BMW 330i 2005-2011

BMW 330i 2005-2011 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the drivetrain system of the 2005-2011 BMW 330i, including engine, transmission, driveshaft, differential, and related components.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2005-2011 BMW 330I, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific drivetrain components or specifications by entering keywords such as 'transmission', 'differential', or 'driveshaft'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation by selecting the relevant section from the table of contents or using the page navigation buttons at the bottom of each page.

Key Specifications

Transmission Type

6-speed manual / 6-speed automatic

Final Drive Ratio

3.15:1 (manual), 3.64:1 (automatic)

Differential Fluid Capacity

1.2 liters

Driveshaft Length

1,450 mm (57.1 inches)

Transfer Case Fluid Capacity

1.0 liter

Available Specifications

Transmission System

Details about the transmission system, including type, gear ratios, and technical specifications

Transmission Type

6-speed manual transmission (standard)
Optional 6-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic
Manual transmission gear ratios: 1st - 4.23:1, 2nd - 2.52:1, 3rd - 1.66:1, 4th - 1.22:1, 5th - 1.00:1, 6th - 0.85:1
Automatic transmission gear ratios: 1st - 4.17:1, 2nd - 2.34:1, 3rd - 1.52:1, 4th - 1.14:1, 5th - 0.87:1, 6th - 0.69:1
Final drive ratio: 3.15:1 (manual), 3.64:1 (automatic)

Transmission Fluid Specifications

Manual transmission fluid type: MTF-LT-2
Automatic transmission fluid type: ATF-1
Fluid capacity: 1.5 liters (manual), 7.2 liters (automatic)
Recommended fluid change interval: Every 60,000 miles or 5 years

Note: Use only BMW-approved transmission fluids to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Differential System

Information about the differential system, including type, specifications, and maintenance

Differential Type

Standard open differential
Optional limited-slip differential (LSD)
Differential gear ratio: 3.15:1 (manual), 3.64:1 (automatic)
Differential fluid type: SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil
Fluid capacity: 1.2 liters

Differential Maintenance

Inspect differential seals every 30,000 miles
Replace differential fluid every 60,000 miles
Check for leaks and unusual noises during routine maintenance
Ensure proper torque on differential mounting bolts: 70 Nm (52 lb-ft)

Note: Regular maintenance of the differential is crucial for optimal drivetrain performance.

Driveshaft and Axles

Technical details about the driveshaft and axle components, including specifications and maintenance

Driveshaft Specifications

Two-piece driveshaft with center support bearing
Driveshaft material: High-strength steel
Driveshaft length: 1,450 mm (57.1 inches)
Center support bearing torque: 22 Nm (16 lb-ft)
U-joint type: Constant velocity (CV) joint

Axle Specifications

Front axle: Independent MacPherson strut
Rear axle: Independent multi-link suspension
Axle shaft diameter: 32 mm (1.26 inches)
Axle nut torque: 300 Nm (221 lb-ft)
CV joint boot material: Thermoplastic

Note: Inspect CV joints and boots for wear and damage during routine maintenance.

Transfer Case (xDrive Models)

Details about the transfer case for xDrive all-wheel-drive models, including specifications and maintenance

Transfer Case Type

Electronically controlled transfer case
Torque distribution: 40% front, 60% rear (default)
Transfer case fluid type: ATF-1
Fluid capacity: 1.0 liter
Recommended fluid change interval: Every 60,000 miles

Transfer Case Maintenance

Inspect transfer case seals every 30,000 miles
Check for leaks and unusual noises during routine maintenance
Ensure proper torque on transfer case mounting bolts: 50 Nm (37 lb-ft)
Replace transfer case fluid every 60,000 miles

Note: Regular maintenance of the transfer case is essential for optimal all-wheel-drive performance.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Engine

Type: N52B30

Displacement: 3.0L

Configuration: Inline 6-cylinder

Horsepower: 255 hp @ 6600 rpm

Torque: 220 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm

Compression Ratio: 10.7:1

Redline: 7000 rpm

Transmission

Type: 6-speed manual (ZF GS6-37BZ) / 6-speed automatic (GA6HP19Z)

Gear Ratios: 1st: 4.35:1
2nd: 2.50:1
3rd: 1.66:1
4th: 1.23:1
5th: 1.00:1
6th: 0.85:1
Reverse: 3.93:1

Final Drive Ratio: 3.15:1

Fluid Capacity: 1.6 liters (manual), 9.5 liters (automatic)

Fluid Type: MTF-LT-2 (manual), ATF-1 (automatic)

Differential

Type: Limited-slip differential (optional)

Ratio: 3.15:1

Fluid Capacity: 1.1 liters

Fluid Type: SAE 75W-90 GL-5

Driveshaft

Material: Steel

Length: Approx. 1.2 meters

Joint Type: Universal joints (U-joints)

Torque Spec: 88 Nm (65 lb-ft)

Axles

Type: CV (Constant Velocity) joints

Outer Joint Diameter: 90 mm

inner Joint Diameter: 100 mm

Boot Material: Thermoplastic

Torque Spec: 120 Nm (89 lb-ft)

Clutch

Type: Single-disc dry clutch

Diameter: 240 mm

Material: Organic friction material

Torque Capacity: 350 Nm

Pedal Free Play: 5-10 mm

Flywheel

Type: Dual-mass flywheel

Diameter: 280 mm

Weight: 12.5 kg

Torque Spec: 100 Nm (74 lb-ft)

Transfer Case

Type: Not applicable (rear-wheel drive only)

Note: No transfer case present in RWD configuration

Propeller Shaft

Material: Aluminum

Length: Approx. 1.5 meters

Joint Type: Cardan joints

Torque Spec: 95 Nm (70 lb-ft)

Maintenance

Fluid Change intervals: Engine Oil: Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Transmission Fluid: Every 60,000 miles (manual), 100,000 miles (automatic)
Differential Fluid: Every 60,000 miles

inspection Intervals: Driveshaft: Every 30,000 miles
Axles: Every 30,000 miles
Clutch: Every 50,000 miles

Diagnostics

Common Issues

Driveshaft vibration due to worn U-joints
CV joint noise during turns
Clutch slippage due to wear
Transmission fluid leaks

Diagnostic Codes: P0700: Transmission Control System Malfunction
P0730: Incorrect Gear Ratio
P1700: Transmission Indeterminate Failure

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the 2005-2011 BMW 330i drivetrain

15,000

Engine oil and filter change
Inspect driveshaft and U-joints
Check transmission fluid level

Use BMW-approved fluids and filters

30,000

Inspect CV joints and axle boots
Check differential fluid level
Inspect clutch pedal free play

Replace worn components as necessary

60,000

Replace manual transmission fluid
Replace differential fluid
Inspect flywheel and clutch assembly

Follow torque specifications during reassembly

100,000

Replace automatic transmission fluid
Inspect propeller shaft and joints
Perform full drivetrain diagnostic scan

Use BMW-specific diagnostic tools

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of transmission is used in the 2005-2011 BMW 330i?

The 2005-2011 BMW 330i is equipped with either a 6-speed manual transmission (ZF GS6-37BZ) or an optional 6-speed automatic transmission (ZF 6HP19). The manual transmission features a dual-mass flywheel, while the automatic transmission includes Steptronic functionality for manual shifting.

What is the final drive ratio for the BMW 330i?

The final drive ratio for the 2005-2011 BMW 330i varies depending on the transmission type. For manual transmission models, the ratio is 3.15:1, while automatic transmission models have a ratio of 3.64:1. These ratios are optimized for balanced performance and fuel efficiency.

What type of differential is used in the BMW 330i?

The 2005-2011 BMW 330i uses an open differential as standard. However, an optional limited-slip differential (LSD) was available for enhanced traction and performance, particularly in high-performance driving conditions.

What is the torque rating of the drivetrain components?

The drivetrain components of the 2005-2011 BMW 330i are designed to handle the engine's maximum torque output of 214 lb-ft (290 Nm). The manual transmission is rated for up to 370 Nm of torque, while the automatic transmission is rated for up to 400 Nm, ensuring durability under normal operating conditions.

How often should the transmission fluid be replaced?

For the manual transmission, BMW recommends replacing the fluid every 60,000 miles or 5 years, using MTF-LT-2 fluid. For the automatic transmission, the fluid and filter should be replaced every 50,000 miles or 4 years, using ZF Lifeguard 6 fluid. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

BMW 330i Drivetrain Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

A detailed guide covering routine maintenance procedures for the drivetrain, including fluid changes, inspections, and common issues.

ZF 6HP19 Automatic Transmission Technical Manual

Coming Soon

Official technical documentation for the ZF 6HP19 automatic transmission, including specifications, service procedures, and troubleshooting tips.

BMW Genuine Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Access the official BMW parts catalog to find genuine drivetrain components, including differentials, transmission parts, and seals.

Drivetrain Safety and Service Warnings

Coming Soon

Important safety information and warnings for servicing the drivetrain, including proper lifting procedures and torque specifications.

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