Overview

Released in June 2002, the BMW E46 Mk.II (E46.II) 3-Series Touring was a compact executive wagon. Manufactured in Germany, the rear-wheel drive 3-Series Touring range consisted solely of the 320i. The 320i was powered by a 2.2-litre inline six cylinder petrol engine that was mated to either a five-speed manual or automatic transmission.

Compared to the E46 3-Series sedan on which it was based, the E46 3-Series Touring was 7 mm longer (at 4478 mm), the same width (1739 mm), 6 mm lower (1409 mm) and had the same length wheelbase (2725 mm). The E46 3-Series Touring had a single-joint spring strut front axle and independent, multi-link rear suspension.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment included dual front airbags, door-mounted front and rear side (thorax) airbags, curtain airbags for front occupants, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, electronic stability control, traction control, cornering brake control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters. From May 2003, the 3-Series range was fitted with BMW’s upgraded electronic stability control system (‘Dynamic Stability Control II’).

Euro NCAP crash testing

Following improvements to side impact protection and a door latch release problem, a 2001 E46 316i sedan received a four star adult occupant protection rating in Euro NCAP crash testing with a score of 25. In the offset crash test, protection for the driver’s chest, legs and feet was assesed as marginal and weak for the lower left leg. In the side impact test, chest protection for the driver was adequate and abdomen protection was marginal; in this test, the rear of the door-mounted thorax airbag did not fully deploy.

Features

Standard features included 16-inch alloy wheels with 225/50 R16 tyres, a six speaker stereo with an in-dash CD player, climate control air conditioning, ‘Montana’ leather upholstery, cruise control, front fog lamps, a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel, split and flat folding rear seats, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, a height reach adjustable steering wheel, 12 volt power outlet, cargo net, roof rails, a trip computer and an immobiliser.

From May 2003, the 320i Touring was also fitted with rain-sensing wipers; in November 2003, Bluetooth mobile phone preparation kits were also made standard.

M Sport package

The 320i Touring was available with an optional M Sport package which included modified suspension, contoured sports seats, an ‘M Sport’ steering wheel and a sports body kit.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: BMW E46 3-Series

Review: BMW E91.I 3-Series Touring (2006-08)

Overview

Released in February 2006, the BMW E91 Mk.1 (E91.I) 3-Series Touring was a compact executive wagon. Manufactured in Germany, the rear-wheel drive 3-Series Touring range initially consisted of the 323i, with the 320i and 335i following in January 2008. In June 2007, the 323i underwent a minor update with the slight power and fuel economy gains for the 2.5-litre engine.

Compared to the E46 3-Series Touring , the E91 3-Series Touring was 42 mm longer (at 4520 mm), 78 mm wider (1817 mm), 9 mm taller (1418 mm) and had a 35 mm longer wheelbase (2760mm). The E91 3-Series bodyshell was also stiffer, partly due to a new joint and crossbar design for the vehicle’s load-bearing structure. The E91 3-Series Touring had double wishbone front suspension and independent, five-link rear suspension.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags (i.e. for front and rear occupants), ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, corner braking control, front and rear seatbelt pretensioners and load limiting front seatbelts.

The 3-Series was also fitted with two-stage Brake Force Display tail-lights, while the stability control system for the six-cylinder models included dry-braking of the brake discs on wet roads, Brake Standby (pre-aligning the brake linings), a Start-Off Assistant to prevent rolling back on hills and anti-dive control when applying the brakes slowly.

Euro NCAP crash testing

In Euro NCAP crash testing , a 2005 E90 320d sedan received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 34.65 out of 37. In the offset crash test, there was a slight risk of serious chest injury for the driver and a slight risk of lower leg injury for the front passenger. In the side impact test, there was a slight risk of serious abdomen injury for the driver.

Features

Standard features for the 320i included 16-inch steel wheels with runflat tyres, a six speaker stereo with CD player and MP3-compatibility, climate control air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, rear parking sensors, a multi-function steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift, remote central locking, power mirrors and windows, a tilt and reach adjustable steering wheel, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, an electrochromatic rear view mirror, roof rails, cargo cover, 12 volt power outlet, separately opening tailgate window and immobiliser.

Beyond this, the 320i Executive and 323i added 16-inch double-spoke alloy wheels, ‘Dakota’ leather seats, power adjustable front seats and front fog lights.

The range-topping 335i was further distinguished by its 17-inch wheels, ten speaker stereo with six-disc CD player, satellite navigation, steering wheel gearshift paddles, directional bi-xenon headlights, voice recognition, front parking sensors, power adjustable front seat lumbar support and driver’s seat memory settings.

3-Series Touring M Sport package

The 3-Series Touring was also available with an optional M Sport package which included 17-inch ‘M’ light alloy wheels with ‘M Sport’ suspension, contoured sports seats, an ‘M Sport’ steering wheel, anthracite headlining, brushed aluminium interior trim, Satin Chrome window and mirror frame finishes and an ‘M Sport’ aerodynamics package including front and rear air dams and side sill covers.

June 2007: 3-Series Touring update

In June 2007, standard features were extended to include a power adjustable driver’s seat, proximity key with keyless start (BMW’s ‘Comfort Access’ system) and an adjustable front armrest.

Review: BMW E91.II 3-Series Touring (2008-10)

Overview

Released in November 2008, the E91 Mk.II (E91.II) 3-Series Touring range had improved equipment levels, a revised range and styling. As part of the update, the 320i Executive became the entry-level model, with the ‘standard’ 320i discontinued. In November 2009, the range was expanded with the introduction of the 320d (solely available as an ‘Executive’ edition).

Visually, the E91.II 3-Series Touring could be identified by its revised head- and tail-lights, larger grille and new bonnet, bumpers and side skirts. Where fitted, the bi-xenon headlights also incorporated LED indicators and the iDrive system had programmable ‘favourite’ buttons.

Safety equipment

Compared to its E91.I predecessor, standard safety equipment for the E91.II 3-Series Touring was improved with the introduction of active front seat head restraints.

Features

Furthermore, standard features now included a USB stereo input, on-board computer with 80GB hard drive, interior lights (footwells and door handles) and exterior courtesy lights.

Furthermore, the 335i was fitted with BMW’s ‘Professional’ navigation system which had an 8.8-inch colour monitor 3D relief maps, a DVD drive, an integrated 80GB hard drive and a new iDrive controller.

EfficientDynamics

From November 2009, the 335i was fitted with electric power steering and Brake Energy Regeneration which controlled alternator output to charge the battery when the vehicle was braking or coasting.

Review: BMW E91.III 3-Series Touring (2010-12)

Overview

Released in May 2010, changes for the E91 Mk.III (E91.III) 3-Series Touring range were minor. The ‘Executive’ variants were discontinued and all 320d, 320i and 323i models were offered as ‘Lifestyle’ variants. Furthermore, the previously twin-turbocharged 335i was fitted with a single twin-scroll turbocharger and solely available as an ‘M Sport’ variant.

Features

The Lifestyle models featured 17-inch light alloy wheels, door sill inserts and a ‘Chrome Line’ exterior package, including a chrome-finished decorative bar in the lower front bumper. In contrast, the 335i M Sport had ‘M’ light-alloy wheels with sports suspension, contoured sports seats, an ‘M’ leather steering wheel and ‘M’ aerodynamic package.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: BMW E90 3-Series

Review: BMW F31 3-Series Touring (2013-15)

Overview

Released in February 2013, the BMW F31 3-Series Touring was a compact executive wagon. Manufactured in Germany, the rear-wheel drive BMW F31 3-Series Touring range was powered by 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engines (for the 318d) or 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engines (for the 320i and 328i). All F31 3-Series Touring models were fitted with BMW’s ‘Auto Start-Stop’ and ‘Brake Energy Regeneration’ functions as standard, while a ‘Driving Experience Control’ switch which enables the driver to select from Normal, Eco and Sport driving modes.

Compared to the E91 3-Series Touring , the F31 3-Series Touring was 104 mm longer (at 4624 mm), 6 mm narrower (1811 mm), 11 mm taller (1429 mm) and had a 50 mm longer wheelbase (2810 mm). Body stiffness also increased by more than 10 per cent, while lightweight construction techniques reduced kerb mass by around 40 kilograms. The F31 3-Series Touring has a double-joint front axle with springs struts, a five-link rear axle and electromechanical steering.

With the rear seats in position, cargo space for the F31 3-Series Touring was 495 litres, though this increased to 1500 litres when the 40/20/40 split and folding rear seats were lowered; the 3-Series Touring also had a power-operated, two-part tailgate.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the BMW F31 3-Series Touring included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, cornering brake control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

The F31 3-Series Touring was also fitted with BMW’s ‘Active Protection’ system which operated automatically at speeds above 18 km/h. If an accident was anticipated, Active Protection would prepare safety systems for a collision by retracting the front seatbelts and closing the side windows and sunroof (where fitted). After the collision, the brakes would be applied for 1.5 seconds to reduce the likelihood of a second collision.

In February 2015, standard safety equipment for the F31 3-Series Touring was extended to include:

• BMW’s ‘Driving Assistant’:
  • Approach Control Warning: if the driver was rapidly approaching an obstacle ahead, the driver would receive a visual warning in the instrument cluster, followed by a warning tone. If the driver failed to respond, the brakes would be applied automatically with deceleration of up to 3 m/s²;
  • Lane Departure Warning (LDW): operating at speeds above 70 km/h, a camera could scan the road up to 50 metres ahead and detect lane markings. If the driver unintentionally deviated from their lane, the driver would be alerted via steering wheel vibrations and a visual warning in the instrument cluster;
  • Pedestrian Warning with Light Braking Function: used a camera to scan the road ahead when the vehicle was travelling at speeds between 10 km/h and 60 km/h. if a potential collision with a pedestrian was identified, the driver would receive a visual warning in the instrument cluster and an alert tone; simultaneously, the braking system would be primed for maximum response. If the driver failed to respond, medium-force braking would be automatically initiated – this would reduce the risk of collision and prompt the driver to react. Once the driver applied the brake pedal, maximum braking force would be applied; and,
• Lane Change Warning: used two radar sensors in the rear of the vehicle to monitor traffic in adjacent lanes with a range of up to 60 metres behind the vehicle. The Lane Change Warning would warn the driver of potentially dangerous situations by conveying warnings through the instrument panel, an LED icon on the door mirror and steering wheel vibrations.

As part of the February 2015 update, BMW’s ConnectedDrive Services and Apps were also introduced – these included

• BMW TeleServices: enabled service-related vehicle data to be automatically transmitted to the driver’s preferred service dealer and for vehicle diagnostics to be transmitted to the Roadside Assistance Centre for immediate assessment over the phone; and,
• BMW Intelligent Emergency Call: automatically transmitted vehicle accident information and called the BMW ConnectedDrive Call Centre for assistance; emergency services would then be informed by the call centre if required.

Euro NCAP and ANCAP testing

In Euro NCAP testing , an F30 3-Series sedan received a five star safety rating which included a 95 per cent adult occupant protection rating and an 84 per cent child occupant protection rating. Under ANCAP’s assessment regime, this testing resulted in a score of 36.76 out of 37. In the frontal impact, there was a slight risk of serious leg injury for the front occupants. Maximum points were awarded in the side impact test, though chest protection was rated as adequate for the driver in the more severe pole test.

Features

Standard features for the BMW F31 318d Touring included 16-inch alloy wheels with 225/55 R16 tyres, a six speaker sound system with a CD player, MP3-compatibility and auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/iPod), dual-zone climate control air conditioning, synthetic leather upholstery (‘Sensatec’), cruise control (with downhill braking function), Bluetooth connectivity, front and rear fog lights, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, multi-function steering wheel, 40/20/40 split and folding rear seats, remote central locking with proximity key, push-button start, power windows and heated mirrors (with automatic dipping on reverse), a height and reach adjustable steering wheel, courtesy lights, a 12 volt power outlet, cargo net, roof rails and an immobiliser.

The 320i Touring was further equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels with 225/50 R17 tyres, power adjustable front seats, steering wheel gearshift paddles, driver’s seat memory settings and an interior lighting package.

The 328i Touring was distinguished by its upgraded HiFi sound system with nine speakers and 205 watt amplifier, BMW’s ‘Business’ navigation system with a 6.5-inch display, Dakota leather upholstery, power adjustable front seat lumbar support, power folding door mirrors, anti-dazzle mirrors and burled walnut interior trim.

July 2013: 3-Series Touring update

In July 2013, features and prices for the F31 3-Series Touring range were revised. As part of the update,

• Standard features for the 318d and 320i were extended to include BMW’s ‘Business’ navigation system; and,
• The 328i was further equipped with BMW’s ‘Professional’ navigation system with an 8.8-inch display, 3D maps, integrated hard disc for navigation, 20GB storage for audio files and Internet functionality; the ‘Professional’ navigation system was also upgraded with a new iDrive controller which included a touch function.

As part of the July 2013 update, a ‘launch control’ function was also introduced for the eight-speed automatic transmission.

February 2015 update

In February 2015, standard features for the F31 3-Series Touring were extended to include bi-xenon headlights, front parking sensors (rear parking sensors already fitted as standard), a rear view camera, surround view provided a bird’s eye perspective of the vehicle and a speed limiter. For the 320i Touring, however, BMW’s ‘Dakota’ leather upholstery was replaced with ‘Sensatec’ synthetic leather.

As part of the update, the 318d, 320i and 320d Touring were equipped with BMW’s ‘Adaptive M Suspension’ which lowered the vehicle’s chassis by 10 mm and included electronically-controlled dampers that automatically adjusted to the driving situation in response to sensor inputs from the shock absorbers.

For the 318d and 320i Touring, the Sport or Luxury Lines were fitted as standard (previously limited to the 328i), while the 328i Touring was equipped with BMW’s ‘Comfort Access’ (proximity key-based keyless entry) and a hands-free opening tailgate.

As part of the update, new alloy wheel designs were introduced for the 318d, 320i and 328i Touring.

Sport Line, Luxury Line, Modern Line and M Sport packages

The F31 3-Series Touring was also available with a choice of Sport, Luxury and Modern ‘Line’ packages, while the 320i was offered with an optional M Sport package –

• Sport Line: included high-gloss black exterior features, including black kidney grille slats (with chrome kidney grille surround), high-gloss black B-pillar and window guide. Inside, there were contrasting black and red interior accents, red trim rings, red scales in the circular dials, red stitching on the steering wheel, a high-gloss black trim strip and sports seats.
• Luxury Line: identifiable by its 11 fine chrome kidney grille slats, slightly offset chrome trim strips in the front apron air intakes, high-gloss chrome trip strip running above the air scoop, high-gloss black B-pillar and window guide, window frame and weather strip finished in chrome, high-gloss chrome trip strip across the rear apron and chrome tail-pipe embellisher. Furthermore, the interior featured chrome elements and high-gloss wood strips.
• Modern Line: turbine-style alloy wheels, 11 ‘satinated’ aluminium kidney grille slats, double trim strips for the air intakes and high-gloss black B-pillar and window guides. The interior featured a light upper side to the dashboard, dark oyster steering wheel, oyster or black upholstery and trim element with a three-dimensional wood surface structure.
• M Sport package: 18-inch light alloy wheels, M Sport suspension, aerodynamic package and ‘BMW Individual’ high-gloss ‘Shadowline’ trim. Inside, there was combination cloth/Alcantara upholstery, trim elements with blue accent strips, an M leather steering wheel, M door sill finishers and an M driver’s footrest.

August 2014: 3-Series Touring High-Line

From August 2014, the 3-Series was available in a High-Line edition that combined one of the ‘Line’ packages (the Sport Line, Luxury Line or Modern Line) with BMW’s ‘Innovations Package’. The Innovations Package included:

• A head-up display which projected information such as speed, navigation directions and warnings into the driver’s field of vision;
• A surround view camera system which included top-, side- and rear-view cameras;
• BMW’s ‘Parking Assistant’ for detection of parallel parking spaces at speeds below 35 km/h and automated steering for parallel parking maneouvres;
• BMW’s ‘Driving Assistant’ which included:
  • A lane departure warning system which was active at speeds above 70 km/h. Using a camera, the system could detect if the vehicle unintentionally changed lanes and would warn the driver via steering wheel vibrations and a signal in the instrument cluster; and,
  • A collision warning system which was active at speeds above 15 km/h. This system used a camera to detect vehicles ahead and could warn the driver of a possible collision; the brakes would also be primed for shorter stopping distances;
• BMW’s ‘Lane Change Warning’ system which was active at speeds above 50 km/h. The system would be activated by the driver using the indicators and, if a vehicle was detected in the vehicle’s blind spot or approaching in an adjacent lane, the driver would be warned via steering wheel vibrations and a signal in the door mirror;
• BMW’s ‘Comfort Access’ system for keyless entry, including vicinity lighting for the door handles and hands-free opening of the tailgate via foot movement under the rear bumper;
• Front parking sensors (for the 318d Touring);
• Exterior mirrors with anti-dazzle function (already standard on 328i Touring and above);
• An extended instrument cluster (already standard for 328i Touring and above); and,
• For the 328i Touring High-Line, bi-xenon headlights.

Related links

Review: BMW F31 LCI 3-Series Touring (2015-19)

Overview

Commencing production in July 2015 and officially released in Australia in October 2015, the BMW F31 LCI 3-Series Touring introduced updated styling, stiffer suspension, an upgraded interior and extended features. For Australia, the F31 LCI 3-Series Touring range consisted of the 320i and 330i Touring.

Identification

The BMW F31 LCI 3-Series Touring could be identified by its new front apron which had broader side intakes and a ‘more intricate structure’ for the central air intake. The F31 LCI 3-Series Touring also had new LED headlights – fitted as standard – with LED indicators positioned above them and new LED tail-lights.

Inside, the F31 LCI 3-Series Touring featured new surface materials, a new centre console with a sliding cover and additional chrome highlights for the controls, air vents and central control panel.

Suspension

The BMW F31 LCI 3-Series Touring had stiffer suspension due to ‘further developed damper technology’, a more rigid bodyshell mountings and revised steering. According to BMW, the new suspension settings improved both transverse and longitudinal dynamics and provided ‘significantly enhanced dynamic capabilities without any compromise on ride comfort’.

As per the February 2015 update, however, all Australian-delivered F31 LCI 3-Series Touring models were fitted with BMW’s ‘Adaptive M Suspension’ which lowered the chassis by 10 mm and included electronically-controlled dampers that automatically adjusted to the driving situation.

Safety equipment

Compared to the post-February 2015 MW F31 3-Series Touring, standard safety equipment for the F31 LCI 3-Series Touring was unchanged.

Features: 320i and 330i Touring

Relative to the post-February 2015 BMW F31 3-Series Touring, the F31 LCI 320i Touring was further equipped with a digital radio tuner (DAB+), Real Time Traffic Information for the navigation system, LED headlights and BMW’s ConnectedDrive Lifestyle connectivity system.

The F31 LCI 330i Touring was further equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels, BMW’s ‘Professional’ navigation system, Dakota leather upholstery, BMW’s ‘Comfort Access’ (proximity key), and Luxury Line styling elements.

2016 BMW F31 LCI 330i Touring Individual

Released in Australia in January 2016, the BMW F31 LCI 330i Touring Individual was specified with the following BMW Individual features:

• Fine-wood trim in Piano Black;
• Extended Merino leather upholstery in Cashmere Beige;
• Citrin Black paint finish; and,
• Leather instrument panel.

Otherwise optional features that were fitted as standard for the BMW F31 LCI 330i Touring Individual included 19-inch double-spoke M light alloy wheels in Orbit Grey, a Harman/Kardon surround sound system, BMW’s ConnectedDrive Freedom, Comfort Package, Innovations package, M Sport package, internet connectivity, heated front seats, a panoramic glass sunroof and satinised aluminium exterior trim. Australian deliveries of the BMW F31 LCI 330i Touring Individual were limited to five vehicles.

Related links

• BMW Australia: BMW 3-Series Touring
• Behind the Wheel: 2016 BMW 330i Touring Review
• Wikipedia.org: BMW F30 3-Series

Recalls: BMW E91 3-Series Touring

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: BMW E91 3-Series Touring

2007-11 BMW E91 3-Series Touring: doors may not open and engine may stall

In February 2013, a recall was issued for BMW E91 3-Series Touring wagons that were available for sale from 1 March 2007 to 28 February 2011. In these vehicles, the plug-in contact of the battery-positive cable on the front power distributor (fitted behind the glove compartment) could be damaged by vehicle vibrations, impairing power supply to the vehicle. As a result, the door locks may not open and it may not be possible to start the vehicle. Furthermore, if the engine were to stall, power steering assistance may be lost and the electrical system may fail – such a situation would be apparent from the flickering of the instrument panel and power loss from the engine (PRA 2013/13476).

2009-12 BMW E91 3-Series with I6 engine: VANOS oil leak and ‘limp home’ mode

In June 2014, a recall was issued for BMW E91 3-Series Touring vehicles that had N51, N52 or N55 six-cylinder petrol engines and were available for sale from 1 October 2009 to 30 April 2012. In these vehicles, the bolted connection on the housing of the variable valve timing unit (VANOS) adjustment units could become loose. If this occurred, the units may develop an internal oil leak and then no longer adjust quickly enough due to the reduced oil pressure. The vehicle’s emergency engine mode would then be activated and the engine warning light would illuminate to warn the driver. If the vehicle was being driven and slowed down or stopped unexpectedly, it would pose an accident hazard to the driver and other road users (PRA 2014/14160).

2007-11 BMW E91 3-Series Touring: won’t unlock/start, may shut down due to electrical failure

In June 2018, a recall (campaign number 00 61 7704 00) was issued for BMW E91 3-Series Touring vehicles that were available for sale from 1 March 2007 to 31 October 2011. Due to a possible electrical connection failure to the car’s main battery power cable (where it connected to the fuse box), the car may lose power to several electrical systems within the vehicle. If this electrical fault occurred, it may not be possible to unlock or start the vehicle; in some cases, there may be a total electrical failure that causes the vehicle to shut down while it is being driven – this would pose a collision hazard. Prior to the electrical failure occurring, the driver may notice the dashboard icons flickering. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2018/16803.

2006-11 BMW E91 3-Series Touring: wiring and fan resistor could short circuit

In June 2018, a recall (campaign number 00 61 6604 00) was issued for BMW E91 3-Series Touring vehicles that were available for sale prior to 1 July 2011. In these vehicles, the electrical wiring and fan resistor for the interior fan blower motor could deteriorate over time – this could cause a short circuit, overheating or melting at the plug-in contact at the fan resistor and, ultimately, a fire. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2018/16813.

Problems and faults: BMW E91 3-Series Touring

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

BMW E91 320d: N47 timing chains

For 2.0-litre N47 four-cylinder turbo-diesel engines manufactured between March 2007 and March 2011, excessively sharp teeth on the crankshaft sprocket could damage, or break, the timing chain. Please note that in the event of breakage, catastrophic engine damage could result and the primary symptom of timing chain damage was a loud ticking noise from the rear end of the engine. For these engines, two situations applied:

• For models manufactured before May 2009, the timing chains, camshaft sprocket and crankshaft required replacement. Of these, the crankshaft had to be replaced because the sprocket was welded to it and the engine also had to be removed because the timing chains were positioned at the rear of the engine, Due to the cost of repair, some owners opted to replace the engine instead.
• For models manufactured from May 2009 to March 2011, the crankshaft did not require replacement since the design of the crankshaft sprockets had been changed. The timing chains and timing guides, however, still required replacement.

BMW E91 323i (N52): ticking noise from camshaft lifters

In September 2009, BMW issued technical service bulletin SI B11 09 07 for E91 323i Touring vehicles with N52 engines that were produced prior to 31 November 2008. In these vehicles, an occasional ticking or rattling noise from the camshaft hydraulic lifters (HVA) may occur during cold engine starts. It is understood that the ticking was caused by an insufficient quantity of air-free oil for the HVA elements. To fix, however, the twelve (12) exhaust camshaft hydraulic valve lifters needed to be replaced (part no. 11 33 7 605 330).

A revised cylinder head was phased into production from 1 October 2008 and fully implemented on 31 November 2008, as per the following casting numbers –

• N51 (B30): 7588277.01;
• N52 (B30): 7588273.01; and,
• N52K (B30): 7588271.01.

2009-12 BMW E91 325i, 330i and 335i: rattling noise, loss of power and ‘Service Engine Soon’

In October 2014, BMW issued Service Information Bulletin SI B12 14 10 for BMW E91 325i, 330i and 335i Touring models produced from September 2009 to April 2012 that had N52 and N55 engines. According to the bulletin, these vehicles may exhibit the following symptoms:

• A rattling noise from the engine compartment;
• A loss of engine power;
• Illumination of the ‘Service Engine Soon’ lamp; and,
• A range of faults stored in the DME related to VANOS and camshaft position.

The bulletin attributed these symptoms to one or both (intake and/or exhaust) of the VANOS gear assemblies having faulty assembly bolts. As a result, one or more of the four assembly bolts may have loosened or broken. If the VANOS gear assembly bolts were found loose or broken, the affected VANOS gear assembly was to be replaced.

BMW E91 3-Series: N51/N52/N54 VANOS faults

In October 2010, BMW issued technical service bulletin SI B11 02 08 for E91 3-Series Touring vehicles:

• With N52 engines produced from March 2005 to June 2006; and,
• With N51, N52K and N54 engines produced from July 2006

In these vehicles, the ‘Service Engine Soon’ (MIL) lamp may illuminate and be accompanied by a reduction in engine performance/performance; this may occur after driving with the engine at normal operating temperature. If the ignition is cycled, the engine then usually performs normally. Furthermore, the following fault codes are stored in the DME:

• 2A82 VANOS intake – stiff; jammed mechanically;
• 2A87 VANOS exhaust – stiff; jammed mechanically; or,
• 3100 Boost-pressure control, deactivation – boost pressure build up prohibited (N54 engine only).

These VANOS faults may be caused by insufficient oil pressure supply to the inlet VANOS adjustment unit. To effectively move the camshafts to the target positions in the specified time and under all engine conditions, sufficient oil pressure supply to the VANOS control pistons was required. When engine operation required that the VANOS quickly advance or retard the intake or exhaust camshaft, fault 2A82 or 2A87 may occur if the camshaft is ‘late’ or does not reach the target position. In this situation, engine power may be reduced and a check control message be displayed.

According to the service bulletin, a mechanical restriction or electrical failure of the VANOS solenoid and/or the electrical circuit could cause insufficient oil supply to the VANOS assemblies.

Depending on the diagnosis, both VANOS solenoids may need to be replaced (as well as the engine oil and filter). If there was excessive wear to the camshaft bearing ledge, the camshaft hook ring seals and the affected camshaft bearing ledge would require replacement.

BMW E91 3-Series: N51, N52 and N52K engine deposits

In February 2008, BMW issued technical service bulletin SI B 13 01 07 for E91 3-Series Touring models with N51, N52 or N52K engines. In these vehicles, deposits in the injection and induction system may cause driveability complaints and the ‘Service Engine Soon’ light to be illuminated. This condition could be caused by:

• Deposits at the fuel injector’s tip which affected fuel flow and the air/fuel mixture ratio. Symptoms included hesitation or stumble during acceleration or loss of power; poor fuel efficiency; increased HC and CO emissions; and, the ‘Service Engine Soon’ lamp to illuminate due to misfire faults;
• Carbon deposits at the valves and on the intake manifold ports absorbing fuel during the warm-up phase, causing a leaner air/fuel mixture. Carbon deposits (or build-up) could also disturb the mixture flow at low throttle conditions and/or idle speeds. Symptoms of carbon deposits included a loss of power; unstable and/or rough idle; increased HC, CO and NOx emissions; and, the ‘Service Engine Soon’ lamp to illuminate due to intermittent misfire faults; and,
• Combustion Chamber Deposit Interference (CCDI) when there was contact between carbon deposits on the piston crown and the cylinder head. The noise created by this contact may be misdiagnosed as a ping, knock or other mechanical failure. CCDI occurs first as a cold start noise that can fade as the engine reaches operating temperature. As deposits build, there is an increase in compression temperature that may cause pre-ignition detonations. Symptoms include knocking, pining, poor acceleration, increased NOx emissions and engine idle speed surges.

BMW E91 335i: N54 high-pressure fuel pump failure

In December 2010, BMW issued technical service bulletin SI B13 09 10 for BMW E91 335i Touring vehicles that were powered by the N54 engine and manufactured from 28 March 2006 to 26 February 2010. In these vehicles, the driver may experience:

• Extended engine cranking time before start;
• The ‘Service Engine Soon’ indicator lamp may illuminate; and,
• Reduced engine performance due to activation of a ‘Safe Mode’, accompanied by an audible signal and illumination of the ‘Engine Malfunction’ warning light.

Furthermore, the fault code 2FBF (‘fuel pressure on – release injection, pressure too low’) may be stored in the DME.

This condition was attributable to a malfunction of internal components in the high-pressure fuel pump. To fix, an updated DME calibration improved the engine starting strategy and robustness of the HDP high-pressure fuel pump. If required, the high-pressure fuel pump (including the low-pressure fuel sensor) would also be replaced.

For Australia, BMW initiated a ‘technical campaign’ to replace the fuel pumps of vehicles within the affected VIN range. In the USA, however, this service bulletin was issued as part of a recall campaign (Campaign No. 10E-AO2). It is understood that the fuel pump warranty was also extended to 10 years or 120,000 miles (193,000 kilometres).

BMW E91 335i (N54): clanking noise

In February 2009, BMW issued technical service bulletin SI B11 13 07 for BMW E91 335i vehicles with N54 engines that were manufactured prior to 1 January 2009. In these vehicles, there may be a metallic, clanking noise that occurs up to six or seven times that is heard from the exhaust system (near the engine or turbocharger area) that is heard:

• During a deceleration from approximately 3500 rpm; or,
• During a heavy application of the accelerator without a drive gear engaged.

According to the service bulletin, the cause of this noise was a failure of the wastegate valve to completely close due to the mechanical tolerances of the wastegate actuator. As a result, the wastegate valve repeatedly clanked against its seating surface.

If the clanking noise was still present after reprogramming the DME, both the turbocharger wastegate actuators were to be replaced.

BMW E91 335i (N54): rattling wastegte

The wastegate rod has some slack at the joint/bearing where it comes off the actuator and meets the wastegate arm. As a result, rattling noises may come from the wastegate actuator arms and the wastegate itself. If the wastegate was rattling, the valve seats may wear and prevent the wastegate from fully closing – this could cause low boost pressure, the on-board diagnostics to issue a 30FF fault code (for low boost pressure) and the vehicle to enter ‘limp home’ mode. For vehicles under warranty with damaged turbochargers, BMW would replace the turbochargers and either added a part to the joint or replaced the joint to remove the slack/play. As a result of a class action in the USA, BMW North America extended its warranty of the turbocharger to eight years or 82,000 miles (132,000 kms) for any failure caused by a defect in the turbocharger’s wastegate. For vehicles that are not under warranty, an aftermarket solution involves:

• fitting a titanium bush through the turbo body for the wastegate arm;
• remanufacturing the actuator rod to the wastegate arm bush; and,
• remanufacturing the wastegate valve.

BMW E91 335i (N54): delay and jolt when accelerating from rest

In January 2009, BMW issued technical service bulletin SI B24 03 08 for BMW E91 335i vehicles with N54 engines and 6HP19TU transmissions that were produced from March 2007. In these vehicles, the driver may experience delayed engagement of the forward gears and a harsh jolt when accelerating from rest – this only occurred during the engine’s warm-up phase and did not occur in ‘Sport Mode’. According to the service bulletin, this condition was attributed to an ‘unfavourable’ Neutral Idle Control (NIC) calibration for the EGS software.

BMW E91 3-Series: ZF transmission faults

In December 2008, BMW issued technical service bulletin SI B24 01 08 for E91 3-Series Touring vehicles with N52K or N54 engines and ZF automatic transmissions that were manufactured prior to February 2008. In these vehicles, the ‘Transmission’ warning light may illuminate and the transmission enter its fail safe mode. Furthermore, fault code 4F81 (‘ratio monitoring, clutch A’) may be logged in the EGS control module, as well as 507B/507C (‘parking gear sensor implausible’) or 507D (‘parking gear incorrectly disengaged’). The service bulletin attributed these faults to:

• A low transmission fluid level; or
• An internal transmission pressure leak caused by a defective adapter seal between the transmission housing and the Mechatronic unit.

If the Mechatronic adapter seal was found to be defective (i.e. cracks or seal damage), it was to be replaced.

BMW E91 3-Series: ZF transmission sealing sleeve seepage

In March 2010, BMW issued technical service bulletin SI B 24 08 06 for BMW E91 3-Series Touring vehicles with ZF six-speed 6HP19/21 or 6HP26/28 transmissions that were manufactured up to April 2008. In these vehicles, transmission fluid seepage may be visible in the area of the transmission oil pan; the service bulletin attributed this condition to the tightness of the Mechatronic sealing sleeve’s O-ring. Only if a visible leakage trace indicated a substantial loss of transmission fluid was the Mechatronic sealing sleeve (part no. 24 34 7 588 725) to be replaced.

BMW E91 3-Series: white flakes/powder from air conditioning vents

In November 2007, BMW issued technical service bulletin SI B 64 12 07 for BMW E91 3-Series Touring vehicles that were produced from 31 May 2006 to 9 September 2007. In these vehicles, white flakes or powder may appear to be emitted from the air conditioning vents. The service bulletin attributed this condition to the surface oxidation of the evaporator and stated that it only occurred with evaporators manufactured by Denso (identified by the label on the front of the air conditioning housing behind the radio. To fix, the evaporator was to be replaced (part no. 64 11 9 179 802) and the air conditioning housing and ducts were to be cleaned of any residual flakes or powder with a damp cloth.

Problems and faults: BMW E91 3-Series Touring

• The engine may overheat due to either an electrical problem between the electric water pump and control module or the water pump itself.
• The ‘check engine’ light may illuminate and there may be an error code for excessive torque converter lockup slip – this may be due to the failure of a seal on the torque converter.
• If the air conditioning begins to blow warm after driving for about an hour, there may be an air leak near the evaporator sensor. If the air conditioner makes hissing noises, adding 90g more refrigerant to the system may fix the problem.
• For models fitted with rear seat air conditioning, the decorative trim on the centre console can become hot when rear heating is selected – this can cause discomfort if the driver’s knee contacts the console.
• If the headlights vibrate while driving, an additional headlight support is required to be installed.
• Remote central locking may stop working because one of the door latches, or the gas door latch, draws too much electrical power and blows the fuse.
• For vehicles fitted with xenon lights, the power mirrors and windows may stop working if a connector behind the headlight gets wet and corrodes.
• Power steering assistance may fade due to internal wear of the power steering pump.
• The universal garage door opener may not accept a code from a different source (new transmitter or new owner) if the batteries in the transmitter are low.

Recalls: BMW F31 3-Series Touring

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: BMW F31 3-Series Touring

2013 BMW F31 3-Series Touring: brake vacuum pump may fail

In October 2013, a recall was issued for BMW F31 3-Series Touring vehicles that were available for sale prior to 31 July 2013. In these vehicles, the vacuum pump may fail due to a lack of lubrication. As a result, the power brake boost unit would not be supplied with sufficient vacuum force, reducing the effectiveness of the brake assistance function. In turn, reduced braking effectiveness posed a hazard to the driver and other road users. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, see (PRA 2013/13801).

2012-17 BMW F31 3-Series Touring: Takata airbag recall

In December 2018, a staged recall campaign was initiated for BMW ‘F Series’ models – this included 2012-17 BMW F31 3-Series Touring vehicles. These vehicles had Takata driver’s airbags and the propellant wafers in these airbags could absorb moisture over time. In the event of airbag deployment, excessive internal pressure could cause the metal inflator housing to rupture and metallic fragments could be projected through the airbag cushion towards vehicle occupants – these fragments posed a risk of serious injury and fatality. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2018/17191.

Problems and faults: BMW F31 3-Series Touring

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

2012-14 BMW F31 320i and 328i: ‘Service Engine Soon’, ‘Drivetrain Malfunction’ and VANOS faults

In September 2014, BMW North America issued Service Bulletin SI B12 26 14 for BMW F31 320i and 328i Touring vehicles that were manufactured prior to July 2014. These vehicles may exhibit the following symptoms:

• Illumination of the ‘Service Engine Soon’ warning (Malfunction Indicator Light);
• The engine may enter a reduced power mode with the ‘Drivetrain Malfunction’ message displayed; and,
• One or more VANOS faults may be stored in the DME, even though the engine is mechanically sound and no unusual noises can be heard from the VANOS area. These VANOS faults related to implausible camshaft position (intake or exhaust), the camshaft stuck situation, or the camshaft angle offset relative to the crankshaft being outside the tolerance range.

According to the service bulletin, these symptoms could be due to unfavourable Engine Position Management (EPM) parameters in the DME software. The service bulletin recommended test plans be performed using BMW’s ISTA/D diagnostics system and any VANOS hardware issues were to be corrected. After performing repairs, or if the ISTA test plan was inconclusive, the vehicle’s DME software was to be re-programmed with the latest version of ISTA/P. If further VANOS control faults occurred after the DME software was updated, further diagnosis would be required to identify its cause.

Recalls: BMW E46 3-Series Touring

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: BMW E46 3-Series Touring

BMW E46 3-Series Touring: engine could overheat

In October 2001, a recall was issued for BMW E46 3-Series Touring vehicles due to a manufacturing problem with the auxiliary cooling fan electronics that could cause the fan to become thermally overloaded, reducing the cooling system’s performance and causing the engine to overheat (PRA 2001/5017).

2004 BMW E46 3-Series Touring: wheel bolts could work loose

In July 2004, a recall was issued for BMW E46 3-Series Touring vehicles manufactured from 8 May 2004 to 22 June 2004. For these vehicles, the wheel hub bores in the wheel rim may be too small. As a result, the wheel may not make proper contact with the brake discs and, although the wheel bolts were tightened to the correct torque, the wheel bolts could work loose (PRA 2004/7140).

2001-03 BMW E46 3-Series Touring: Takata airbag recall

In May 2013, a recall was issued for BMW E46 3-Series Touring wagons that were manufactured between December 2001 and March 2003. In these vehicles, the front passenger air bag inflator may have been assembled with improperly manufactured propellant wafers. In the event of a crash, the inflator may rupture and cause the front passenger airbag to deploy abnormally, increasing the risk of injury to the occupant (PRA 2013/13576).

2002-05 BMW E46 3-Series Touring: Takata airbag recall

In August 2016, a recall was issued for BMW E46 3-Series Touring vehicles that were available for sale from 1 January 2002 to 31 December 2005. If subjected to high levels of absolute air humidity, the gas generator of the driver’s airbag could malfunction; if the gas generator exploded, metal parts could be propelled out of the airbag due to high internal pressure, potentially causing injury to the driver and/or passengers. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2016/15581.

2000-04 BMW E46 3-Series Touring: Takata airbag recall

In March 2017, a recall was issued for BMW E46 3-Series Touring vehicles that were available for sale from 1 January 2000 to 31 December 2004. During the service life of these vehicles, or as part of the Takata airbag recall, the airbag inflator may have been replaced and the replacement airbag module may not deploy correctly. If the replacement airbag module was faulty, deployment of the airbag could cause the airbag’s metal case to rupture and disperse metal fragments throughout the cabin which had the potential to cause serious injury or death. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2017/15881.

1999-06 model year BMW E46 3-Series Touring: replacement Takata airbags

In January 2019, recall campaign 0072960100 was issued for 1999-06 model year BMW E46 3-Series Touring vehicles that had previously had their front passenger airbags replaced with ‘like-for-like’ Takata airbags as part of recall PRA 2013/13576. For the VINs of the recalled BMW E46 3-Series Touring vehicles, please see PRA 2019/17279.

Problems and faults: BMW E46 3-Series Touring

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

BMW E46 3-Series: floor cracks at rear sub-frame mount position

For the BMW E46 3-Series and E46 M3, the rear differential transmits the torsional load from the engine through the sub-frame and into the chassis – this constant loading and unloading weakens the sheet metal around the rear sub-frame mounts, causing it to fatigue and separate from the chassis.

Compared to the E36 3-Series, the rear suspension for the E46 3-Series had a cross-member on the front two mounting points of the sub-frame – this cross-member protected the front mounting points by placing the bushing and the stud in double-sheer, thereby reducing the twisting action on the sheet metal. As a result, however, the load from the front of the sub-frame was transmitted to the left rear of the sub-frame and caused cracks in the sheet metal in that area.

To overcome this problem, rear chassis reinforcement kits have been developed which thicken the metal and distribute the load over a large area. See, for example,Turner Motorsport: E46 Rear Chassis/Subframe Reinforcement Kit.

In the USA, BMW North America settled a class action lawsuit over for 1999-06 BMW E46 3-Series vehicles, acknowledging that ‘the attachment points of the Sub-Frame may develop a fracture or crack.’ As a part of the settlement, BMW agreed to provide an inspection, repair procedure and reimbursement policy for affected owners. This scheme, however, was only offered in the USA.

E46 320i Touring: M54 VANOS failure

For the M54 engine, the VANOS units may fail due to deterioration of the VANOS piston seal O-rings which are made from Buna (a material with limited temperature resistance). Over time, the O-rings harden and shrink, causing them to lose their functional characteristics – this can cause symptoms such as a loss of power below 3000 rpm, surging around 3000 rpm, a louder idle and rough running.

The piston O-rings lies under and provides support to a Teflon piston seal ring. Replacing the O-rings requires the Teflon seals to be removed for access. Since the Teflon seals cannot be removed from the piston seal groove without damaging it, the Teflon and O-ring seals must be replaced simultaneously. For greater longevity, the Buna O-rings can be replaced with O-rings made from Viton.

The VANOS unit had two piston seals with O-rings, while each piston had two O-ring sizes to provide hydraulic sealing in two VANOS cylinders of different sizes and an additional, smaller O-ring that was used to seal off a piston bearing. It is understood that the O-ring for this cap was also made from Buna and deteriorated in the same manner as the piston seal O-rings.

For more information about the M54 engine, please see BMW M54 and S54 engines.

E46 320i: M54 engine deposits

In February 2008, BMW issued technical service bulletin SI B 13 01 07 for E46 3-Series Touring vehicles with M54 engines (i.e. the 320i). In these vehicles, deposits in the injection and induction system may cause driveability complaints and the ‘Service Engine Soon’ light to be illuminated. This condition could be caused by:

• Deposits at the fuel injector’s tip which affected fuel flow and the air/fuel mixture ratio. Symptoms included hesitation or stumble during acceleration or loss of power; poor fuel efficiency; increased HC and CO emissions; and, the ‘Service Engine Soon’ lamp to illuminate due to misfire faults;
• Carbon deposits at the valves and on the intake manifold ports absorbing fuel during the warm-up phase, causing a leaner air/fuel mixture. Carbon deposits (or build-up) could also disturb the mixture flow at low throttle conditions and/or idle speeds. Symptoms of carbon deposits included a loss of power; unstable and/or rough idle; increased HC, CO and NOx emissions; and, the ‘Service Engine Soon’ lamp to illuminate due to intermittent misfire faults; and,
• Combustion Chamber Deposit Interference (CCDI) when there was contact between carbon deposits on the piston crown and the cylinder head. The noise created by this contact may be misdiagnosed as a ping, knock or other mechanical failure. CCDI occurs first as a cold start noise that can fade as the engine reaches operating temperature. As deposits build, there is an increase in compression temperature that may cause pre-ignition detonations. Symptoms include knocking, pining, poor acceleration, increased NOx emissions and engine idle speed surges.

E46 320i Touring: M54 engine and cold climates

In February 2009, BMW issued technical service bulletin SI B11 08 03 for BMW E46 320i Touring vehicles with the M54 engine. In these vehicles, extremely cold climate conditions could cause moisture to accumulate and freeze in the:

• Engine oil separator;
• Hose to oil dipstick guide tube; or,
• Orifice in the dipstick guide tube.

Depending on the position of the crankcase ventilation valve when this occurred, the following may occur:

• High crankcase pressures (stuck closed) resulting in valve cover leakage and/or breakage; or,
• An oil hydro-lock condition (stuck open) which could result in engine damage.

To fix, the crankcase ventilation valve, hoses and dipstick guide hoses were to be replaced; a new insulated style of oil separator and hoses were also introduced.

E46 3-Series: squeaking when steering from left to right

In March 2009, BMW issued technical service bulletin SI B 32 07 08 for BMW E46 3-Series Sedans. In these vehicles, there may be a squeaking or squealing noise from the pinion shaft of the steering gear when the steering wheel is turned from left to right. The service bulletin attributed this condition to insufficient lubrication of the steering gear pinion shaft seal. To fix, Lubrizol treatment was to be added to the power steering fluid to lubricate the pinion shaft seal

Problems and faults: BMW E46 3-Series Touring

• Steering wheel vibrations may be attributable to poor isolation of the power steering pump.
• The automatic transmission may slip and/or the ‘check engine’ light may illuminate due to the torque converter clutch (TCC) slipping and/or TCC solenoid failure.
• For models with manual transmissions, the drain plugs may leak and the fill plug may also require replacement.

Released in June 2002, the BMW E46 Mk.II (E46.II) 3-Series Touring was a compact executive wagon. Manufactured in Germany, the rear-wheel drive 3-Series Touring range consisted solely of the 320i. The 320i was powered by a 2.2-litre inline six cylinder petrol engine that was mated to either a five-speed manual or automatic transmission… Read full BMW E46 3-Series Touring review

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Released in February 2006, the BMW E91 Mk.1 (E91.I) 3-Series Touring was a compact executive wagon. Manufactured in Germany, the rear-wheel drive 3-Series Touring range initially consisted of the 323i, with the 320i and 335i following in January 2008. In June 2007, the 323i underwent a minor update with the slight power and fuel economy gains for the 2.5-litre engine… Read full BMW E91 3-Series Touring review

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Images: BMW E91.II 3-Series Touring (2008-10)

Released in November 2008, the BMW E91 Mk.II (E91.II) 3-Series Touring range had improved equipment levels, a revised range and styling. The E91.II 3-Series Touring could be identified by its revised head- and tail-lights, larger grille and new bonnet, bumpers and side skirts. Where fitted, the bi-xenon headlights also incorporated LED indicators and the iDrive system had programmable ‘favourite’ buttons.

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Images: BMW E91.III 3-Series Touring (2010-12)

Released in May 2010, changes for the BMW E91 Mk.III (E91.III) 3-Series Touring range were minor. The ‘Executive’ variants were discontinued and all 320d, 320i and 323i models were offered as ‘Lifestyle’ variants. Furthermore, the previously twin-turbocharged 335i was fitted with a single twin-scroll turbocharger and solely available as an ‘M Sport’ variant.

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Released in February 2013, the BMW F31 3-Series Touring was a compact executive wagon. Manufactured in Germany, the rear-wheel drive F31 3-Series Touring range was powered by 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engines (for the 318d) or 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engines (for the 320i and 328i). All F31 3-Series Touring models were fitted with BMW’s ‘Auto Start-Stop’ and ‘Brake Energy Regeneration’ functions as standard, while a ‘Driving Experience Control’ switch which enables the driver to select from Normal, Eco and Sport driving modes…Read full BMW F31 3-Series Touring review

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Images: BMW F31.II 3-Series Touring (2015-19)

Commencing production in July 2015 and officially released in Australia in October 2015, the BMW F31.II 3-Series Touring introduced updated styling, stiffer suspension, an upgraded interior and extended features. For Australia, the F31.II 3-Series Touring range consisted of the 320i and 330i Touring. The BMW F31.II 3-Series Touring could be identified by its new front apron which had broader side intakes and a ‘more intricate structure’ for the central air intake. The F31.II 3-Series Touring also had new LED headlights – fitted as standard – with LED indicators positioned above them and new LED tail-lights. Inside, the F31.II 3-Series Touring featured new surface materials, a new centre console with a sliding cover and additional chrome highlights for the controls, air vents and central control panel.

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Euro NCAP: BMW F30 3-Series sedan – crash and ESC testing

In Euro NCAP testing, a 320d sedan received a five star safety rating, including a 95 per cent adult occupant protection rating and an 84 per cent child occupant protection rating – for more information about this test, please go to the Euro NCAP website.

Carbuyer: BMW F31 3-Series Touring review

Note

Please note these videos are applicable to vehicles as they are supplied to their respective markets. As such, the features, prices and performance of the vehicles in these videos may differ from those which are supplied in Australia.