🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 325i Generation: E46 Codes Chassis Code: E46 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe Prestige: Premium, performance-oriented luxury vehicle Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS300, Acura TL Key Features Driving Dynamics: Renowned for balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive dynamics, and driver engagement Powertrain Emphasis: Inline-six engines known for smooth power delivery and characteristic BMW sound Build Quality: High level of fit and finish, robust construction characteristic of BMW engineering 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Applicable Years: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 Covered Models: BMW 325i Page Count Estimated Pages: Extensive (typical for comprehensive BMW workshop manuals) Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (likely PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Fuel System, Exhaust System Chassis: Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels, Tires Electrical: Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Ignition, Starting System, Charging System, Instrumentation, Body Electronics (ECU, modules) Body: Bodywork, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, HVAC System, Safety Restraints (Airbags) Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine service, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-II) Repair: Component removal and installation, disassembly and reassembly, component testing and adjustment Technical Specifications: Torque specifications, clearances, alignment data, diagnostic parameters Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics and repair. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Text-searchable (typical for professional PDFs) Printable: Yes (typically) Print Quality Quality: High-resolution diagrams and text (expected for digital workshop manuals) Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital format) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M54B30 (primarily for 330i, but common engine family) Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder Displacement: 2.5 Liters (2494 cc) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 75.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.2:1 Valve Train: Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) Performance Horsepower: 184 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate, depending on specific market and tuning) Torque: 235 Nm (173 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (approximate) Fuel System Injection Type: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME 7.2 or similar) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended) Engine Management ECU: Engine Control Unit (ECU) with diagnostic capabilities 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual (Getrag 250 or similar) Optional Transmission Type: 5-Speed Automatic (ZF 5HP19 or similar) Features Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Differential: Open Differential (optional limited-slip differential may have been available) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4471 mm (176.0 in) for Sedan Width: Approx. 1739 mm (68.5 in) Height: Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 in) for Sedan Wheelbase: Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1500-1550 kg (3300-3400 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 4-Star (Driver), 4-Star (Passenger) - for comparable E46 sedans of that era IIHS Side Impact: Good (for comparable E46 sedans of that era) Active Features Stability Control: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard on most models/years Traction Control: Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T) Braking System: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags, Side-impact airbags (optional or standard depending on market/year) Seat Belts: 3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners Body Structure: Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: BMW Business CD or Professional CD/Radio. Optional navigation system (MK III or MK IV). Speakers: Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium sound system. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control Parking Sensors: Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) Connectivity Bluetooth: Not typically factory-equipped for this era. Aftermarket solutions available. Usb Aux: Not factory-equipped. Aftermarket CD changers or aux inputs may have been optioned. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Filter Replacement: Air filter: ~30,000 miles; Cabin filter: ~15,000 miles or annually; Fuel filter: High-quality, long-life, often not on a fixed schedule but checked. Spark Plugs: Approx. 100,000 miles (e.g., Bosch FGR7DQP+ or equivalent NGK equivalent like BKR6EQUP) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting BMW LL-01 or LL-98 specifications. Capacity: Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts). Coolant: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 type), mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity: Approx. 8.0 liters (8.5 US quarts). Transmission Fluid Manual: API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. Capacity: Approx. 1.5 liters (1.6 US quarts). Transmission Fluid Automatic: ZF LifeguardFluid 5 (or equivalent ATF). Capacity: Approx. 7.0 liters (7.4 US quarts) for a dry fill. Brake Fluid: DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) or DOT 4 Plus. Changed every 2 years. Known Issues Cooling System: Plastic expansion tank cracks, water pump failure (often plastic impeller), thermostat housing leaks. Oil Leaks: Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter housing gasket, CCV system leaks. Suspension: Worn control arm bushings (vibrations, steering wander), sway...
CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system blockage leading to oil consumption and pressure issues.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Legacy:
Long history of producing performance-oriented, driver-focused luxury vehicles
Model Evolution
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation replaced the E36 generation and was produced from 1998 to 2006 (model years vary by market).
325I Positioning:
Positioned as a mid-range model within the E46 lineup, offering a balance of performance and luxury, sitting above the 323i and below the 330i.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany, with some assembly in other global locations.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E46 3-series (including variants close to the 325i) was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production run, highlighting its exceptional driving dynamics and overall value proposition.
Popular Mechanics Car Of The Year:
While specific awards for the 325i are numerous, the E46 generation as a whole was widely praised by automotive journalists for its blend of performance, luxury, and build quality.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.