🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 325i Codes Chassis Code: E36 Generation Generation Designation: E36 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Class: Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible Target Demographic: Sporty luxury buyers seeking performance, handling, and build quality. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi 80/A4 (B4/B5), Lexus ES300, Infiniti J30. Key Features Driving Dynamics: Renowned for balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, and engaging driving experience. Engine Performance: Smooth and powerful inline-six engine. Build Quality: Typical BMW solid construction and premium interior materials. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Years Covered: 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998 Page Count Estimated Page Count: Thousands (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals, exact count not provided in product info) Manual Type Manual Type: Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English (Assumed, standard for international market manuals) Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Service: Detailed procedures for M50B25 inline-six engine, including maintenance, diagnosis, and overhaul. Fuel System: Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, diagnostics. Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan, coolant specifications, troubleshooting. Lubrication System: Oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, oil pressure diagnosis, oil specifications. Exhaust System: Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, oxygen sensors, emissions control. Ignition System: Spark plugs, ignition coils, ECU control, ignition timing, troubleshooting. Transmission Service: Manual and automatic transmission servicing, fluid changes, component replacement, diagnostics. Drivetrain: Driveshaft, universal joints, CV joints, differential, axle shafts, maintenance and repair. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings, springs, shock absorbers), alignment procedures. Steering System: Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, power steering fluid, troubleshooting. Brake System: Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid, bleeding procedures, component replacement. Electrical System: Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays. Lighting System: Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, bulb replacement, circuit diagnosis. HVAC System: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant handling, diagnostics. Body And Chassis: Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion protection. Safety Systems: Airbag system components and diagnostics, seatbelt mechanisms. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement. Diagnostic Procedures: Troubleshooting guides for common drivability, electrical, and mechanical issues. Repair Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and installation for all major vehicle systems. Engine Rebuild: Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, machining recommendations, and reassembly. Transmission Overhaul: Instructions for complete disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of both manual and automatic transmissions. Brake Service: Procedures for pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flush, and ABS bleeding. Electrical Troubleshooting: Use of wiring diagrams to diagnose and repair electrical faults. Suspension Geometry Adjustment: Alignment specifications and procedures. Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete component overhaul and diagnostics. Diagnostic Tools: Information likely includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and guidance on using BMW-specific diagnostic tools (e.g., DIS, GT1, although specific tool names may not be present in a general manual). Torque Specifications: Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners. Wiring Diagrams: Complete electrical schematics for all vehicle systems. Special Tools: Identification and usage of specialized tools required for certain repair procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Likely text-searchable for quick information retrieval. Print Quality Image Resolution: Expected to be high-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital PDF format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M50B25 Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Inline-Six Cylinder Displacement: 2.5 Liters (2494 cc) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 75.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 Valve Train: DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) on later models within this range. Performance Horsepower Peak: 189 hp @ 5900 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly by year/market) Torque Peak: 181 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly by year/market) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch Motronic Engine Management System with Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 260/5 or similar) Optional Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 4HP22 or similar) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch (Manual) Gear Ratios: Specific ratios available in detailed technical sections of the manual. Automatic Transmission Features: Standard Drive, Sport mode (on some models), locking torque converter. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 106.1 inches (2695 mm) Length: 174.5 - 177.2 inches (4433 - 4499 mm) depending on body style (Sedan, Coupe, Convertible) Width: 67.3 inches (1709 mm) Height: 54.5 - 55.3 inches (1384 - 1405 mm) depending on body style Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3100 - 3400 lbs (1406 - 1542 kg) depending on body style and equipment. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr: Specified in manual, typically around 4300 - 4500...
Troubleshooting guides for common drivability, electrical, and mechanical issues.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and installation for all major vehicle systems.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, machining recommendations, and reassembly.
Transmission Overhaul:
Instructions for complete disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of both manual and automatic transmissions.
Brake Service:
Procedures for pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flush, and ABS bleeding.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Use of wiring diagrams to diagnose and repair electrical faults.
Suspension Geometry Adjustment:
Alignment specifications and procedures.
Technical Depth
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete component overhaul and diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information likely includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and guidance on using BMW-specific diagnostic tools (e.g., DIS, GT1, although specific tool names may not be present in a general manual).
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for certain repair procedures.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable for quick information retrieval.
Print Quality
Image Resolution:
Expected to be high-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
M50B25
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-Six Cylinder
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) on later models within this range.
Performance
Horsepower Peak:
189 hp @ 5900 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly by year/market)
Torque Peak:
181 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly by year/market)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Engine Management System with Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 260/5 or similar)
Optional
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 4HP22 or similar)
Features
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch (Manual)
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios available in detailed technical sections of the manual.
Automatic Transmission Features:
Standard Drive, Sport mode (on some models), locking torque converter.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
106.1 inches (2695 mm)
Length:
174.5 - 177.2 inches (4433 - 4499 mm) depending on body style (Sedan, Coupe, Convertible)
Width:
67.3 inches (1709 mm)
Height:
54.5 - 55.3 inches (1384 - 1405 mm) depending on body style
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3100 - 3400 lbs (1406 - 1542 kg) depending on body style and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Specified in manual, typically around 4300 - 4500 lbs.
Towing Capacity:
Not typically recommended or specified by BMW for this model.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings:
Ratings from this era are not directly comparable to modern standards. However, the E36 chassis was known for its robust structure.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) available on some models/options.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Stock cassette or CD player with AM/FM radio, optional CD changer. Basic speaker systems.
Display:
No central color display; basic LCD for radio/climate control settings.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Parking Sensors:
Not available during this production period.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Not available.
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard, aftermarket solutions available.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil used. The manual will detail specific recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific mileage, often around 60,000 miles for standard plugs, potentially longer for platinum/iridium.
Coolant Flush:
Typically every 2-3 years or specific mileage interval outlined in the manual.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-98 specification or equivalent synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40. Manual will confirm exact spec and capacity (approx. 6.5 quarts).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, specific viscosity recommended in manual (e.g., 75W-90).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF fluid. Manual will specify exact type and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid. Manual will specify.
Known Issues
Cooling System Components:
Plastic expansion tanks prone to cracking, water pump bearing failures, thermostat housing leaks.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in control arm bushings (bushings are often replaceable separately from the arm), rear subframe mounts.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter housing gasket commonly known to leak.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corrosion in wiring harnesses and connectors, particularly in engine bay and door jambs, can lead to intermittent issues.
Vanos System:
Early VANOS systems can develop issues with seals and solenoids, affecting performance and fuel economy (if equipped).
Heater Control Valve:
Failure of the heater control valve can lead to inconsistent cabin heating.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Legacy:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) has a long-standing reputation for producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles.
Model Evolution
E36 Introduction:
The E36 generation replaced the E30 3 Series and was produced from 1990 (in Europe) to 2000.
E36 Body Styles:
Available as Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Touring (Wagon), and Compact (318ti).
325I Placement:
Positioned as a mid-range performance model within the E36 lineup, above the 320i/325i (in some markets) and below the M3.
Production
Production Years:
1992-1998 (for the 325i model variant covered by this manual).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany, with some production in other global facilities.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The E36 3 Series (including variants like the 325i) was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' lists during its production run, particularly for its handling and performance.
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