Sedan (4-door), Coupe (2-door), Convertible (2-door), Touring (Wagon - less common in North America)
Codes
Engine Code:
M50B25
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Positioning:
The E36 generation BMW 3 Series, including the 325i, represented BMW's strong foothold in the premium compact executive segment, known for its driving dynamics, build quality, and performance.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed directly with the Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), and Lexus ES300 of the era.
Key Features
Driving Experience:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, responsive steering, and the smooth power delivery of its inline-six engine.
Build Quality:
Exhibited BMW's characteristic solid build quality and robust engineering.
Manual Value
Value Proposition:
This workshop manual is an indispensable resource for owners and independent mechanics, providing the detailed technical information required for proper maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of the 1995 BMW 325i.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage:
All Models, Engines, Trim Levels, Transmission Types
Page Count
Page Count:
Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual)
Approx. 3200-3400 lbs (1450-1540 kg) depending on body style and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4300-4500 lbs (1950-2040 kg)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 15.1 cubic feet (428 liters) for sedan
Wheels Tires
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
Standard Wheel Size:
15 inch or 16 inch alloy wheels
Standard Tire Size:
205/60R15 or 225/50R16
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for sedans of this era, specific 1995 ratings may vary).
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Bosch 3-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control plus Traction).
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (SRS).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners (front), 3-point belts (rear).
Child Safety:
Rear seat child restraints (LATCH system not standard in this era), manual rear door locks.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory-installed cassette or CD players, optional premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon).
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (dual-zone).
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Headlights:
Halogen projector headlights, often with integrated fog lamps.
Connectivity
Original Connectivity:
Limited to basic radio and communication features; no modern Bluetooth or USB integration without aftermarket modifications.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km), depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 to 3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, as brake fluid is hygroscopic.
Fluid Specifications
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II/III or Pentosin CHF 11S (check specific reservoir marking).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 3
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; water pump impellers can degrade. Regular inspection and replacement are crucial.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings (specifically the front control arm bushings or 'bushings of death'), rear shock mounts, and tie rod ends are common wear items.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and rear main seals are prone to leaking over time.
Electrical:
Cracked vacuum lines, failing window regulators, door handle microswitches, and intermittent dashboard warning lights.
Engine M50:
VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) unit can develop a rattle or fail to operate correctly due to worn seals.
Exhaust System:
Cracked exhaust manifolds or failing catalytic converters.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
BMW, founded in 1916, has a long-standing reputation for producing sporting sedans and performance vehicles, emphasizing 'The Ultimate Driving Machine'.
Model Evolution
E36 Introduction:
The E36 generation replaced the E30 3 Series in 1990/1991 for the 1991 model year. The 325i model, powered by the M50 engine, was introduced for the 1991 model year in Europe and 1992 in North America.
E36 Updates:
The 1995 model year falls within the mid-cycle update phase for the E36, which saw minor styling tweaks, updated interior features, and some mechanical revisions over its production run (1991-1998 in North America).
Production
Production Period:
E36 production ran from 1990 to 2000 globally, with North American production ending in 1998. The 325i was produced during most of this period.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary assembly for North American markets was Dingolfing, Germany, with some vehicles also assembled in Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E36 3 Series, including the 325i, was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production years, lauded for its driving dynamics.
Overall Reputation:
Widely regarded as one of the best-driving sedans and coupes of its era, earning critical acclaim for its handling and performance.
Certifications
Safety Standards:
Compliant with all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for 1995.
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