🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 325i Model Variant: 325 Year: 1999 Codes Chassis Code: E46 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Positioning: The E46 3 Series was positioned as a premium compact executive sedan and coupe, renowned for its driving dynamics, build quality, and sophisticated engineering, competing with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Mercedes-Benz W202 C-Class, Audi B5 A4, Lexus IS200, Alfa Romeo 155. Key Features Key Features Vehicle: Rear-wheel drive platform, balanced chassis, driver-focused interior, inline-six engine reputation for smoothness and power delivery. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Engines Covered: All Engine Variants for 325i model Transmission Types Covered: All Transmission Types (Manual and Automatic) Trim Levels Covered: All Trim Levels Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500+ Manual Type Manual Type: Workshop Repair Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download Completeness Manual Completeness: This is a comprehensive workshop manual, covering all aspects of service, maintenance, and repair for the specified vehicle. 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (M52B25), Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain (Transmission, Driveshafts, Differential) Chassis: Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS) Electrical: Engine Control Unit (ECU), Ignition System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Body Control Module (BCM) Body: Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Climate Control System Climate Control: Manual and automatic climate control systems, A/C system servicing, heater core replacement, blower motor diagnosis. Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine Service Intervals, Fluid Checks & Replacements, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection & Replacement Diagnostics Troubleshooting: Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Electrical System Diagnostics, Engine Performance Issues Repair Replacement: Engine Component Rebuilds, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Replacement, Body Panel Repair Special Tools: Identification and usage of specialized BMW tools for specific procedures Electrical Schematics: Detailed wiring diagrams for all major vehicle systems, including engine management, lighting, power accessories, and safety systems. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive - from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures. Diagnostic Tools Coverage: Information pertaining to using BMW's diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1, DIS) and interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Portable Document Format (PDF) Print Quality Print Quality: High-resolution, printable pages with clear diagrams and text. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) Searchability Searchability: Searchable text for quick information retrieval. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M52TU B25 Engine Type: 2.5L DOHC Inline-6 Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 75.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.2:1 Performance Horsepower: 189 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque: 181 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Injection: Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane) Engine Management Engine Control Unit: Bosch Motronic ME 7.2 (or similar) Ignition System: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual coil-on-plug ignition. Valve Train Valve Actuation: Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves (4 per cylinder), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Optional Transmission: 5-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission Features Transmission Features: Rear-wheel drive, limited-slip differential available on some models. Fluid Type Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW recommends specific synthetic manual transmission fluids (e.g., ATF Dexron III or equivalent). Automatic Transmission Fluid: BMW recommends specific synthetic ATF fluids (e.g., ATF Dexron III or equivalent). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4,471 mm (176.0 in) Width: Approx. 1,739 mm (68.5 in) Height: Approx. 1,415 mm (55.7 in) Wheelbase: Approx. 2,725 mm (107.3 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1,480 - 1,550 kg (3,263 - 3,417 lbs), depending on configuration. Cargo Trunk Volume: Approx. 440 liters (15.5 cu ft) Interior Front Headroom: Approx. 980 mm (38.6 in) Front Legroom: Approx. 1,040 mm (40.9 in) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Rating: 4/5 stars (1999 Model Year) Active Features Active Safety Features: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) (optional on some models) Passive Features Passive Safety Features: Frontal Airbags, Side-impact Protection System (SIPS), Crumple Zones, Seatbelt Pretensioners. Chassis Design Chassis Safety Design: Advanced chassis design with a focus on occupant protection and handling stability. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Limited early-generation navigation systems may have been available. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: Cruise control, rear parking sensors (optional on some models). Connectivity Connectivity Options: Analog radio reception, optional analog cellular phone integration on some higher-spec models. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to Condition Based Service (CBS) or manual recommendations. Spark Plug Replacement: Approximately every 60,000 miles (check specific recommendations). Coolant Flush: Every 2-3 years or as per manual. BMW Blue coolant is typically used. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Specification: SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic Engine Oil...
The E46 3 Series was positioned as a premium compact executive sedan and coupe, renowned for its driving dynamics, build quality, and sophisticated engineering, competing with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4.
Rear-wheel drive, limited-slip differential available on some models.
Fluid Type
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends specific synthetic manual transmission fluids (e.g., ATF Dexron III or equivalent).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends specific synthetic ATF fluids (e.g., ATF Dexron III or equivalent).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 4,471 mm (176.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,739 mm (68.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,415 mm (55.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,725 mm (107.3 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,480 - 1,550 kg (3,263 - 3,417 lbs), depending on configuration.
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 440 liters (15.5 cu ft)
Interior
Front Headroom:
Approx. 980 mm (38.6 in)
Front Legroom:
Approx. 1,040 mm (40.9 in)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
4/5 stars (1999 Model Year)
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) (optional on some models)
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Frontal Airbags, Side-impact Protection System (SIPS), Crumple Zones, Seatbelt Pretensioners.
Chassis Design
Chassis Safety Design:
Advanced chassis design with a focus on occupant protection and handling stability.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Limited early-generation navigation systems may have been available.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, rear parking sensors (optional on some models).
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Analog radio reception, optional analog cellular phone integration on some higher-spec models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to Condition Based Service (CBS) or manual recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000 miles (check specific recommendations).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as per manual. BMW Blue coolant is typically used.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic Engine Oil meeting BMW LL-01 or LL-98 specifications.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol-based, mixed 50/50 with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or BMW's specified power steering fluid.
Known Issues
Common Issues Engine:
VANOS solenoid issues, oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket, coolant expansion tank cracks.
Common Issues Cooling:
Water pump failures, thermostat housing leaks, radiator leaks.
Common Issues Suspension:
Control arm bushings wear, rear shock mounts failure, subframe bushings fatigue.
Mann-Filter HU 821 / 1x or Mahle OX 104/1DE (check for exact fitment)
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter C 35 177 or Mahle LX 588 (check for exact fitment)
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing sporty, driver-oriented luxury vehicles with a strong emphasis on engineering and performance since its inception.
Model Evolution
E46 Generation Introduction:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 1998 for the 1999 model year, succeeding the E36 generation. It marked a significant evolution in design, technology, and driving dynamics.
Production
Production Years E46:
1998-2006 (global), with the 325i model being prominent throughout this period.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The E46 3 Series, including models like the 325i, was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production run, lauded for its handling and performance.
Ratings
Value Retention:
The E46 generation is known for holding its value well relative to its segment, indicative of its desirability and build quality.
Een selectie kiezen resulteert in het geheel verversen van de pagina.