BMW 335i 2012-2018

BMW 335i 2012-2018 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2012-2018 BMW 335i drivetrain system, including engine, transmission, driveshaft, and differential components. Ideal for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2012-2018 BMW 335I, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

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

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation by selecting the desired section from the table of contents or using the sidebar menu.

Key Specifications

Engine Displacement

3.0L

Transmission Type

8-Speed Automatic

Driveshaft Material

Carbon Fiber

Final Drive Ratio

3.08:1 (Automatic)

xDrive Torque Split

40:60 (Front:Rear)

Available Specifications

Engine and Transmission

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

N55 TwinPower Turbo Engine

3.0L inline-6 turbocharged engine
Maximum power output: 300 hp at 5800-6000 rpm
Peak torque: 300 lb-ft at 1200-5000 rpm
Direct fuel injection system
Valvetronic variable valve timing

8-Speed Automatic Transmission

ZF 8HP45 transmission model
Gear ratios: 4.71 (1st), 3.14 (2nd), 2.11 (3rd), 1.67 (4th), 1.29 (5th), 1.00 (6th), 0.84 (7th), 0.67 (8th)
Shift times: 200 milliseconds
Adaptive transmission control with Sport and Manual modes
Optional 6-speed manual transmission available

Note: The 8-speed automatic transmission is standard for most models, while the manual transmission is optional.

Driveshaft and Differential

Technical details about the driveshaft and differential system, including materials and performance

Carbon Fiber Driveshaft

Material: Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP)
Length: 1.2 meters (47.2 inches)
Weight reduction: 40% compared to steel
Maximum torque capacity: 500 lb-ft
Designed for reduced rotational mass and improved efficiency

Rear Differential

Type: Limited-slip differential (LSD)
Final drive ratio: 3.08:1 (automatic), 3.23:1 (manual)
Differential lock: 30% under load
Cooling system: Integrated oil cooler
Weight: 22 kg (48.5 lbs)

Note: The limited-slip differential enhances traction and stability during cornering.

All-Wheel Drive System (xDrive)

Specifications and features of the optional all-wheel drive system

xDrive System Overview

Standard on xDrive models, optional for others
Torque distribution: 40% front, 60% rear (default)
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) integration
Weight: 75 kg (165 lbs)
Fuel efficiency impact: ~2% reduction compared to RWD

Transfer Case

Type: Electronically controlled multi-plate clutch
Maximum torque capacity: 450 lb-ft
Response time: 100 milliseconds
Oil capacity: 1.2 liters (1.27 quarts)
Maintenance interval: 60,000 miles

Note: The transfer case is designed for seamless torque distribution between axles.

Suspension and Steering

Details about the suspension and steering systems that interact with the drivetrain

Adaptive M Suspension

Electronically controlled dampers
Three modes: Comfort, Sport, and Sport+
Ride height: 140 mm (5.5 inches)
Spring rates: Front 25 N/mm, Rear 30 N/mm
Weight: 15 kg (33 lbs) per corner

Electric Power Steering

Type: Servotronic speed-sensitive steering
Steering ratio: 15.0:1
Turning circle: 11.3 meters (37.1 feet)
Power consumption: 400W at full load
Weight: 12 kg (26.5 lbs)

Note: The electric power steering system improves fuel efficiency and responsiveness.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Engine

Type: Inline 6-Cylinder Turbocharged

Displacement: 3.0L

Power Output: 300 hp at 5500 rpm

Torque Output: 400 Nm at 1500-4500 rpm

Compression Ratio: 10.0:1

Fuel System: Direct Injection

Transmission

Type: 6-Speed Automatic

Gear Ratios

1st: 4.0
2nd: 2.5
3rd: 1.7
4th: 1.3
5th: 1.0
6th: 0.8

Shift Control: Electronic with Manual Override

Fluid Capacity: 6.5L

Fluid Type: BMW ATF 8

Differential

Type: Rear Limited Slip Differential

Ratio: 2.93:1

Material: Aluminum Alloy

Lubrication: Synthetic Gear Oil

Part Number: BMW-DIFF-335I-2012

Drive Shaft

Material: Carbon Steel

Length: 1.2m

Diameter: 50mm

Torsion Limit: 1200 Nm

Part Number: BMW-DS-335I-2012

Axles

Front: Type: Independent Suspension
Material: Forged Steel
Diameter: 30mm
Part Number: BMW-FAX-335I-2012

Rear: Type: Independent Suspension
Material: Forged Steel
Diameter: 35mm
Part Number: BMW-RAX-335I-2012

Clutch

Type: Hydraulic Multi-Disc

Diameter: 250mm

Material: Carbon Composite

Engagement Speed: 0.2s

Part Number: BMW-CLT-335I-2012

Cooling System

Type: Liquid Cooled

Coolant Capacity: 10L

Coolant Type: BMW Coolant 50

Operating Temp Range: 70-90°C

Part Number: BMW-CS-335I-2012

Lubrication System

Type: Pressurized Oil System

Oil Capacity: 5L

Oil Type: BMW Engine Oil 10W-40

Operating Pressure: 3.5 bar

Part Number: BMW-LS-335I-2012

Safety Features

Overheat Protection: Automatic Shutdown at 120°C

Overload Protection: Torque Limiter at 1500 Nm

Diagnostic System: Integrated with BMW iDrive

Diagnostics

Error Codes

P001: Overheat
P002: Oil Pressure Low
P003: Transmission Fault

Scan interval: Every 5000 miles

Scan Tool: BMW Diagnostic Tool v3.0

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the BMW 335I drivetrain

5000

Oil Change
Transmission Fluid Check
Coolant Level Check

Ensure all fluids are at recommended levels and quality

10000

Transmission Fluid Change
Differential Lubrication Check
Drive Shaft Inspection

Inspect for wear and replace if necessary

20000

Clutch Inspection
Axle Inspection
Full Diagnostic Scan

Perform comprehensive diagnostics and replace worn parts

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of drivetrain does the 2012-2018 BMW 335i use?

The 2012-2018 BMW 335i is equipped with a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) system as standard, with an optional xDrive all-wheel-drive (AWD) system available. The xDrive system features a 40:60 front-to-rear torque distribution under normal conditions, with dynamic torque distribution adjustments based on driving conditions.

What is the transmission type and gear ratio for the 2012-2018 BMW 335i?

The 2012-2018 BMW 335i comes with either a 6-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed automatic transmission (ZF 8HP). The manual transmission has a final drive ratio of 3.08:1, while the automatic transmission has a final drive ratio of 2.81:1 for RWD models and 3.15:1 for xDrive models.

What is the torque capacity of the drivetrain components?

The drivetrain components, including the driveshaft and differential, are designed to handle the N55 engine's maximum torque output of 300 lb-ft (406 Nm). The xDrive system's transfer case is rated for up to 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque.

How often should the differential fluid be replaced?

BMW recommends replacing the differential fluid every 60,000 miles (96,560 km) or as specified in the vehicle's maintenance schedule. Use only BMW-approved synthetic differential fluid (SAF-XJ + FM Booster) to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

What are the signs of drivetrain issues in the BMW 335i?

Common signs of drivetrain issues include unusual noises (e.g., clunking or whining) during acceleration or deceleration, vibrations felt through the chassis, and difficulty shifting gears. If any of these symptoms occur, it is recommended to have the drivetrain inspected by a certified BMW technician.

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 335i Drivetrain Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

A detailed guide on maintaining the drivetrain components, including fluid changes, inspections, and common issues.

xDrive System Technical Overview

Coming Soon

An in-depth technical overview of the xDrive all-wheel-drive system, including its operation, torque distribution, and maintenance requirements.

BMW 335i Drivetrain Specifications

Coming Soon

A comprehensive list of drivetrain specifications, including gear ratios, torque capacities, and component details.

Drivetrain Diagnostic Procedures

Coming Soon

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying and troubleshooting drivetrain issues in the BMW 335i.

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