle bodies (8 per engine) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 6-speed Manual Transmission Optional Type: 7-speed M-DCT (Double Clutch Transmission) Features M Dct Features: Drivelogic (adjustable shift characteristics), Launch Control, automatic rev-matching on downshifts Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW MTF LT-3 (or equivalent specification) M Dct Fluid: BMW DCTF-1 (or equivalent specification) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 188.0 inches (4,775 mm) Width: 71.0 inches (1,803 mm) Height: 57.0 inches (1,448 mm) Wheelbase: 113.7 inches (2,890 mm) Front Track: 62.1 inches (1,578 mm) Rear Track: 61.2 inches (1,554 mm) Weights Curb Weight Manual: Approx. 3,704 lbs (1,680 kg) Curb Weight M Dct: Approx. 3,770 lbs (1,710 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr: Approx. 4,750 lbs (2,155 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Overall Rating: Not specifically rated as an M model in the same way as standard 3-series for 2011, but based on the 3-series platform which typically achieved high ratings (e.g., 5-star front/side impact). Active Features Active Safety: • Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with M Dynamic Mode • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) • Cornering Brake Control (CBC) • Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) • Electronic Stability Control • Brake Assist • Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) • Optional Adaptive Headlights • Optional Lane Departure Warning...
The 2011 BMW M3 Sedan (E90) represented the pinnacle of performance and luxury in the compact executive sedan segment, directly competing with high-performance variants from Audi (S4) and Mercedes-Benz (C63 AMG). It was positioned as a driver-focused sedan offering exceptional track capability and everyday usability.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
• Audi S4 (B8)
• Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG (W204)
• Cadillac CTS-V (First Generation)
Key Features
Features:
• High-revving naturally aspirated V8 engine
• Exceptional chassis tuning and handling
• Optional M-DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission)
• Sport-oriented interior with M-specific accents
• Advanced iDrive infotainment system
• Sedan practicality with M performance
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Areas Covered:
• Introduction
• Instrument Cluster
• Entertainment Systems
• Climate Controls
• Lights
• Driver Controls
• Locks and Security
• Seating and Safety Restraints
• Driving
• Customer Assistance
• Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only)
• Cleaning
• Maintenance and Specifications
• Engine Compartment
• Engine Oil
• Battery
• Fuel Information
• Air Filter(s)
• Part Numbers
• Refill Capacities
• Lubricant Specifications
• Accessories
• Service Information and Specifications
• Maintenance Information and Specifications
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for this generation's owner's manual)
Manual Type
Type:
Owner's Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Digital PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Systems:
• Engine operation and monitoring
• Instrument cluster indicators and warnings
• iDrive infotainment system (navigation, audio, communication)
• Automatic and manual climate control systems
• Exterior and interior lighting functions
• Power windows, mirrors, and seats
• Central locking and alarm system
• Airbags and seatbelt systems
• Driving dynamics control (e.g., M Dynamic Mode)
• Basic troubleshooting and warning light explanations
• Identifying and ordering replacement parts (via part numbers listed)
• Cleaning interior and exterior surfaces
• Understanding general vehicle operation
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive owner-level information covering operation, basic maintenance, and system understanding. Does not include in-depth diagnostic or repair procedures typically found in a service manual, but provides critical specifications for maintenance.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Quality:
Digital, factory-sourced (implies high fidelity to original print)
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Throttle System:
Individual throttle bodies (8 per engine)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Type:
7-speed M-DCT (Double Clutch Transmission)
Features
M Dct Features:
Drivelogic (adjustable shift characteristics), Launch Control, automatic rev-matching on downshifts
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-3 (or equivalent specification)
M Dct Fluid:
BMW DCTF-1 (or equivalent specification)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
188.0 inches (4,775 mm)
Width:
71.0 inches (1,803 mm)
Height:
57.0 inches (1,448 mm)
Wheelbase:
113.7 inches (2,890 mm)
Front Track:
62.1 inches (1,578 mm)
Rear Track:
61.2 inches (1,554 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 3,704 lbs (1,680 kg)
Curb Weight M Dct:
Approx. 3,770 lbs (1,710 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 4,750 lbs (2,155 kg)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Not specifically rated as an M model in the same way as standard 3-series for 2011, but based on the 3-series platform which typically achieved high ratings (e.g., 5-star front/side impact).
Active Features
Active Safety:
• Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with M Dynamic Mode
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
• Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
• Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)
• Electronic Stability Control
• Brake Assist
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Optional Adaptive Headlights
• Optional Lane Departure Warning (less common on this model year)
Passive Features
Passive Safety:
• Front airbags (driver and passenger)
• Side curtain airbags (head protection for front and rear occupants)
• Front seat-mounted side airbags (torso protection)
• Active front head restraints
• 3-point safety belts with pretensioners and force limiters
• Child seat LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) anchors
• Reinforced safety cage construction
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
System Name:
BMW iDrive (Professional Navigation System often included)
Features:
• Central control knob with menu buttons
• High-resolution color display (typically 8.8-inch)
• Navigation system with real-time traffic information
• AM/FM/Satellite radio
• CD/DVD player
• Auxiliary audio input
• USB audio interface (often requiring specific adapter cable)
• Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming
• Voice control
Driver Assistance
Assistance Features:
• Park Distance Control (PDC) - front and rear
• Cruise Control
• Rain-sensing windshield wipers
• Automatic headlights
• Bi-xenon Adaptive Headlights
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
• Bluetooth (for phone and audio)
• USB interface (limited functionality for iPod/iPhone depending on software version)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system, often around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. The manual will detail how to interpret CBS messages.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage (as specified by BMW).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 miles for iridium spark plugs.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended inspection every 30,000 miles; replacement based on condition or CBS message.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-60, BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 approved (check manual for exact specifications for ambient temperature range).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol-based) mixed with distilled water at a 50/50 ratio.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 High Performance Brake Fluid (BMW standard).
BMW, established in 1916, has a long and storied history in motorsport and performance vehicles, with its 'M' division (Motorsport) founded in 1972 to facilitate BMW's racing program. The M3 is a halo model that embodies this performance heritage.
Model Evolution
Evolution:
The E90 M3 Sedan is part of the fourth generation of the M3 lineup. This generation marked a significant departure with the introduction of a high-revving, naturally aspirated V8 engine (S65), replacing the inline-six engines of previous generations. It also offered a four-door sedan body style for the first time in many markets for the E9x generation.
Production
Production Years:
E90 M3 Sedan: 2008-2011 (model years)
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (primarily Regensburg plant)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Performance Awards:
While specific awards for the 2011 M3 Sedan might vary, the E9x M3 platform generally received widespread acclaim from automotive journalists for its performance, handling, and the groundbreaking S65 V8 engine. It was often lauded as one of the best driving sedans available.
Ratings
Engine Of The Year Awards:
The S65 V8 engine won multiple 'International Engine of the Year' awards in its displacement class during its production run.
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