🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 328i Year: 2010 Codes Chassis Code: E90 (Sedan), E91 (Wagon/Touring), E92 (Coupe), E93 (Convertible) Engine Code: N51B30 (3.0L Naturally Aspirated Inline-6) 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact Executive Car (Premium Sport Sedan/Coupe/Convertible/Wagon) Brand Reputation: BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, emphasizing performance, luxury, and advanced engineering. Competitive Analysis Primary Competitors: Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Infiniti G37. Key Features Vehicle Philosophy: The E90/E91/E92/E93 generation 3 Series embodies balanced handling, powerful inline-six engines, and a driver-focused interior. Manual Purpose: Provides comprehensive, factory-level repair and maintenance information for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Service and Repair Manual Software Language: English Format: Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable) Licensing: Officially Licensed 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete engine overhaul, component diagnostics, timing, cylinder head, block assembly, lubrication, cooling. Engine Management: Fuel injection, ignition system, sensors, actuators, ECU diagnostics, emission control systems. Transmission: Automatic Transmission (GA6HP19Z) and Manual Transmission (GS6-37BZ/DZ) service, repair, fluid changes, diagnostics, mechatronics. Drivetrain: Differential, driveshafts, CV joints, axles, wheel bearings. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications. Steering: Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, steering rack diagnostics and repair. Brakes: Hydraulic brake system, ABS, DSC, EBD, brake calipers, rotors, pads, lines, bleeding procedures. Electrical System: Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting systems. Body And Chassis: Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion protection. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, refrigerant handling, component replacement, diagnostics. Comfort And Convenience: Power windows, locks, mirrors, seats, sunroof, keyless entry, central locking. Infotainment And Navigation: iDrive system, radio, navigation, audio components, displays, connectivity modules. Safety Systems: Airbags, seatbelts, pre-tensioners, airbag control module diagnostics. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, tire rotation. Diagnostic Troubleshooting: Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation. Component Replacement: Detailed instructions for replacing major and minor components across all systems. Rebuilding Procedures: Complete rebuild procedures for engine and transmission components. Electrical Diagnostics: Use of multimeters, oscilloscopes, and diagnostic tools; wiring harness repair; module programming. Alignment And Balancing: Wheel alignment procedures and specifications, tire balancing. Airbag System Service: Safe handling procedures for airbag components and SRS system diagnostics. Technical Depth Depth Level: Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full rebuilds and advanced diagnostics). Diagnostic Tools: Information on utilizing BMW-specific diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA/D) and general automotive scan tools. Torque Specifications: Precise torque values for all critical fasteners. Clearances And Tolerances: Specifications for engine and transmission component clearances. Wiring Diagrams: Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Software Application / Digital Manual Searchability: Likely high (depending on software implementation), allowing keyword searches. Interactivity: May include interactive diagrams, links, and diagnostic wizards. Print Quality Printability: Likely printable, but optimized for digital viewing. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder Displacement: 2996 cc (3.0 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 85.0 mm x 88.0 mm Compression Ratio: 12.0:1 Valvetrain: Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) Performance Horsepower: 230 hp @ 6500 rpm Torque: 200 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with High-Pressure Direct Injection (Simulated for N51, actual in later models, but N51 had specific tuning for SULEV). Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended) Emissions Standard: SULEV (Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle) - specific to N51 in certain markets like California. 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 6-speed Manual Transmission (GS6-37BZ/DZ) Optional Type: 6-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (GA6HP19Z) with Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC) Features Manual Clutch: Hydraulic clutch actuation Automatic Modes: Sport mode, manual shift via selector lever or paddle shifters (optional) Transmission Fluid: BMW Approved ATF fluid (refer to specific part numbers in manual, e.g., Lifeguardfluid8 for ZF 6HP) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Sedan: 178.2 in, Coupe: 178.2 in, Convertible: 178.2 in, Wagon: 179.7 in Width: Sedan/Coupe/Convertible: 70.2 in, Wagon: 70.2 in Height: Sedan: 56.1 in, Coupe: 54.1 in, Convertible: 55.2 in, Wagon: 57.1 in Wheelbase: Sedan/Coupe/Convertible: 108.7 in, Wagon: 110.6 in Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3500-3800 lbs (varies by body style and equipment) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Varies by model, typically around 4600-4900 lbs 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Crash: 5-Star (for applicable body styles) IIHS Top Safety Pick: Yes (for applicable body styles) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System Dsc: Standard Dynamic Stability Control Traction Control: Standard Traction Control System (TCS) Brake Assist: Standard Brake Assist (BA) Passive Features Airbags: Front, side-impact, and curtain airbags (depending on body style) Seatbelts: 3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Interface: BMW iDrive system with a...
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with High-Pressure Direct Injection (Simulated for N51, actual in later models, but N51 had specific tuning for SULEV).
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended)
Emissions Standard:
SULEV (Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle) - specific to N51 in certain markets like California.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (GS6-37BZ/DZ)
Optional
Type:
6-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (GA6HP19Z) with Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC)
Features
Manual Clutch:
Hydraulic clutch actuation
Automatic Modes:
Sport mode, manual shift via selector lever or paddle shifters (optional)
Transmission Fluid:
BMW Approved ATF fluid (refer to specific part numbers in manual, e.g., Lifeguardfluid8 for ZF 6HP)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Sedan: 178.2 in, Coupe: 178.2 in, Convertible: 178.2 in, Wagon: 179.7 in
Width:
Sedan/Coupe/Convertible: 70.2 in, Wagon: 70.2 in
Height:
Sedan: 56.1 in, Coupe: 54.1 in, Convertible: 55.2 in, Wagon: 57.1 in
Wheelbase:
Sedan/Coupe/Convertible: 108.7 in, Wagon: 110.6 in
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3500-3800 lbs (varies by body style and equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 4600-4900 lbs
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Crash:
5-Star (for applicable body styles)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for applicable body styles)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Dsc:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Brake Assist:
Standard Brake Assist (BA)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front, side-impact, and curtain airbags (depending on body style)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Interface:
BMW iDrive system with a central control knob and high-resolution display.
Audio Options:
Standard professional radio, optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.
Connectivity:
Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, USB audio interface (optional), auxiliary input.
Driver Assistance
Parking Assist:
Park Distance Control (PDC) - front and rear.
Lighting:
Standard Halogen headlights, optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights with angel eyes.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, optional Active Cruise Control.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Condition-based service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions. Manual provides precise guidance.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles or as indicated by CBS.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended annually or every 15,000-20,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 miles for original plugs; manual specifies exact interval and part numbers.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 synthetic oil meeting BMW LL-01 or LL-04 specifications. Oil capacity: 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol-based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity approx. 8.0 liters.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 High Performance brake fluid. Recommended replacement every 2 years.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Water pump (electric), thermostat, VANOS solenoids, ignition coils, valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks.
Oil Consumption:
Some N52/N51 engines may exhibit moderate oil consumption, which is considered within acceptable limits by BMW under certain conditions. Manual details checks.
Pcv System:
Potential for clogged PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system leading to oil leaks or rough idle.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer Origins:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW), founded in 1916 in Munich, Germany.
Model Evolution
3 Series Legacy:
The 3 Series has been BMW's best-selling line for decades, consistently setting benchmarks for sport sedans.
E90 Generation:
The E90 generation (introduced in 2006 for the Sedan) replaced the E46. The 328i in 2010 featured the N51 engine, a variation of the N52.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced in Germany, with some production also occurring in other BMW plants worldwide.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Ward'S 10 Best Engines:
BMW's inline-six engines (including variants of the N52 family) have frequently appeared on Ward's 10 Best Engines list in various years for their smoothness, efficiency, and power delivery.