🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 325i Chassis Code: E30 Production Years Covered: 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990 Codes Model Code Variant: E30 325i 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Executive Sports Sedan/Coupe Reputation: Known for its engaging driving dynamics, balanced chassis, and robust engineering, the E30 3-Series defined the premium compact sports sedan segment. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75 (Milano), Volvo 240, Ford Sierra XR4i. Key Features Driving Dynamics: Rear-wheel drive, near 50/50 weight distribution, independent suspension, responsive steering, offering a pure driving experience. Powertrain Emphasis: Focus on smooth, powerful inline-six engines combined with excellent chassis tuning. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Systems Covered: Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Body and Chassis, Interior, Climate Control, Diagnostic Procedures Page Count Estimated Page Count: Likely 500+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era) Manual Type Manual Type: Workshop Repair Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, valve train, timing, lubrication, cooling system components. Engine Management Electronic: Bosch Motronic fuel injection and ignition systems (e.g., Motronic M1.1/M1.3), sensor functions, ECU diagnostics, wiring diagrams. Drivetrain: Clutch, gearbox (Getrag 260 5-speed manual, ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic), driveshaft, differential, axle shafts. Suspension Steering: Front McPherson strut, rear semi-trailing arm, springs, shock absorbers, bushings, steering rack, power steering system, alignment specifications. Brakes: Front vented discs, rear solid discs, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics (where applicable), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures. Electrical System: Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems, fuses, relays, wiring harness routing, component testing, comprehensive wiring diagrams. Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, coolant flushes, brake pad replacement, belt inspections and replacement. Repair Procedures: Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement, body panel repairs. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, starting problems, electrical faults, and performance issues based on symptoms. Specifications Data: Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), alignment angles. Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: Comprehensive, from basic routine maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and troubleshooting. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format PDF Quality: High-resolution scans or digitally created PDF, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams. Searchable text is a strong possibility for professional manuals. Printable Pages: Typically designed to be printable, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual. Binding Type Original Binding: Original manuals were typically professionally bound (hardcover or spiral-bound) for durability in workshop environments. Paper Type Original Paper Type: Durable, often glossy or semi-gloss paper to withstand grease and extensive use. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M20B27 (SOHC Inline-6) Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated, Inline 6-Cylinder, SOHC Displacement: 2.7 Liters (2693 cc) Performance Horsepower: 121 hp @ 4800 rpm (US spec 'eta' engine for fuel economy, often detuned for emissions), ~168 hp @ 5500 rpm (Euro spec 'i' version) and ~170 hp for later US 325i (e.g., 1987+ with higher compression and revised Motronic) Torque: 170 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (US spec 'eta'), ~200 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (Euro spec 'i') and ~204 lb-ft for later US 325i Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection and ignition system (e.g., Motronic M1.1, M1.3) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (premium recommended) Engine Components Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 81.0 mm Compression Ratio: 9.0:1 (US spec 'eta'), 9.7:1 (US spec 'i' 1987+) 🔧 Transmission Standard Manual Transmission: Getrag 260 5-speed manual Optional Automatic Transmission: ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic Features Rear Axle Ratio: Typically 3.25:1 (manual), 3.46:1 (automatic) for 325i models. Varies by market and specific model year. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 170.5 inches (4330 mm) Width: 66.5 inches (1690 mm) Height: 54.5 inches (1385 mm) Wheelbase: 104.3 inches (2650 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 2800-3000 lbs (1270-1360 kg), depending on body style and options. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Performance: NHTSA ratings were not standardized as they are today. However, the E30 chassis was designed with a robust safety cell, crumple zones, and safety features considered advanced for its time. Active Features ABS: Optional on earlier models, standard on later 325i and M3 models. Passive Features Seat Belts: Three-point retractable front seat belts, lap belts for rear passengers. Steering Column: Collapsible steering column for improved impact protection. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory-installed radio/cassette player (e.g., Blaupunkt, Grundig) with optional amplifier and speaker upgrades. Basic analog controls. Driver Assistance ABS: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models, particularly noticeable in later production years. Diagnostics can be complex. Connectivity Diagnostics Port: On-board diagnostics (OBD) port existed but was not as standardized as modern systems. Manual will detail...
Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, coolant flushes, brake pad replacement, belt inspections and replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement, body panel repairs.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, starting problems, electrical faults, and performance issues based on symptoms.
Comprehensive, from basic routine maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and troubleshooting.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
PDF Quality:
High-resolution scans or digitally created PDF, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams. Searchable text is a strong possibility for professional manuals.
Printable Pages:
Typically designed to be printable, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual.
Binding Type
Original Binding:
Original manuals were typically professionally bound (hardcover or spiral-bound) for durability in workshop environments.
Paper Type
Original Paper Type:
Durable, often glossy or semi-gloss paper to withstand grease and extensive use.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
M20B27 (SOHC Inline-6)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated, Inline 6-Cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
2.7 Liters (2693 cc)
Performance
Horsepower:
121 hp @ 4800 rpm (US spec 'eta' engine for fuel economy, often detuned for emissions), ~168 hp @ 5500 rpm (Euro spec 'i' version) and ~170 hp for later US 325i (e.g., 1987+ with higher compression and revised Motronic)
Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (US spec 'eta'), ~200 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (Euro spec 'i') and ~204 lb-ft for later US 325i
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection and ignition system (e.g., Motronic M1.1, M1.3)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (premium recommended)
Engine Components
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 81.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.0:1 (US spec 'eta'), 9.7:1 (US spec 'i' 1987+)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Manual Transmission:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual
Optional
Automatic Transmission:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic
Features
Rear Axle Ratio:
Typically 3.25:1 (manual), 3.46:1 (automatic) for 325i models. Varies by market and specific model year.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
170.5 inches (4330 mm)
Width:
66.5 inches (1690 mm)
Height:
54.5 inches (1385 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.3 inches (2650 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2800-3000 lbs (1270-1360 kg), depending on body style and options.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Performance:
NHTSA ratings were not standardized as they are today. However, the E30 chassis was designed with a robust safety cell, crumple zones, and safety features considered advanced for its time.
Active Features
ABS:
Optional on earlier models, standard on later 325i and M3 models.
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
Three-point retractable front seat belts, lap belts for rear passengers.
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column for improved impact protection.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory-installed radio/cassette player (e.g., Blaupunkt, Grundig) with optional amplifier and speaker upgrades. Basic analog controls.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models, particularly noticeable in later production years. Diagnostics can be complex.
Connectivity
Diagnostics Port:
On-board diagnostics (OBD) port existed but was not as standardized as modern systems. Manual will detail specific diagnostic procedures and connector locations for the Motronic system.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, using synthetic oil. The manual will specify the exact interval and oil type.
Spark Plugs:
Recommended replacement around 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Timing Belt:
Critical component for the M20 engine. Replacement typically every 50,000-60,000 miles (80,000-100,000 km) or 5 years. Failure is catastrophic.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
Owner's manual or workshop manual will specify viscosity (e.g., 15W-50, 10W-40, or 5W-30 depending on climate and oil type). BMW recommends Castrol or equivalent high-quality synthetic. Capacity approx. 4.5 liters.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Mixture of 50/50 antifreeze and distilled water. Capacity approx. 6.5 liters.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on specific system requirements. Manual will confirm.
ATF Dexron II or III. Capacity approx. 1.7 liters for initial fill.
Known Issues
Engine Mounts:
Hydraulic engine mounts tend to leak and degrade over time, causing vibration.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Thermostat housing can also leak. Water pump seals can fail.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion in electrical connectors, particularly in engine bay, can lead to intermittent faults. Check Motronic connectors.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber bushings in control arms and trailing arms wear out, affecting handling and ride quality.
Fuel Lines:
Rubber fuel lines can degrade, leading to leaks. Metal lines can corrode.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's long-standing reputation for building driver-focused vehicles with sophisticated engineering and high build quality.
Model Evolution
E30 Introduction:
The E30 generation replaced the E21 and was produced from 1982 to 1994 globally. It saw significant updates throughout its lifecycle, including the introduction of the 325i model.
325I Introduction:
The 325i, featuring the larger 2.7L M20 engine (initially the 'eta' version for economy in some markets, later the more powerful 'i' version), was a key model in the E30 lineup, offering a significant performance upgrade.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Munich, Germany, with some production in other BMW plants.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Journalism Awards:
The E30 platform, particularly the 325i and M3 variants, consistently received high marks from automotive publications like Car and Driver, MotorTrend, and Road & Track for its performance, handling, and build quality.
Ratings
Driving Purity Ranking:
Widely regarded as one of the benchmarks for driver engagement and handling in its class, often cited in 'best handling cars' lists from its era.
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