Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Model Variant: 325i Generation Chassis Code: E46 Codes Production Years: 1999-2005 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The BMW 3 Series (E46) established itself as a benchmark for compact luxury sport sedans, offering a compelling blend of performance, refinement, and driving dynamics. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed directly with models like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, and Infiniti G35. Key Features Driving Dynamics: Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and engaging handling characteristics, often praised as one of the best-driving cars of its era. Build Quality: Typical BMW build quality, with a premium interior and solid construction. Engine Options: Offered a range of smooth and powerful inline-six engines, with the 325i featuring a highly regarded M54B25 variant. Manual Details Coverage Areas Vehicle Years Covered: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 Vehicle Models Covered: BMW 325i (E46) Page Count Estimated Pages: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Digital Format: PDF (Digital Download) Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete overhaul, component testing, timing, lubrication, cooling Engine Management: Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, sensors, actuators, DME (Digital Motor Electronics) Transmission Manual: Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shifting mechanisms, fluid service Transmission Automatic: Control unit, valve body, torque converter, fluid service, shift solenoid testing Drivetrain: Driveshafts, CV joints, differential, wheel bearings Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, bushings, alignment specifications Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column Brakes: Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures Electrical System: Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, horn Body And Interior: Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, headliner, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) Comfort Systems: Climate control, power windows, power seats, central locking, sunroof Diagnostics: OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), fault finding Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and changes Troubleshooting: Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and complex issues Repair And Rebuild: Detailed instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly Diagnostic Tools: Information on using scan tools and specialized BMW diagnostic equipment Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: Covers from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork repairs. Manual Specifications File Format Quality: High-resolution, clear text and images Searchability: Fully searchable PDF document Print Quality Printable: Printable pages for workshop use Binding Type Binding: Not Applicable (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper: Not Applicable (Digital Download) Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M54B25 Configuration: Inline 6-cylinder Displacement: 2.5 Liters (2494 cc) Valvetrain: DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 24 valves (4 per cylinder) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 75.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.2:1 Performance Horsepower: 184 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque: 232 Nm (171 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm Fuel System Induction: Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Capacity: 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 recommended) Coolant Type: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 type) Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag GS5-39DZ) Optional Transmission Type: 5-speed Automatic Transmission (Steptronic) Features Manual Gear Ratios: 1st: 4.23, 2nd: 2.52, 3rd: 1.67, 4th: 1.23, 5th: 1.00, Reverse: 3.93 Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (BMW recommends specific types, e.g., ATF Dextron III for some earlier models, but typically GL-4 or GL-5 for the manual gearbox) Automatic Transmission Fluid: BMW ATF LT-3 (for 5HP19Z automatic) Dimensions Exterior Length: 4471 mm (176.0 in) Width: 1739 mm (68.5 in) Height: 1412 mm (55.6 in) Wheelbase: 2760 mm (108.7 in) Front Track: 1471 mm (57.9 in) Rear Track: 1477 mm (58.1 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs) Gross Vehicle Weight: Approximately 1950 kg (4299 lbs) Cargo Trunk Volume: 440 Liters (15.5 cu ft) Wheels Tires Wheel Bolt Pattern: 5x120 Standard Wheel Size: 16x7.0 inches Standard Tire Size: 205/55R16 Optional Wheel Size: 17x7.5 inches front, 17x8.0 inches rear Optional Tire Size: 225/45R17 front, 245/40R17 rear Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 4/5 Stars (for Sedan models, varying slightly by year/specific test) IIHS Side Impact: Good (for Sedan models, varying slightly by year/specific test) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System Dsc: Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Traction Control: Standard Traction Control System (ASC+T or DTC depending on year/options) Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags, optional side-impact airbags, optional head protection airbags Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters Body Structure: Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Optional Professional Navigation System with CD player, Radio, and integrated climate controls. Base models feature a standard radio and CD player. Speaker System: Standard 10-speaker Hi-Fi system, optional Harman Kardon audio system. Driver Assistance Parking Assist: Optional rear parking sensors (Park...