🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 325i Model Variant: 325 Year: 2000 Codes Chassis Code: E46 Engine Code General: M54B25 (though M52TU was also prevalent in this year, the manual likely covers it) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe Reputation: Known for sporty handling, refined interiors, and strong straight-six engines. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Acura TL Key Features Driving Dynamics: Rear-wheel drive platform (or xDrive), balanced chassis, communicative steering. Engine Smoothness: BMW's inline-six engines were renowned for their inherent smoothness and power delivery. Build Quality: High level of perceived and actual build quality characteristic of BMW. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Major Topics: Full service and repair instructions Page Count Estimated Page Count: Likely 1000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual of this era) Manual Type Type: Service Repair Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (likely PDF, as indicated by common sales practices) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system Drivetrain: Transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differential, axles Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS) Electrical: Engine management, lighting, instrumentation, body electronics, comfort systems, infotainment (basic) Body: Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, HVAC Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections Repair: Component disassembly and reassembly, system diagnostics and repair, component replacement Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts, common fault diagnosis, symptom-based troubleshooting Specifications: Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical schematics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repair and diagnostic procedures for professional mechanics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Searchability: Text-searchable for quick access to information. Print Quality Quality: High-resolution scans of original factory documentation. Binding Type Type: N/A (Digital format) Paper Type Type: N/A (Digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves Engine Code Specific: M52TU (for 325i, though M54 was introduced mid-cycle and might be covered depending on exact build date) Displacement: 2.5 Liters (2494 cc) Performance Horsepower: 189 hp @ 6000 rpm (for M52TU) Torque: 181 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (for M52TU) Fuel System Injection Type: Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane) Technical Details Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 75.0 mm (for M52TU) Compression Ratio: 10.2:1 (for M52TU) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Type: 5-speed Automatic Transmission (Steptronic) Features Manual Gear Ratios: Specific ratios available in the manual, typically around 3.71:1 for 1st gear. Automatic Features: Adaptive shifting, manual override (Steptronic). Fluid Specifications Manual Fluid: MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF 2) Automatic Fluid: ATF LT 71141 or equivalent 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 177.4 inches (4506 mm) Width: 68.5 inches (1739 mm) Height: 55.4 inches (1407 mm) Wheelbase: 107.3 inches (2726 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3350 - 3500 lbs (depending on transmission and options) Cargo Trunk Volume: 11.1 cubic feet (sedan) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Likely 4 stars (based on typical ratings for this era) IIHS Side Impact: Not rated for this specific year, but generally good for the era. Active Features Stability Control: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) - standard or optional Traction Control: Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T) Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags, side airbags (optional). Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: Standard BMW Business CD or Professional RDS radio, optional CD changer. Navigation: Optional BMW Business Navigation System (MK III or IV). Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control system. Connectivity Cellular: Optional BMW Assist telematics system (early cellular integration). Climate Control System: Manual or automatic climate control (HVAC) with cabin air filter. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually, as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system. Spark Plugs: Every 60,000 miles (if using original equipment long-life plugs). Coolant Flush: Every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 compliant synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40. Capacity: ~6.5 quarts (6.0 liters). Coolant: BMW Blue Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Brake Fluid: DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) brake fluid. Known Issues Cooling System: Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack; water pump failure (plastic impeller prone to breaking). Oil Leaks: Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and O-ring seals (e.g., oil filter housing, VANOS). Suspension: Control arm bushings (mentions of "bushing replacement" or "control arm refresh" are common). Electrical: ABS wheel speed sensors, alternator, VANOS solenoids (especially on M52TU). 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Bmw Legacy: BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused luxury vehicles with excellent engineering. Model Evolution E46 Generation: The E46 generation (1998-2006) was a significant evolution from the E36, praised for its refined chassis and improved...