Manual transmission (Getrag GS6-37BZ), Automatic transmission (ZF 6HP19Z), clutch, driveline, transfer case (xDrive models if applicable).
Chassis & Suspension:
Front and rear suspension (MacPherson struts, multi-link), steering system (hydraulic power steering), wheel bearings, braking system (ABS, DSC, EBD), parking brake.
Electrical System:
12V battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, Body Control Module (BCM), comfort electronics.
BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent GL-4/GL-5 specification)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior Sedan E90
Length:
181.8 inches (4618 mm)
Width:
69.9 inches (1777 mm)
Height:
56.7 inches (1441 mm)
Wheelbase:
108.7 inches (2760 mm)
Interior Sedan E90
Front Headroom:
38.5 inches (978 mm)
Front Legroom:
41.7 inches (1059 mm)
Rear Headroom:
37.7 inches (958 mm)
Rear Legroom:
34.4 inches (874 mm)
Cargo Sedan E90
Trunk Volume:
12.0 cu ft (340 L)
Weights Sedan E90
Curb Weight Manual:
3461 lbs (1570 kg)
Curb Weight Automatic:
3505 lbs (1590 kg)
Wheel Tire
Standard Wheel Size:
17 x 8.0 inches
Standard Tire Size:
225/45R17
Bolt Pattern:
5x120
Center Bore:
72.6 mm
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver), 5-Star (Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star (Front), 5-Star (Rear)
IIHS Front Small Overlap:
Good (for 2007+ models, may vary for earlier)
Active Features
Traction Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)
Braking:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist.
Lighting:
Optional Adaptive Xenon Headlights with Auto-Leveling.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (curtain airbags).
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
I Drive System:
BMW iDrive (CCC or CIC depending on production date), featuring navigation, radio, CD player, and optional Bluetooth/USB integration.
Display:
Central LCD display integrated into the dashboard.
Driver Assistance
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) on some models.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free connectivity.
Usb:
Optional USB/Auxiliary input for audio devices.
Comfort Features
Climate Control:
Automatic dual-zone climate control.
Seats:
Power-adjustable front seats with memory for driver's seat, optional heated and ventilated seats.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Service:
Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically indicates oil service every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, whichever comes first. Check CBS indicator.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or as indicated by CBS.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 100,000 miles for the N52 engine (consult manual for exact spec).
Fluid Specifications
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48), pre-diluted or mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid.
Windshield Washer Fluid:
BMW Windshield Washer Fluid (or a quality automotive washer fluid with de-icer).
Known Issues
Valve Cover Gasket Leaks:
Common on N52 engines, leading to oil consumption and potential ignition coil issues.
Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:
Another common source of oil leaks.
Water Pump Failure:
Electric water pumps can fail, leading to overheating. Early models had mechanical pumps.
Pcv Valve Failure:
Can cause rough idling, oil leaks, and increased oil consumption.
Ccv System Clogging:
Crankcase Ventilation system can get clogged, leading to pressure issues.
ABS Dsc Module Failure:
Common electronic failure point, often requiring module repair or replacement.
Fuel Pump Failure:
Can lead to intermittent starting issues or complete failure to start.
Window Regulator Failure:
Motorized window mechanisms can fail.
Thermostat Failure:
Can cause engine to run too cold or too hot.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for engineering performance vehicles, dating back to the early 20th century. The 3 Series is its most iconic and best-selling line.
Model Evolution
E90 Introduction:
The E90 generation 3 Series debuted in 2005 for the 2006 model year, replacing the E46 generation. It introduced significant advancements in technology, chassis design, and engine options.
330I Positioning:
The 330i served as the mid-range performance model within the E90 lineup, offering a strong balance of power, refinement, and handling characteristics, sitting above the 328i and below the M3.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also Regensburg, Germany, and Rosslyn, South Africa.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The E90 3 Series (including the 330i) was frequently named to Car and Driver's 10Best list during its production run, recognized for its performance and handling.
Ward 3 Best Engines:
The N52 inline-six engine received multiple Ward's 10 Best Engines awards for its smoothness, power delivery, and efficiency.