Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 325xi Series: 3 Series Chassis Code: E46 Year Range Covered: 1999-2005 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Entry-level luxury sports sedan/wagon, popular for enthusiasts and everyday driving. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Lexus IS300. Key Features Platform Strength: Renowned for its balanced chassis, engaging driving dynamics, and premium interior for its class. Appeal To Owners: Attracts drivers seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and practical all-wheel drive capability. Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Service and Repair Geographic Applicability: Global (specifications may vary by region) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Over 1000 pages (typical for this era of BMW comprehensive manuals) Manual Type Manual Type: Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital PDF (Instant Download) Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: M54B30 (3.0L I6), M54B25 (2.5L I6) - including maintenance, diagnostics, repair, and overhaul. Drivetrain: xDrive All-Wheel Drive System, differentials (front, center, rear), transfer case. Transmission: GM A5S360R/A5S390R (5-speed Automatic), Getrag SG187/SG287 (5-speed Manual) - including operation, maintenance, diagnostics, and repair. Suspension And Steering: Front and rear suspension (struts, control arms, bushings, sway bars), power steering system (pump, rack, hoses), wheel alignment specifications. Brakes: Front and rear disc brakes (calipers, rotors, pads), ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures. Electrical System: Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), ignition system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses and relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connector (OBD-II). Fuel System: Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter replacement, EVAP system. Exhaust System: Catalytic converters, mufflers, oxygen sensors, exhaust manifold removal and installation. Cooling System: Radiator, coolant, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, hoses, bleed procedures. HVAC: Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control unit, refrigerant types and service procedures. Bodywork And Interior: Body panel removal and installation, interior trim components, seat removal, door hardware. Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil change, filter replacement (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid service, differential fluid change. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting common drivability issues, fault code interpretation (DTCs), electrical system diagnostics, component testing. Repair: Engine component replacement (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, VANOS unit), transmission repair, suspension component replacement, brake caliper replacement, starter/alternator replacement. Rebuilds: Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul (major components). Installation: Component upgrades (e.g., aftermarket parts), sensor replacement. Technical Depth Depth Level: Comprehensive - from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Detail Level: Step-by-step instructions with clear diagrams and torque specifications. Diagnostic Tools: Covers use of common diagnostic tools and procedures relevant to BMW E46 vehicles. Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF Print Quality Print Quality: High-resolution, printable pages. Binding Type Binding Type: Not Applicable (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: Not Applicable (Digital Download) Searchability Searchability: Searchable text for quick information retrieval. Compatibility Software Requirements: No special software required; viewable on any device with a PDF reader. Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M54B30 (for 330xi), M54B25 (for 325xi - though manual specifies 325xi, common variants include both). Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing). Performance Displacement 25L: 2494 cc (152.2 cu in) Horsepower 25L: 184 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque 25L: 175 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm Displacement 30L: 2979 cc (181.8 cu in) Horsepower 30L: 225 hp @ 6000 rpm (for 330xi variant) Torque 30L: 214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (for 330xi variant) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Bosch Motronic engine management. Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended). Transmission Standard Transmission Type Manual: Getrag SG187/SG287 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type Automatic: GM A5S360R/A5S390R 5-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (with manual shift mode) Features AWD System: xDrive permanent all-wheel drive system with variable torque distribution. Gear Ratios: Detailed gear ratios for both manual and automatic transmissions are provided in the manual. Transmission Fluid: Specific BMW ATF fluid specifications for automatic transmissions and gear oil for manual transmissions and differentials. Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 107.4 inches (2728 mm) Length: 177.4 inches (4506 mm) Width: 68.5 inches (1740 mm) Height: 55.7 inches (1415 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3400-3500 lbs (1542-1588 kg), varies with transmission and options. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Typically around 4500 lbs (2041 kg) Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 5-star rating (for sedan variants, specific xi ratings may vary) IIHS Side Impact: Good rating (for sedan variants) Active Features Traction Control: Automatic Stability Control (ASC) / Dynamic Stability Control (DSC). ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional side airbags. Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners. Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD, or optional Navigation systems. Audio System: Standard 6-speaker or optional Harman Kardon premium audio systems. Driver Assistance Stability Control: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) integrates ABS, traction control, and stability management. Connectivity Cruise Control: Standard cruise control. OBD Ii:...