Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical troubleshooting and bodywork.
Diagnostic Focus:
Detailed focus on diagnosing issues using factory specifications and procedures.
Specification Detail:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical resistance values.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Quality:
High resolution scans or digital originals for clear text and diagrams. Searchable PDF functionality is highly desirable.
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Searchable text for efficient information retrieval.
Printability:
Printable pages for workshop use.
Print Quality
Paper Type:
Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments.
Binding Type:
Stitched or spiral bound for lay-flat usability in a workshop setting.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
M40B18
Engine Type:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1796 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 81.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1
Performance
Horsepower:
113 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
165 Nm (122 lb-ft) @ 4300 rpm (approx.)
Fuel System
Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic M1.3 Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91/95)
Engine Maintenance
Timing Belt Or Chain:
Timing Chain Driven (with tensioner)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/5)
Optional
Type:
4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Features
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch.
Fluid Specs Manual
Fluid Type:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin G50)
Capacity:
1.3 Liters
Fluid Specs Automatic
Fluid Type:
Dexron III / Mercon
Capacity:
Approximately 8 Liters for complete fill (including torque converter)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4,433 mm (174.5 in)
Width:
1,711 mm (67.4 in)
Height:
1,395 mm (54.9 in)
Wheelbase:
2,700 mm (106.3 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
1,280 kg (2,822 lbs) approx. (manual transmission)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 1,750 kg
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
Wheel Size:
15 x 7.0 inch standard
Tire Size:
205/60R15 standard
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings:
Likely not rated under modern NHTSA standards; early E36 models had good structural integrity for their time.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard; passenger airbag optional or introduced later in the model year/region.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and chassis structure.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette player, optional CD player integration. Limited analog controls.
Display:
Basic analog gauges and warning lights. No digital displays.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
None; analog systems only.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals Engine Oil
Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Service Intervals Oil Filter
Interval:
Change with every oil change.
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (standard copper plugs).
Service Intervals Air Filter
Interval:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Service Intervals Coolant
Interval:
Flush and replace every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-40 or 10W-30 (API SG or higher).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (Glysantin G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack; water pump plastic impeller can degrade.
Fuel System:
Crankshaft position sensor failure can lead to no-start conditions.
Suspension:
Vibrations from the driveshaft guibo (flex disc) and center support bearing; worn control arm bushings.
Electrical:
Corrosion on ABS sensors and wiring; micro-switches in door handles can fail.
Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket; rear main seal leaks.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, high-quality automobiles.
Model Evolution
E36 Generation:
The third generation of the 3 Series (E36) replaced the E30, introducing a more modern design, improved aerodynamics, and a significantly revised chassis and suspension.
318I Positioning:
Served as the entry-level model for the E36 range, offering a more accessible entry point into BMW ownership.
Production
Production Period:
1990-1999 (E36 generation), 1991-1998 (318i specific variants in most markets).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), with some production in South Africa and Austria.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver:
Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production cycle for the E36 generation, highlighting its handling and overall driving experience.
Ratings
Consumer Reports:
Generally favorable ratings for reliability and driving dynamics, though some specific components were noted for potential issues (as outlined in known issues).