Includes procedures for rebuilding major components like the engine, transmission, and differentials.
Diagnostic Tools:
References to diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and general diagnostic principles applicable to BMW's proprietary systems of the era.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchable:
Yes (typically, depending on OCR quality)
Printable:
Yes
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution scans providing clear text and diagrams.
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF download)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital PDF download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
M54B25 Inline-6, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Double VANOS
Performance
Horsepower Hp:
184 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Lb-Ft:
245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Induction:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Emission Controls:
Secondary air injection, catalytic converters, EWS (Electronic Immobilizer)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
5-speed GM 5L40-E Automatic Transmission
Optional
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (ZF GS6-37BZ)
Features
AWD System:
xDrive Variable All-Wheel Drive with electronic torque distribution.
Automatic Modes:
Steptronic (manual shifting mode)
Fluid Type
Automatic Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent approved Dexron VI-based fluid)
Manual Fluid:
BMW MTF-LT-2 (or equivalent approved synthetic manual transmission fluid)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4521 mm (178.0 in)
Width:
1739 mm (68.5 in)
Height:
1427 mm (56.2 in)
Wheelbase:
2760 mm (108.7 in)
Weights
Curb Weight Kg:
Approximately 1565 kg (3470 lbs) for automatic transmission
Gross Weight Kg:
Approximately 2030 kg (4475 lbs)
Cargo
Trunk Volume Liters:
445 Liters (15.7 cu ft)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for driver and passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
4-Star (for front seats)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Dsc:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (includes DTC - Dynamic Traction Control)
Brake Assist:
Standard
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), front side-impact airbags, available head curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children)
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
System Name:
BMW Professional Radio, available with CD player and optional navigation system.
I Drive:
Early generation iDrive system available on some models, controlling navigation, audio, climate, and vehicle settings.
Speakers:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear.
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth phone preparation with voice control.
Aux Input:
Optional AUX input for audio devices.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for exact CBS reset procedures.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Coolant Flush:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant. Initial change at ~7 years or 100,000 miles, then every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles thereafter, depending on fluid type and condition.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on plug type (e.g., NGK BKR6EQUP or equivalent).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) specification, SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 synthetic oil. Capacity: ~6.5 liters (with filter).
BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G2 (SAF-XJ) or equivalent SAE 75W-140. Capacity: ~0.75 liters.
Differential Fluid Rear:
BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G2 (SAF-XJ) or equivalent SAE 75W-140. Capacity: ~1.0 liter.
Transfer Case Fluid:
BMW Transfer Case Fluid (ATF type), often a Dexron III H equivalent. Capacity: ~0.6 liters.
Known Issues
Crankcase Ventilation:
Clogged PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system can lead to oil leaks, rough idle, and performance issues. The integrated PCV system in the valve cover is often replaced as an assembly.
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Water pump and thermostat failures are also common. Ensure proper bleed procedure is followed after service.
Vanos System:
The VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system solenoids can fail, leading to rough idle, low-end torque loss, and check engine lights. Seals on the VANOS unit can also degrade.
Ignition Coils:
Coil-on-plug ignition coils can fail, causing misfires. Replacement is typically done individually or in sets.
ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:
These sensors can fail, triggering ABS and DSC warning lights. They are integrated into the hub assembly.
Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:
Common due to age and material degradation. Often requires removal of subframe for access.
Subframe Bushings:
Rear subframe bushings can wear out, causing clunking noises and imprecise handling.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW), Germany
Foundation:
1916
Model Evolution
E46 Generation:
Fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series, produced from 1998 to 2006 (globally).
325Xi Introduction:
The 'xi' designation signifies the all-wheel-drive variant, introduced to enhance all-weather capability. The 2004 model year is part of the facelifted E46 generation (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse).
Production
Production Years:
2001-2005 (for E46 325xi Sedan)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary assembly in Munich, Germany; also produced in South Africa and various other BMW plants globally.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Sales Success:
The E46 generation was a significant sales success for BMW, reinforcing its position in the premium compact sedan market.
Car And Driver 10Best:
While not specifically for the 325xi, the E46 3 Series platform was a perennial recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production run, highlighting its exceptional driving dynamics.
Consumer Reports:
Generally received positive ratings for performance and driving dynamics, though some years and models had specific reliability concerns that this manual would help address.
Certifications
Manual Standard:
This manual adheres to industry standards for technical service documentation, providing accurate and detailed information for professional use.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.