May include information on basic diagnostic tool usage and module coding (depending on specific manual scope).
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive
Detail Level:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIYers.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor data interpretation, and flowcharts for fault finding.
Torque Specifications:
All critical torque values for engine, chassis, and drivetrain components.
Clearances And Tolerances:
Precise measurements for engine components and bearing clearances.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics covering all vehicle systems, including component locations and pinouts.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.
Printability:
Printable pages, allowing for a physical copy for workshop use.
Print Quality
Image Resolution:
High-resolution diagrams and illustrations.
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Type
Paper:
N/A (Digital PDF)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
M54B30
Engine Type:
3.0L DOHC Inline-6
Displacement:
2979 cc (3.0 Liters)
Performance
Horsepower:
225 hp @ 5900 rpm
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) with Bosch Motronic ME 7.2 control.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane Recommended)
Engine Management
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic ME 7.2
Emission Control:
Dual O2 sensors, secondary air injection, EGR (may vary by market).
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag GS5-39DZ)
Optional
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (GM A5S360R/A5S390R)
Features
Traction Control:
Available DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) integration.
Fluid Specifications
Manual Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent Pentosin MTF2)
Automatic Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent ATF)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
177.4 inches (4505 mm)
Width:
68.3 inches (1735 mm)
Height:
56.2 inches (1427 mm)
Wheelbase:
107.4 inches (2728 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
3263 - 3397 lbs (1480 - 1541 kg) depending on transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
4300 - 4400 lbs (1950 - 2000 kg)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 stars (driver/passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
4/5 stars (driver/passenger)
Active Features
Traction Control:
Standard ASC (Automatic Stability Control) on some models, optional DSC.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Stability Control:
Optional Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including DTC (Dynamic Traction Control).
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD or BMW Professional RDS CD players available.
Navigation:
Optional BMW Business or Professional Navigation systems.
Driver Assistance
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear Park Distance Control (PDC).
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free system.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000-15,000 km) or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for original plugs.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (50,000 km).
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 approved recommended).
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 US quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48) or equivalent propylene glycol based coolant.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S (or equivalent spec).
Known Issues
Crankcase Ventilation System:
Clogged PCV valve and hoses leading to oil leaks and rough idle.
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank cracking, water pump failure, thermostat housing leaks.
Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:
Common due to age and material degradation.
Valve Cover Gasket Leaks:
Another common source of oil leaks.
Rear Main Seal Leaks:
Requires transmission removal for replacement.
ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:
Frequent failure, leading to ABS and traction control warnings.
Oil Filter Housing Gasket:
Leaking O-rings are a common failure point.
Automatic Transmission Conductive Plate:
Can fail in GM-based transmissions, causing shifting issues.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand History:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) is a German luxury vehicle and motorcycle manufacturer founded in 1916.
Model Evolution
E46 Introduction:
The E46 chassis replaced the E36 and was produced from 1998 to 2006. The 325i model designation became prominent in 2000, often featuring the 3.0L M54 engine.
Engine Progression:
The M54 engine series, including the M54B30, marked a significant improvement in performance and refinement over the previous M52/M52TU engines.
Production
Production Location:
Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing, Regensburg), also South Africa and Thailand.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The E46 3-Series (including the 325i variants) was a consistent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best award.
Overall Reputation:
Widely praised for its balance of performance, luxury, and reliability, establishing it as a benchmark in its class.
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