🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 325i Model Variant: 325 Year: 1997 Codes Chassis Code: E36 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible Target Audience: Enthusiast owners, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics Competitive Analysis Competitors 1997: Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus ES300, Acura TL Key Features Driving Dynamics: Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive platform, and engaging driving experience Engine Powertrain: Smooth and potent inline-six engine, robust transmissions Manual Value Proposition Value: Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the classic E36 generation BMW 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Engine Variants: All gasoline engines for 1997 325i models Transmission Types: All automatic and manual transmissions Trim Levels: All available trim levels Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Workshop Repair and Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Engine mechanical (M50B25), cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition, emission control, engine management (DME) Transmission: Manual (Getrag 260/5, Getrag 260/6) and Automatic (ZF 4HP22, ZF 5HP18) transmissions: overhaul, repair, and maintenance Drivetrain: Clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles Suspension: Front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link suspension: components, alignment, repair Brakes: Front vented discs, rear solid discs, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnosis Steering: Hydraulic power steering system, steering rack, components Electrical: Complete wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, instrumentation, comfort systems, fuses, relays Body: Body panels, doors, windows, convertible top (if applicable), interior trim, HVAC system Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, fault codes, diagnostic procedures for all major systems Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes Repair: Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all mechanical, electrical, and body components Troubleshooting: Systematic troubleshooting trees and symptom-based diagnostics Overhaul: Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures Diagnostics: On-board diagnostics (OBD-I) interpretation and diagnostic tool usage Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced diagnostics) 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchable: Yes (typically text-searchable) Printable: Yes Print Quality Quality: High-resolution digital scans suitable for printing Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M50B25 Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves Displacement: 2494 cc (2.5 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 84 mm x 75 mm Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 Performance Horsepower Hp: 189 hp @ 5900 rpm Torque Lb-Ft: 181 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch Motronic M5.2 engine management with multi-point fuel injection Recommended Fuel: Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher) Engine Management ECU: Bosch Motronic M5.2 (OBD-I) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-speed manual (Getrag 260/5) Optional Type: 4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22) or 5-speed automatic (ZF 5HP18) Features Manual Ratios: 1st: 4.23, 2nd: 2.53, 3rd: 1.68, 4th: 1.21, 5th: 1.00, Reverse: 3.84 Automatic Transmission Control: Electronic control with sport and economy modes Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent GL-4 SAE 75W-90) Automatic Transmission Fluid: ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 (or equivalent Dexron III) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 174.5 in (4432 mm) Width: 67.5 in (1714 mm) Height: 54.5 in (1384 mm) Wheelbase: 106.1 in (2695 mm) Front Track: 56.4 in (1433 mm) Rear Track: 57.0 in (1448 mm) Weights Curb Weight Manual: Approx. 3200 lbs (1450 kg) Curb Weight Automatic: Approx. 3285 lbs (1490 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 4250 lbs (1930 kg) Cargo Trunk Volume: Approx. 15.1 cu ft (427 L) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Front Impact: 4-star (as per period testing) NHTSA Passenger Front Impact: 4-star (as per period testing) Active Features ABS: Standard (Bosch 2-channel ABS II) Traction Control: Optional (ASC+T) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags Seatbelts: Front and rear seatbelts, driver's pretensioner Body Structure: Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: Original BMW Business CD or Bavaria C cassette radios. Aftermarket head units are common upgrades. Speakers: Door-mounted speakers and rear parcel shelf speakers (number and configuration vary by model). Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional Parking Sensors: Not typically factory-fitted for this model year, aftermarket options available. Connectivity Bmw Onboard Computer: Optional 'Check Control' system for monitoring vehicle status. Comfort Features Climate Control: Manual or optional Automatic Climate Control (ACC). Seats: Standard sport seats or comfort seats, often with optional electric adjustment and memory. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions (check Condition Based Service system if equipped). Spark Plugs: Every 60,000 miles (check specific plug type and manual recommendation). Coolant Flush: Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles. Transmission Fluid Change: Manual: Check periodically, fluid is often considered lifetime but replacement recommended every 100,000 miles. Automatic: Every 50,000-70,000 miles (service interval may vary). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: BMW High Performance Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 (API SJ or higher, ACEA A2-96 or higher) Coolant: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Brake...