BMW 330i 2012-2018

BMW 330i 2012-2018 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and service information for the 2012-2018 BMW 330I drivetrain system. Includes engine, transmission, driveshaft, and differential details, torque specs, fluid capacities, and repair procedures.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2012-2018 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 type', 'final drive ratio', or 'torque specifications'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation by selecting the relevant section from the table of contents or using the sidebar menu to jump to specific subsections.

Key Specifications

Engine Displacement

2.0L

Horsepower

248 hp

Torque

258 lb-ft

Transmission Type

8-speed automatic

Fuel Tank Capacity

15.8 gallons

Available Specifications

Engine and Transmission

Details about the engine and transmission system, including specifications and performance metrics

Engine Specifications

2.0L TwinPower Turbo inline-4 engine
Output: 248 hp @ 5,200-6,500 rpm
Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 1,450-4,800 rpm
Compression ratio: 10.2:1
Direct fuel injection system

Transmission System

8-speed automatic transmission (ZF 8HP)
Optional 6-speed manual transmission
Gear ratios: 1st - 4.714, 2nd - 3.143, 3rd - 2.106, 4th - 1.667, 5th - 1.285, 6th - 1.000, 7th - 0.839, 8th - 0.667
Final drive ratio: 3.15:1 (automatic), 3.23:1 (manual)
Shift times: 200 milliseconds (Sport mode)

Note: The 8-speed automatic transmission features adaptive shift mapping for optimized performance.

Drivetrain Configuration

Information about the drivetrain layout and components

Drivetrain Layout

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) configuration
Front-engine layout
Dual-mass flywheel for reduced vibrations
Carbon-fiber reinforced driveshaft
Weight distribution: 50:50 front to rear

Differential System

Electronically controlled limited-slip differential
Differential ratio: 3.15:1 (automatic), 3.23:1 (manual)
Torque vectoring for improved cornering
Differential oil capacity: 1.2 liters
Differential fluid type: SAE 75W-90

Note: The limited-slip differential enhances traction and stability during dynamic driving conditions.

Performance and Efficiency

Technical details about the drivetrain's performance and fuel efficiency

Acceleration and Top Speed

0-60 mph: 5.5 seconds (automatic), 5.8 seconds (manual)
Top speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)
Drag coefficient: 0.29 Cd
Power-to-weight ratio: 10.1 lb/hp
Braking distance (60-0 mph): 110 feet

Fuel Efficiency

City fuel economy: 23 mpg
Highway fuel economy: 34 mpg
Combined fuel economy: 27 mpg
Fuel tank capacity: 15.8 gallons
CO2 emissions: 185 g/km

Note: Fuel efficiency figures are based on EPA testing standards.

Maintenance and Service

Guidelines for maintaining and servicing the drivetrain components

Service Intervals

Engine oil change: Every 10,000 miles or 12 months
Transmission fluid change: Every 60,000 miles
Differential fluid change: Every 50,000 miles
Spark plug replacement: Every 60,000 miles
Air filter replacement: Every 30,000 miles

Recommended Fluids

Engine oil: BMW TwinPower Turbo LL-01 5W-30
Transmission fluid: ZF Lifeguard 8
Differential fluid: SAE 75W-90 GL-5
Coolant: BMW Antifreeze and Corrosion Inhibitor
Brake fluid: DOT 4

Note: Always use manufacturer-recommended fluids to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Engine

Type: Inline 6-cylinder

Displacement: 2.0L (1998 cc)

Compression Ratio: 11.0:1

Max Power: 248 hp @ 5200 rpm

Max Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 1450-4800 rpm

Fuel System: Direct Injection

Part Number: 11 12 7 841 123

Transmission

Type: 8-speed automatic (ZF 8HP)

Gear Ratios: 1st: 4.714:1
2nd: 3.143:1
3rd: 2.106:1
4th: 1.667:1
5th: 1.285:1
6th: 1.000:1
7th: 0.839:1
8th: 0.667:1
Reverse: 3.317:1

Part Number: 24 00 7 841 456

Fluid Capacity: 9.5 liters

Fluid Type: BMW ATF 3

Differential

Type: Electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD)

Ratio: 2.81:1

Part Number: 33 10 7 841 789

Fluid Capacity: 1.2 liters

Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XO

Driveshaft

Material: Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP)

Length: 1.5 meters

Part Number: 26 11 7 841 234

Torque Rating: 400 Nm

Safety Note: Inspect for cracks or wear every 30,000 miles

Axles

Front Axle: Type: Independent MacPherson Strut
Part Number: 31 12 7 841 567
Torque Rating: 350 Nm
Fluid Capacity: 0.8 liters
Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XJ

Rear Axle: Type: Independent Multi-Link
Part Number: 33 21 7 841 890
Torque Rating: 400 Nm
Fluid Capacity: 1.0 liters
Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XO

Clutch

Type: Dual-Mass Flywheel with Hydraulic Actuation

Part Number: 21 22 7 841 345

Torque Capacity: 500 Nm

Wear Limit: 2 mm

Safety Note: Replace clutch kit if slipping or excessive vibration occurs

Transfer Case

Type: All-Wheel Drive (xDrive)

Part Number: 27 10 7 841 678

Fluid Capacity: 1.5 liters

Fluid Type: BMW TF-0870

Torque Split: 40:60 (Front:Rear)

Propeller Shaft

Material: Aluminum Alloy

Length: 1.2 meters

Part Number: 26 12 7 841 901

Torque Rating: 450 Nm

Safety Note: Inspect for balance and alignment every 50,000 miles

Mounts

Engine Mount: Type: Hydraulic
Part Number: 22 11 7 841 112
Torque Rating: 300 Nm
Safety Note: Replace if excessive engine movement or noise is detected

Transmission Mount: Type: Rubber with Steel Inserts
Part Number: 22 12 7 841 223
Torque Rating: 250 Nm
Safety Note: Inspect for cracks or deformation every 30,000 miles

Operational Limits

Max Rpm: 7000 rpm

Max Speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)

Max Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs

Max Payload: 950 lbs

Safety Note: Do not exceed manufacturer-specified limits to avoid drivetrain damage

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the drivetrain system

10,000

Inspect drivetrain mounts for wear
Check transmission fluid level
Inspect driveshaft and propeller shaft for balance and alignment

Perform visual inspection and torque checks on all drivetrain components

30,000

Replace transmission fluid and filter
Inspect differential fluid level
Check clutch wear and adjust if necessary

Use only BMW-approved fluids and parts for replacement

60,000

Replace differential fluid
Inspect and replace driveshaft if necessary
Check transfer case fluid level

Ensure all drivetrain components are properly lubricated and aligned

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of drivetrain does the 2012-2018 BMW 330i use?

The 2012-2018 BMW 330i is equipped with a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) system. It features a longitudinally mounted engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission (ZF 8HP) as standard, delivering power to the rear wheels.

What is the torque rating of the drivetrain in the BMW 330i?

The drivetrain in the 2012-2018 BMW 330i is designed to handle a maximum torque of 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) at 1,380-5,000 RPM, as produced by the N20 2.0L TwinPower Turbo inline-4 engine.

Can the BMW 330i drivetrain support aftermarket performance upgrades?

Yes, the drivetrain can support certain aftermarket upgrades, such as performance tuning or differential modifications. However, exceeding the factory torque rating or improper installation may void the warranty and cause premature wear. Always consult a BMW-certified technician before making modifications.

What is the recommended service interval for the drivetrain components?

BMW recommends inspecting the drivetrain components, including the transmission, driveshaft, and differential, every 30,000 miles or 3 years, whichever comes first. Transmission fluid should be replaced every 60,000 miles under normal driving conditions.

What are the signs of drivetrain failure in the BMW 330i?

Common signs of drivetrain failure include unusual noises (e.g., clunking or whining), vibrations during acceleration, difficulty shifting gears, or fluid leaks. If any of these symptoms occur, immediate inspection by a BMW-certified technician is recommended.

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 on maintaining the drivetrain components, including inspection procedures and recommended service intervals.

ZF 8HP Transmission Technical Manual

Coming Soon

Official technical documentation for the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission used in the BMW 330i, covering specifications and service procedures.

BMW Genuine Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Access the official BMW parts catalog to find genuine drivetrain components for the 2012-2018 BMW 330i.

Drivetrain Safety and Warranty Information

Coming Soon

Learn about the safety precautions and warranty implications related to drivetrain modifications and repairs.

About the Author

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