🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Model Variant: 325 Model Chassis Code: E46 Generation Generation Name: Fourth Generation (E46) Generation Years: 1998-2006 (Global), 1999-2005 (North America for 325 models) Codes Engine Code Prefix: M54 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Position Of Vehicle: Compact executive car, widely recognized for its sporty handling, refined interior, and performance-oriented engineering. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35. Key Features Key Vehicle Features: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) platform, advanced multi-link rear suspension, driver-focused cockpit, optional xDrive all-wheel drive (on certain models not specified here, but relevant to E46 generation). Manual Utility Manual Utility For Owner: Essential resource for owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance, understand system operation, and diagnose potential issues efficiently. Manual Utility For Technician: Provides detailed repair procedures, factory specifications, and diagnostic data crucial for professional service and repair. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Years: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 Page Count Page Count: 1250 Manual Type Manual Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Yes Engine Management Electronics Dme: Yes Fuel System: Yes Cooling System: Yes Exhaust System: Yes Transmission Manual: Yes Transmission Automatic Steptronic: Yes Driveline Differential Axles: Yes Suspension Front: Yes Suspension Rear Multi-Link: Yes Steering System Hydraulic Power Assist: Yes Brake System ABS Dsc: Yes Electrical System Basic: Yes Lighting System: Yes HVAC Climate Control: Yes Body Interior Trim: Yes Body Exterior Panels: Yes Body Safety Systems Airbags: Yes Infotainment System Basic: Yes Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Yes Scheduled Maintenance: Yes Troubleshooting Diagnostic Flowcharts: Yes Engine Repair Rebuild: Yes Transmission Service Overhaul: Yes Suspension Component Replacement: Yes Brake System Repair Bleeding: Yes Electrical Component Testing Replacement: Yes HVAC System Diagnostics Repair: Yes Body Panel Alignment Repair: Yes Diagnostic Tool Usage Bmw Specific: Yes Technical Depth Technical Depth Level: Comprehensive Professional Detail Level: Includes torque specifications, wiring diagrams, diagnostic codes (DTCs), component tolerances, and overhaul procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF Print Quality Print Quality: High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections. Binding Type Binding Type: Digital Download (Not Applicable for physical binding) Paper Type Paper Type: Digital (Not Applicable for physical paper type) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Name: M54B30 Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated Displacement: 2979 cc (3.0 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 89.6 mm Compression Ratio: 10.2:1 Performance Horsepower Hp: 225 hp @ 5900 rpm Torque Lb-Ft: 214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME 7.2) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended) Engine Codes Covered Engine Codes: M54B30 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed Manual Optional Optional Transmission Type: 5-speed Automatic (Steptronic) Features Transmission Features: Rear-wheel drive bias, with optional Steptronic manual shifting mode for automatic transmission. Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid Type: BMW recommends specific synthetic manual transmission fluid (e.g., Castrol Syntrans B 75W-85 or equivalent). Consult manual for precise part number. Automatic Transmission Fluid Type: BMW approved ATF (e.g., LT-3 or LT-4). Specific part number crucial for maintenance. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Inches: 107.4 inches Length Inches: 177.4 inches Width Inches: 68.7 inches Height Inches: 55.2 inches Weights Curb Weight Lbs: Approximately 3350-3500 lbs (depending on transmission and options) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Driver: 5-star (for 2000-2005 models) NHTSA Front Impact Passenger: 5-star (for 2000-2005 models) IIHS Front Offset Crashworthiness: Good (for relevant years) Active Features Active Safety Features: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS). Passive Features Passive Safety Features: Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, optional rear side-impact airbags, 3-point seatbelts with pretensioners. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: BMW Professional Radio, optional CD changer, optional Navigation system (MKIII/MKIV). Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: Park Distance Control (PDC) optional, Rain-sensing wipers optional, Automatic Climate Control. Connectivity Connectivity Features: Optional Bluetooth hands-free system (BMW Assist). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically 7,500-10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first, with Condition Based Service (CBS) system recommendations. Spark Plug Replacement: Around 60,000 miles (depending on specific plug type, e.g., NGK Platinum). Coolant Flush Interval: Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-30. Engine Oil Capacity: 6.5 US quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change. Coolant Type: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent. Known Issues Common Issue Vibration Damper Pulley: Failure of the crankshaft pulley vibration damper, leading to noise and potential belt issues. Common Issue Cooling System Plastic Parts: Cracking of plastic coolant expansion tanks, hoses, and water pumps due to age and heat. Common Issue Oil Leaks Valve Cover Gasket: Degradation of valve cover gasket leading to oil leaks and potential smell in the engine bay. Common Issue Window Regulator Failure: Failure...