🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Model Variant: 325Ci Year: 2001 Generation Chassis Code: E46 Codes Engine Code: M54B25 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact Executive Car (Luxury Sports Sedan/Coupe) Competitive Analysis Competitors: Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35 Key Features Bmw Philosophy: The 3 Series (E46) represents BMW's commitment to driving dynamics, build quality, and premium engineering. Manual Advantage: This official software manual provides BMW-specific diagnostic procedures and repair data, essential for accurate maintenance and repair. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Documentation Type: Service & Repair Manual Software Licensing: Officially Licensed Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Comprehensive Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Software (Digital) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (RWD) Chassis: Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, DSC), Wheels & Tires Electrical: Engine Management, Lighting, Instruments, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories, Body Electrics, DME (Digital Motor Electronics), ABS/ASC/DSC Control Unit Body: Bodywork, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts) Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Checks & Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections Repair: Component Removal & Installation, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting Guides, Wiring Diagrams Diagnostics: Fault Code Interpretation, Step-by-Step Diagnostic Routines, Component Testing Technical Depth Depth: Detailed Mechanical & Electrical Diagnostics, Component-Level Repairs, Reassembly Procedures Scope: From basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced electronic system troubleshooting. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Software Type: Installable Software or Accessible Online Platform Searchability: Fully Searchable Text and Diagrams Print Quality Digital Resolution: High-Resolution Graphics and Diagrams Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 6-Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated Engine Code: M54B25 Displacement: 2.5 Liters (2494 cc) Performance Horsepower: 184 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque: 235 Nm (173 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane Recommended) Technical Details Bore X Stroke: 84 mm x 75 mm Compression Ratio: 10.2:1 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-Speed Manual Optional Type: 5-Speed Steptronic Automatic Features Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW ATF JWS 3309 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1) Automatic Transmission Fluid: BMW ATF LT-1 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4471 mm (176.0 in) Width: 1739 mm (68.5 in) Height: 1372 mm (54.0 in) Wheelbase: 2761 mm (108.7 in) Weights Curb Weight: 1520 kg (3351 lbs) (Manual Transmission) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 2000 kg (4409 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: ★★★★★ (5-Star) NHTSA Side Impact: ★★★★☆ (4-Star) Active Features Stability Control: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard Traction Control: Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T) standard Brakes: 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, ventilated front discs Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, front side-impact airbags Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit Options: BMW Business CD (AM/FM/CD), BMW Professional CD (AM/FM/CD with expanded features), Optional Navigation System Speaker System: Standard 6-speaker system, Optional Harman Kardon Logic 7 audio Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard Cruise Control Parking Assistance: Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC) Connectivity Telephony: Optional BMW Assist with Bluetooth integration (later models might have better integration) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Typically 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12-18 months, depending on driving conditions (indicated by Condition Based Service - CBS system). Spark Plugs: Approximately 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type; Long-life plugs used from factory). Coolant Flush: Every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 recommended, e.g., Castrol Edge 5W-30) Engine Oil Capacity: 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) Coolant: BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water Brake Fluid: DOT 4 (BMW Super DOT 4 recommended) Known Issues Cooling System: Plastic expansion tank cracks, water pump failure, thermostat housing leaks (common E46 issues). Oil Leaks: Valve cover gasket (Vanos seals), oil filter housing gasket, oil pan gasket. Suspension: Control arm bushings, ball joints, rear subframe mounts (prone to cracking). Electrical: ABS/DSC sensor failures, MAF sensor issues, window regulator failures. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Bmw Legacy: BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, premium vehicles with excellent engineering. Model Evolution E46 Introduction: The E46 generation of the 3 Series debuted in 1998 and was a significant evolution from the E36, known for its refined chassis and improved interior. 325Ci Positioning: The 325Ci model replaced the 323Ci and 328Ci, offering a balance of performance and luxury in the coupe segment. Production Production Years E46: 1998-2006 Manufacturing Locations: Germany, South Africa, Mexico 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Car And Driver Awards: Car and Driver 10Best lists multiple times in its generation (specific year not listed for 325Ci in 2001, but the platform was consistently recognized)....