🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 325i Model Code: E36 Product Name: BMW 325i 1992-1998 Full Service Repair Manual Generation Generation: E36 Generation Years: 1991-2000 (Global) Codes Chassis Code: E36 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible Target Audience: Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional workshops. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi 80/A4 (B4/B5), Lexus ES300 (XV10), Acura Legend (KA9). Key Features Vehicle Reputation: Known for sporty handling, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, build quality, and inline-six engine refinement. Manual Value: Essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of a classic BMW. Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair information. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Years: 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998 Engine Variants Covered: 325i (M50B25/M52B25 engine) Body Styles Covered: Sedan (E36/3), Coupe (E36/2), Convertible (E36/3C) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500-2500+ (typical for comprehensive manuals of this era) Manual Type Manual Type: Full Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, transmission (manual & automatic), drivetrain. Chassis: Suspension (front & rear), steering system, braking system (ABS included), wheels and tires. Electrical: Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instruments, driver information systems, body control modules, power windows, locks, mirrors, climate control electronics, audio system wiring. Body: Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, bumpers, convertible top mechanisms. Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, tire rotation. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, symptom-based diagnostics. Repair: Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair/replacement, convertible top repair. Adjustment: Wheel alignment, parking brake adjustment, clutch adjustment (if applicable). Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes wiring diagrams and detailed component removal/installation procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Text-searchable for quick information retrieval. Printability: Printable pages for workshop use. Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Early: M50B25 Engine Code Late: M52B25 Engine Type: Inline-6 Cylinder, DOHC, 24 Valves Displacement Liters: 2.5 Displacement Cc: 2494 Performance Horsepower Hp M50: 189 Horsepower Hp M52: 170 (Euro spec, US spec often quoted higher due to emissions tuning differences) Torque Lb Ft M50: 245 Torque Lb Ft M52: 225 (Euro spec) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch Motronic Engine Management System, Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI). Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed Manual (Getrag 260/5, later ZF S5-31) Optional Optional Transmission: 4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP-22 EH) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch Differential: Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) often available as an option or found on M Sport models. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length Sedan In: 179.4 Width In: 67.3 Height Sedan In: 54.7 Wheelbase In: 106.1 Track Front In: 55.9 Track Rear In: 56.7 Weights Curb Weight Lbs Sedan Manual: 3290 Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs: 4400 (approx.) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Rating: 4/5 Stars (for similar models of the era) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) on some models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags. Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear, pretensioners for front seats. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory BMW Business or Professional CD/Cassette players, optional Harman Kardon sound system. Onboard Computer: On-Board Computer (OBC) providing fuel consumption, range, and basic vehicle status. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control. Connectivity Connectivity Options: Optional car phone integration on later models. No modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity from factory. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval Miles: 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended). Coolant Flush Interval Miles: 30,000 - 60,000 miles or every 2-4 years. Spark Plug Replacement Miles: 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., platinum/iridium). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: Full Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 API SG/SH or higher. Coolant Type: BMW Blue or G48 Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water). Brake Fluid Type: DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) or DOT 4. Transmission Fluid Manual: BMW MTF-LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF 2). Transmission Fluid Automatic: ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 (Dexron III compatible, but Lifeguard 5 preferred for longevity). Known Issues Cooling System: Plastic expansion tank cracking, water pump failure, thermostat housing leaks. VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) seals can degrade leading to rough idle or low-end torque loss. Suspension: Front control arm bushings (RTABs) wear out, rear shock mount failure, subframe cracking (especially on coupes). Oil filter housing gasket leaks. Electrical: Window regulator failures, OBC (On-Board...