BMW 340i 2012-2018

BMW 340i 2012-2018 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the drivetrain system of the 2012-2018 BMW 340I. Includes engine, transmission, xDrive system, differentials, and maintenance procedures.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2012-2018 BMW 340i, 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 sections using the table of contents or by scrolling through the document. Each major section is clearly labeled for easy access.

Key Specifications

Engine Displacement

3.0L

Horsepower

320 hp

Torque

330 lb-ft

Transmission Type

8-speed automatic

Fuel Efficiency

22 mpg city / 33 mpg highway

Available Specifications

Engine and Transmission

Details about the engine and transmission system, including specifications and key components

Engine Specifications

3.0L TwinPower Turbo inline-6 engine
Output: 320 hp @ 5500-6500 rpm
Torque: 330 lb-ft @ 1380-5000 rpm
Compression ratio: 11.0:1
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
Final drive ratio: 2.81:1 (automatic), 3.23:1 (manual)
Adaptive transmission control with Sport and Eco Pro modes

Note: The 8-speed automatic transmission features a torque converter with lock-up clutch for improved efficiency.

Driveshaft and Differential

Technical details about the driveshaft and differential system, including measurements and performance characteristics

Driveshaft Specifications

Two-piece steel driveshaft with center support bearing
Diameter: 80 mm
Length: 1450 mm (front to rear)
Balanced for high-speed operation up to 6500 rpm
Weight: 12.5 kg

Differential System

Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (eLSD)
Final drive ratio: 2.81:1 (automatic), 3.23:1 (manual)
Differential lock: 30% under acceleration
Oil capacity: 1.2 liters
Active torque vectoring for improved cornering

Note: The eLSD system is integrated with the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) for enhanced traction.

Axles and Suspension

Information about the axles and suspension components related to the drivetrain

Front Axle

Double-joint spring strut front axle
Wheel carrier: aluminum
Track width: 1575 mm
Steering ratio: 15.5:1
Maximum steering angle: 36 degrees

Rear Axle

Five-link rear axle with aluminum components
Track width: 1585 mm
Wheelbase: 2810 mm
Rear axle ratio: 2.81:1 (automatic), 3.23:1 (manual)
Integrated rear subframe for improved rigidity

Note: The rear axle design reduces unsprung weight for better handling and ride comfort.

Performance and Efficiency

Key performance metrics and efficiency details of the drivetrain system

Acceleration and Top Speed

0-60 mph: 4.8 seconds (automatic), 5.1 seconds (manual)
Top speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)
Drag coefficient: 0.29 Cd
Power-to-weight ratio: 7.8 kg/hp
Fuel efficiency: 22 mpg city / 33 mpg highway

Cooling and Lubrication

Engine oil capacity: 6.5 liters
Transmission oil capacity: 9.5 liters
Differential oil capacity: 1.2 liters
Coolant capacity: 12.5 liters
Oil change interval: 10,000 miles or 12 months

Note: The cooling system includes an electric water pump for improved efficiency.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Engine

Type: B58B30M0

Displacement: 2998 cc

Compression Ratio: 11.0:1

Max Power: 320 hp @ 5500-6500 rpm

Max Torque: 330 lb-ft @ 1380-5000 rpm

Fuel System: Direct injection with Valvetronic

Part Number: 11002421001

Transmission

Type: 8-speed automatic (ZF 8HP50)

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
Reverse: 3.317

Fluid Capacity: 9.5 liters

Fluid Type: BMW ATF-3

Part Number: 24008627689

Transfer Case

Type: AWD (xDrive)

Ratio: 2.81:1

Fluid Capacity: 0.8 liters

Fluid Type: BMW TF-0870

Part Number: 27108695045

Differential

Front: Type: Open differential
Ratio: 2.81:1
Fluid Capacity: 0.9 liters
Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XO
Part Number: 33107565561

Rear: Type: Limited-slip differential
Ratio: 2.81:1
Fluid Capacity: 1.1 liters
Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XO
Part Number: 33107565562

Driveshaft

Material: Aluminum

Length: 1.2 meters

Joint Type: CV joint

Part Number: 26107565563

Axles

Front: Type: CV axle
Spline Count: 32
Part Number: 31207565564

Rear: Type: CV axle
Spline Count: 32
Part Number: 31207565565

Clutch

Type: Dual-mass flywheel

Diameter: 240 mm

Material: Sintered metal

Part Number: 21207565566

Propeller Shaft

Material: Carbon fiber

Length: 1.5 meters

Joint Type: Universal joint

Part Number: 26107565567

Cooling System

Radiator Capacity: 10.5 liters

Coolant Type: BMW Antifreeze

Thermostat Opening Temp: 97°C

Part Number: 17117565568

Lubrication System

Oil Capacity: 6.5 liters

Oil Type: BMW TwinPower Turbo 5W-30

Oil Filter Part Number: 11427565569

Oil Change interval: 10000 miles or 12 months

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules

10000

Oil and filter change
Inspect brake system
Check tire pressure and condition
Inspect suspension components

Use only BMW-approved fluids and parts

30000

Replace air filter
Replace cabin air filter
Inspect drive belts
Check transmission fluid level

Inspect for leaks and wear

60000

Replace spark plugs
Replace transmission fluid
Replace differential fluid
Inspect cooling system

Follow BMW-recommended procedures

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of drivetrain does the 2012-2018 BMW 340i use?

The 2012-2018 BMW 340i is equipped with a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) system as standard, with an optional xDrive all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. The xDrive system features a 40:60 front-to-rear torque distribution for enhanced performance and stability.

What is the transmission type and gear ratio for the 340i?

The BMW 340i comes with an 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission (ZF 8HP) as standard. The gear ratios are as follows: 1st (4.714), 2nd (3.143), 3rd (2.106), 4th (1.667), 5th (1.285), 6th (1.000), 7th (0.839), and 8th (0.667). The final drive ratio is 2.81 for RWD models and 3.08 for xDrive models.

What is the torque capacity of the drivetrain components?

The drivetrain components, including the transmission and differential, are designed to handle up to 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. This ensures compatibility with the 340i's B58 3.0L inline-6 turbocharged engine, which produces 320 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque.

How often should the differential fluid be replaced?

BMW recommends replacing the differential fluid every 60,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first. For xDrive models, the transfer case fluid should also be replaced at the same interval. Use only BMW-approved fluids, such as SAF-XJ + FM Booster (75W-90) for the differential.

What are the signs of drivetrain issues in the 340i?

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

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 340i Drivetrain Technical Manual

Coming Soon

Official technical documentation covering the drivetrain components, maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting for the 2012-2018 BMW 340i.

xDrive System Overview

Coming Soon

Detailed guide on the xDrive all-wheel-drive system, including its operation, maintenance, and common issues.

Differential Fluid Replacement Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the differential fluid in the BMW 340i, including recommended tools and fluids.

Transmission Service Procedures

Coming Soon

Comprehensive guide to servicing the 8-speed Steptronic transmission, including fluid replacement and software updates.

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