🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 325xi Year: 2000 Codes Chassis Code: E46 Engine Code: M54B25 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon Reputation: Known for sporty handling, refined interiors, and advanced engineering for its era. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS300 Key Features Drivetrain: xDrive All-Wheel Drive System (Standard on 325xi) Handling: Balanced chassis, sophisticated multi-link rear suspension. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Type: Full Service Repair Page Count Estimated Pages: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Service & Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain (AWD) Chassis: Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels & Tires Electrical: Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Ignition, Starting, Charging, ECUs Body: Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats Fuel System: Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, EVAP system. Exhaust System: Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, oxygen sensors. Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, expansion tank, cooling fan. Steering System: Power steering pump, steering rack, tie rods, steering column. Braking System: Brake calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, brake lines, ABS unit. Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Top-offs, Tune-ups Troubleshooting: Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Code Interpretation, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Repair: Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair Restoration: Component Refurbishment, Bodywork Repair, Interior Restoration Guidance Drivetrain Repair: Driveshaft, CV joints, differential service, xDrive system troubleshooting. Electrical Diagnostics: Detailed wiring diagrams, component testing, ABS/DSC module troubleshooting, DME (Engine Control Unit) diagnostics. Body Panel Replacement: Removal and installation procedures for fenders, hoods, doors, bumpers. Interior Trim Removal: Instructions for accessing components behind dashboards, door panels, and consoles. Air Conditioning Service: Refrigerant system charging, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator). Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and electrical system diagnostics) 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Searchability: Searchable Text Printability: Printable Print Quality Resolution: High-Resolution Scans Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 6-Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated Engine Name: M54B25 Displacement: 2.5 Liters (2494 cc) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 75.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.2:1 Performance Horsepower: 184 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque: 232 Nm (171 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SMPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended) Engine Management ECU: Bosch Motronic ME 7.2 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-Speed Manual (S5D 250G) Optional Type: 5-Speed Automatic (Steptronic) Features Drivetrain Type: All-Wheel Drive (xDrive) Transfer Case: Center Differential with Power Distribution Fluid Specs Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW MTF LT-1 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF 2.1) Automatic Transmission Fluid: BMW ATF LT 71141 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF 8327 2295 204) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4471 mm (176.0 in) Width: 1739 mm (68.5 in) Height: 1415 mm (55.7 in) Wheelbase: 2760 mm (108.7 in) Front Track: 1471 mm (57.9 in) Rear Track: 1478 mm (58.2 in) Weights Curb Weight: 1520 kg (3351 lbs) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 1990 kg (4387 lbs) Wheels Tires Standard Wheel Size: 16 x 7.0 inches Standard Tire Size: 205/55R16 Optional Wheel Size: 17 x 7.5 inches Optional Tire Size: 225/45R17 Bolt Pattern: 5 x 120 mm Center Bore: 72.5 mm Capacity Fuel Tank Capacity: 62 Liters (16.4 US gallons) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 4 Stars (Driver), 4 Stars (Passenger) IIHS Side Impact: Acceptable Passive Features Airbags: Frontal Driver and Passenger Airbags, Optional Side Impact Airbags Seatbelts: 3-Point Pretensioner Seatbelts with Force Limiters Body Structure: Reinforced Safety Cell, Crumple Zones Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Standard Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) - Traction Control System Stability Control: Standard Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: Business CD Player or optional Professional CD/Navigation System Display: Dot-matrix display for OBC (On-Board Computer) and radio information. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard Electronic Cruise Control Parking Assistance: Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC) Climate Control System Type: Manual or Optional Automatic Climate Control (AUC - Automatic Recirculation Control) Lighting Headlights: Halogen Projector Headlights, Optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Variable via Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months. Air Filter Replacement: Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection. Cabin Filter Replacement: Every 15,000-30,000 miles. Spark Plug Replacement: Around 60,000 miles (check specific model variant). Coolant Flush: Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) 5W-30 Synthetic Oil (e.g., Castrol Syntec 5W-30) Engine Oil Capacity: 6.5 Liters (6.9 US quarts) Coolant: BMW Blue Coolant (G48 type) mixed 50/50 with distilled water Brake Fluid: DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) Brake Fluid Known Issues Cooling System: Plastic expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; water pump and thermostat failures common. Oil Leaks: Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and...
Variable via Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles (check specific model variant).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) 5W-30 Synthetic Oil (e.g., Castrol Syntec 5W-30)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US quarts)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48 type) mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) Brake Fluid
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; water pump and thermostat failures common.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing gasket are prone to leaks.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings and rear subframe bushings can wear out, leading to clunking noises and poor handling.
Ccv System:
Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system can clog, leading to increased oil consumption and potential seal failures.
Common Repairs
Vacuum Lines:
Degradation of vacuum lines can cause various drivability issues.
Window Regulators:
Plastic components in window regulator mechanisms are known to break.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Philosophy:
'The Ultimate Driving Machine' - emphasis on performance, handling, and engineering.
Model Evolution
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) was a significant evolution of the 3 Series platform, known for its improved dynamics and technology.
325Xi Introduction:
The 'xi' designation signifies BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system, which debuted in the E46 generation for enhanced traction and stability.
Production
Production Period:
E46 3 Series produced from 1998 to 2006. The 325xi model was introduced in the 2001 model year in North America, but this manual covers the 2000 model year, likely reflecting the earlier European introduction or an earlier build date.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car Of The Year Nominations:
The E46 generation received numerous accolades globally for its design and driving dynamics.
Ward S 10 Best Engines:
The M54 engine series was frequently recognized for its smoothness and performance.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Mixed reliability ratings for early E46 models, with improvements in later years. Maintenance is key.
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