The BMW 3 Series E36, produced from 1991 to 1999, represents a significant generation for the marque, solidifying its reputation for sporty handling and luxury within the compact executive segment. Renowned for its balanced chassis and driver-focused cockpit, the E36 competed fiercely with other premium offerings of its era. It was available in various body styles including Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Touring, and Compact, and offered a diverse range of inline-four and inline-six engines, from the 115 hp 318i up to the potent 321 hp M3 variants. This generation is celebrated for its commitment to BMW's philosophy of 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' delivering an engaging driving experience.

This comprehensive service and repair manual provides detailed information for the BMW 3 Series E36. It covers essential maintenance procedures, in-depth diagnostic troubleshooting, and component repair for a wide array of systems, including engine mechanicals, fuel and emissions, transmission and drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes, and electrical systems. The manual is designed to assist owners, mechanics, and technicians in maintaining and repairing the vehicle effectively, covering everything from routine tasks like oil changes to complex overhauls of engines and transmissions. It includes information on M40, M43, M50, M52, S50, and S52 engines, as well as manual and automatic transmissions, and offers comprehensive wiring diagrams.