🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 325Ci Year: 2005 Generation Chassis Code: E46 Generation Designation: Fifth Generation Codes Engine Code: N52B25 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Executive Sports Coupe/Convertible Brand Philosophy: Ultimate Driving Machine, focus on performance, handling, and luxury Competitive Analysis Competitors: Audi A4 Cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe/Convertible, Lexus IS Coupe/Convertible (if applicable), Infiniti G35 Coupe Key Features Driving Dynamics: Renowned for balanced chassis, precise steering, and engaging driving experience Convertible Features: Power-operated soft top, integrated rollover protection, wind deflector Powertrain Refinement: Smooth and powerful inline-six engines 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Service and Repair Diagnostic Coverage: Extensive diagnostic procedures and fault code interpretation Page Count Estimated Page Count: Varies by software version, typically comprehensive covering thousands of pages in a digital format Manual Type Type: Digital Service and Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Format: Software/Digital (likely PDF or proprietary application) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (M54B30, N52B25), Transmission (manual & automatic), Differential, Drivetrain Chassis: Suspension (front & rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, DSC), Wheel Bearing, Hubs Electrical: Engine Management, Body Control Module (BCM), Comfort Access, Lighting (exterior & interior), Infotainment, Instrument Cluster, SRS Airbag System, DME, EWS (Immobilizer) Body: Exterior panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Seats, Interior trim, Convertible top mechanism (for Ci models) Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Spark plugs, Coolant flush, Brake fluid replacement Repair: Component removal and installation, Engine rebuilds, Transmission overhauls, Suspension repairs, Electrical component replacement, Body panel repair Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, Symptom-based diagnosis, Fault code lookup and interpretation, Wiring diagrams, Component testing procedures Special Tools: Identification and usage of specific BMW special tools required for repairs Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format Details: Likely a searchable PDF or proprietary executable with interactive diagrams and links. High resolution for clarity. Print Quality Print Quality Suitability: Designed for digital viewing but printable for physical use. High-quality graphics and text. Binding Type Binding Type Digital: Not applicable (digital format) Paper Type Paper Type Digital: Not applicable (digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Name: N52B25 Configuration: Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-cylinder Displacement: 2.5 Liters (2497 cc) Bore X Stroke: 82.0 mm x 78.5 mm Compression Ratio: 10.7:1 Valve Train: DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Double VANOS, Valvetronic Performance Horsepower: 184 hp @ 6250 rpm Torque: 230 Nm (170 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME9.2) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded (91 RON or higher recommended) Emission Control: Catalytic Converter, Secondary Air Injection System, Oxygen Sensors 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 6-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag GS6-37BZ) Optional Type: 6-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (GM SA596R) Features Clutch: Single Dry Plate Clutch (Manual) Automatic Features: Tiptronic manual shift mode, Adaptive control Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW MTF LT-3 (or equivalent GL-4 SAE 75W-80) Automatic Transmission Fluid: BMW ATF LT-71141 (or equivalent) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 174.0 inches (4420 mm) Width: 68.7 inches (1745 mm) Height: 53.5 inches (1360 mm) Wheelbase: 107.4 inches (2729 mm) Front Track: 58.7 inches (1491 mm) Rear Track: 59.7 inches (1516 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3570 - 3725 lbs (1620 - 1690 kg), depending on configuration Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approximately 4550 lbs (2065 kg) Cargo Trunk Volume: Approximately 11.2 cu ft (317 Liters) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 5-Star (for Coupe models, Convertible ratings may vary) IIHS Side Impact: Good (for Coupe models, Convertible ratings may vary) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System Dsc: Standard Dynamic Stability Control Traction Control: Standard Automatic Stability Control + Traction (ASC+T) Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags, Side airbags (integrated into seats), Optional Head Protection System (HPS) Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front force limiters and pretensioners Rollover Protection: Integrated rollover hoops behind headrests for convertible model 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: BMW Business CD or Professional CD/RDS with optional CD Changer and Navigation System (MKIV). Audio System: Standard 10-speaker Hi-Fi system, optional Harman Kardon Logic 7 surround sound. Driver Assistance Parking Sensors: Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC). Cruise Control: Standard cruise control system. Connectivity Phone Integration: Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface and phone cradle. Navigation: Optional factory navigation system with CD-ROM based maps. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, dictated by BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system, monitored by the onboard computer. Air Filter Replacement: Check every 30,000 miles, replace as needed or at major service intervals (e.g., 60,000 miles). Spark Plug Replacement: Typically 60,000 miles for original equipment (NGK BKR6EQUP or similar). Coolant Flush: BMW Blue Coolant (G48), initial fill for life, subsequent changes recommended every 4 years or 100,000 miles. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) SAE 0W-40 or 5W-30 synthetic oil. Check manual for...
Identification and usage of specific BMW special tools required for repairs
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format Details:
Likely a searchable PDF or proprietary executable with interactive diagrams and links. High resolution for clarity.
Print Quality
Print Quality Suitability:
Designed for digital viewing but printable for physical use. High-quality graphics and text.
Binding Type
Binding Type Digital:
Not applicable (digital format)
Paper Type
Paper Type Digital:
Not applicable (digital format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Name:
N52B25
Configuration:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-cylinder
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2497 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
82.0 mm x 78.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Double VANOS, Valvetronic
Performance
Horsepower:
184 hp @ 6250 rpm
Torque:
230 Nm (170 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME9.2)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91 RON or higher recommended)
Emission Control:
Catalytic Converter, Secondary Air Injection System, Oxygen Sensors
Control arm bushings (Meyle HD upgrades recommended), sway bar links, rear subframe mounting points.
Electrical:
ABS/DSC sensor failures, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system issues leading to oil consumption and leaks, ignition coil failures.
Convertible Top:
Hydraulic pump failure, sensor issues, hydraulic line leaks, fabric wear.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Marque Focus:
Engineering excellence, performance luxury, sporting heritage dating back to early 20th century
Model Evolution
E46 Generation Introduction:
Introduced in 1998 (as 1999 model year) for the sedan and touring, coupe and convertible followed shortly after. The 325Ci represents a significant iteration of BMW's successful compact executive platform.
E46 Facelift:
The 2005 model year falls within the E46's facelift (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse) introduced in 2001, which included updated styling, interior enhancements, and revised powertrains.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also contract manufacturing in other BMW facilities globally.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Journal Awards:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series received numerous awards and accolades from automotive publications during its production run, often cited for its driving dynamics and build quality.