🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 325xi Year: 2003 Chassis Code: E46 Engine Variant Covered: 325xi (AWD) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Entry-luxury sports sedan Positioning: The 3 Series is BMW's core model, known for its driving dynamics, quality, and sophisticated engineering. The 325xi variant adds all-wheel-drive capability, enhancing traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions, appealing to a broader market segment. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class AWD variants (e.g., C240 4MATIC), Lexus IS300 AWD Key Features Features: xDrive All-Wheel Drive, powerful inline-six engine, balanced chassis, premium interior, driver-focused ergonomics 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types for the 2003 BMW 325xi Primary Focus: Workshop Repair and Service Page Count Estimated Pages: Extensive, likely over 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals) Manual Type Type: Workshop Repair Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (M54B30), Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain (xDrive AWD System), Transmission (Automatic & Manual) Chassis: Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, DSC), Wheel Alignment Electrical: Engine Management (DME), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting System, Instrumentation, HVAC Controls, Audio System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors) Body: Body Exterior (Panels, Bumpers, Doors, Hood, Trunk), Interior Trim, Seats, Airbag System Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes (Oil, Coolant, Brake, Power Steering, Transmission), Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection/Replacement Repair: Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair Troubleshooting: Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Electrical Schematics Interpretation, Mechanical Component Diagnosis Specifications: Torque Specifications, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Values, Diagnostic Parameters Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete rebuild procedures. Includes detailed exploded diagrams and wiring schematics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Likely searchable text-based PDF for efficient information retrieval Printability: Printable for physical reference in a workshop environment Print Quality Quality: High-resolution, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M54B30 Configuration: 3.0L (2979cc) DOHC Inline-6 Valvetrain: 24 Valves (4 per cylinder), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) Performance Horsepower: 225 hp @ 6,000 rpm Torque: 214 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm Fuel System Injection Type: Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended) Engine Management ECU: Siemens MS43 (or MS43.1 in some late models) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed Steptronic Automatic (with manual shifting mode) Optional Transmission Type Optional: 6-speed Manual Transmission Features Drivetrain: xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Electronic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control (ASC+T) Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid: BMW LT-3 (or equivalent ATF specification, e.g., Shell M-1375.4, Esso JWS 3309) Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW MTF-LT-1 or MTF-LT-2 (or equivalent manual transmission fluid specification) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 177.4 inches (4505 mm) Width: 68.7 inches (1745 mm) Height: 55.2 inches (1402 mm) Wheelbase: 107.4 inches (2729 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3571 lbs (1620 kg) for automatic transmission Cargo Trunk Capacity: 13.6 cu ft (385 L) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 5 Stars (Driver & Passenger) NHTSA Side Impact: 4 Stars (Front Passenger) / 5 Stars (Rear Passenger) Active Features Electronic Stability Control: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard 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 (driver and passenger), Side-impact airbags (front), Available Head Protection System (HPS) airbags Seatbelts: Pretensioner seatbelts with force limiters 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: BMW Professional Radio/CD player, optional navigation system (MK4), optional Harman Kardon sound system. Connectivity Options: Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface (check if standard on specific trims/packages) Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: Cruise Control, Rain-sensing wipers (optional), Xenon Adaptive Headlights (optional). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system dictates intervals, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Manual will specify exact CBS parameters. Inspect Brakes: Check at every oil service, detailed inspection every 2 years or 20,000 miles. Replace Air Filter: Every 30,000 miles or as per CBS. Replace Cabin Filter: Every 15,000 miles or annually. Replace Spark Plugs: Typically every 100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs. Manual will specify exact type and interval. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Capacity: 6.5 US quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change. Engine Oil Type: BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 synthetic oil, SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30. Manual will provide precise specifications. Coolant Type: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 4 (BMW High Performance Brake Fluid) Known Issues Common Issues: PCV valve failures (oil leaks, rough idle), VANOS solenoid issues, coolant expansion tank cracks, oil filter housing gasket leaks, spark plug well oil contamination, rear subframe cracking (less common on AWD models but...
The 3 Series is BMW's core model, known for its driving dynamics, quality, and sophisticated engineering. The 325xi variant adds all-wheel-drive capability, enhancing traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions, appealing to a broader market segment.
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete rebuild procedures. Includes detailed exploded diagrams and wiring schematics.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Likely searchable text-based PDF for efficient information retrieval
Printability:
Printable for physical reference in a workshop environment
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
M54B30
Configuration:
3.0L (2979cc) DOHC Inline-6
Valvetrain:
24 Valves (4 per cylinder), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system dictates intervals, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Manual will specify exact CBS parameters.
Inspect Brakes:
Check at every oil service, detailed inspection every 2 years or 20,000 miles.
Replace Air Filter:
Every 30,000 miles or as per CBS.
Replace Cabin Filter:
Every 15,000 miles or annually.
Replace Spark Plugs:
Typically every 100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs. Manual will specify exact type and interval.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 US quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 synthetic oil, SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30. Manual will provide precise specifications.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (BMW High Performance Brake Fluid)
Known Issues
Common Issues:
PCV valve failures (oil leaks, rough idle), VANOS solenoid issues, coolant expansion tank cracks, oil filter housing gasket leaks, spark plug well oil contamination, rear subframe cracking (less common on AWD models but possible), cooling system component failures (water pump, thermostat).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
BMW, founded in 1916, has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused, performance-oriented vehicles with advanced engineering.
Model Evolution
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) of the 3 Series represented a significant leap in design, technology, and refinement over its E36 predecessor. The 325xi variant was introduced to offer the renowned 3 Series driving experience with enhanced all-weather capability.
Production
Production Years:
E46 3 Series produced from 1998 to 2006. The 325xi model was available during the latter half of this period.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
General 3 Series Reputation:
The E46 3 Series consistently received critical acclaim for its driving dynamics, build quality, and overall performance, frequently appearing on '10 Best Cars' lists from automotive publications during its production run.
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