🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 325is Year: 1994 Codes Chassis Code: E36 Engine Code Common: M50B25TU 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Entry-level luxury sports coupe/sedan Target Audience: Enthusiast owners, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics Competitive Analysis Competitors 1994: Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi 80/90 (B4), Acura Legend, Lexus ES250/300, Infiniti J30 Key Features Vehicle Driving Dynamics: Renowned for its balanced chassis, responsive steering, and engaging driving experience. Key Features Manual Convenience: Digital format offers instant access, searchability, and portability compared to traditional printed manuals. Official Licensing: Officially licensed, implying high accuracy and completeness, likely derived from BMW's internal service documentation. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Mechanical Repair and Maintenance Secondary Coverage: Electrical Systems, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Comprehensive coverage of the M50B25TU inline-6 engine, including disassembly, assembly, tuning, and diagnostics. Transmission: Detailed procedures for both the Getrag 260 5-speed manual and the ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmissions, including hydraulic and mechanical components. Drivetrain: Coverage of rear-wheel drive system, including differential, driveshaft, and axles. Suspension Steering: Complete front and rear suspension systems (McPherson struts front, multi-link rear), steering rack, power steering system, and wheel alignment specifications. Brakes: Front and rear disc brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, brake fluid specifications, and caliper/rotor replacement. Electrical: Extensive wiring diagrams, component location, troubleshooting for lighting, starting, charging, ignition, fuel injection, HVAC, and instrument cluster. Body Chassis: Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim removal, chassis component identification, and corrosion prevention. Climate Control: Manual and automatic climate control systems, HVAC component replacement (compressor, evaporator, heater core), refrigerant handling (R134a conversion often needed for this era). Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt tensioning, coolant flushes, and brake fluid changes. Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and fault code interpretation (where applicable). Repair: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, overhaul, installation, and adjustment for virtually every system. Diagnostics: Detailed guidance on using diagnostic tools (BMW GT1/INPA compatibility might be mentioned if software is very comprehensive), interpreting sensor data, and checking system pressures. Technical Depth Depth: Expert level. Covers complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, complex electrical diagnostics, and body repair. Data Precision: Includes precise torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and resistance values. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Likely searchable PDF or proprietary software with search functionality. High-resolution diagrams and clear text. Print Quality Printability: Designed for digital viewing; printable pages for workshop use. Clarity of diagrams is critical and expected to be high. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Software) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Software) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves Engine Code: M50B25TU (Technical Update) Displacement: 2494 cc (2.5 Liters) Performance Horsepower: 189 hp @ 5900 rpm Torque: 245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 4200 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch Motronic 3.3 DME (Digital Engine Electronics) with Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded (91+ octane recommended) Technical Details Vanos: Single VANOS (Variable Nockenwellensteuerung) system on intake camshaft for improved torque curve and efficiency. Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission Optional Type: ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission Features Clutch: Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch Differential: Limited Slip Differential (LSD) standard on 325is model. Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW recommends ATF Dexron II-E or equivalent for Getrag 260. Later models might specify MTF LT-2. Manual will clarify. Automatic Transmission Fluid: ZF HP 24/4HP22 requires ATF Dexron II-E or equivalent. Manual will specify exact type and quantity. Gear Ratios Manual Final Drive: Typically 3.46:1 for 5-speed manual with LSD 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4433 mm (174.5 in) Width: 1711 mm (67.4 in) Height: 1370 mm (53.9 in) Wheelbase: 2700 mm (106.3 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1450 kg (3200 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Niosh Crash Test: Information not readily available in a standardized digital format for this era's vehicles from independent agencies. Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all four wheels. Traction Control: ASR (Antriebsschlupfregelung) - Automatic Stability Control, optional or standard depending on market and specific options. The manual will detail its operation and diagnostics. Passive Features Airbags: Driver-side airbag standard. Passenger airbag optional or not available on all models/markets. Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Standard BMW Bavaria C Business CD or similar. Options for upgraded sound systems and CD changers available. Manual covers wiring and component replacement. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Electronic cruise control system. Connectivity Diagnostics Port: Early OBD-I diagnostic port, typically located near the firewall or under the dash. Manual will detail connector pinouts...
Renowned for its balanced chassis, responsive steering, and engaging driving experience.
Key Features Manual
Convenience:
Digital format offers instant access, searchability, and portability compared to traditional printed manuals.
Official Licensing:
Officially licensed, implying high accuracy and completeness, likely derived from BMW's internal service documentation.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical Repair and Maintenance
Secondary Coverage:
Electrical Systems, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
1500+
Manual Type
Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable)
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage of the M50B25TU inline-6 engine, including disassembly, assembly, tuning, and diagnostics.
Transmission:
Detailed procedures for both the Getrag 260 5-speed manual and the ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmissions, including hydraulic and mechanical components.
Drivetrain:
Coverage of rear-wheel drive system, including differential, driveshaft, and axles.
Suspension Steering:
Complete front and rear suspension systems (McPherson struts front, multi-link rear), steering rack, power steering system, and wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, brake fluid specifications, and caliper/rotor replacement.
Electrical:
Extensive wiring diagrams, component location, troubleshooting for lighting, starting, charging, ignition, fuel injection, HVAC, and instrument cluster.
Body Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim removal, chassis component identification, and corrosion prevention.
Climate Control:
Manual and automatic climate control systems, HVAC component replacement (compressor, evaporator, heater core), refrigerant handling (R134a conversion often needed for this era).
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt tensioning, coolant flushes, and brake fluid changes.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, overhaul, installation, and adjustment for virtually every system.
Diagnostics:
Detailed guidance on using diagnostic tools (BMW GT1/INPA compatibility might be mentioned if software is very comprehensive), interpreting sensor data, and checking system pressures.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Expert level. Covers complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, complex electrical diagnostics, and body repair.
Data Precision:
Includes precise torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and resistance values.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
Likely searchable PDF or proprietary software with search functionality. High-resolution diagrams and clear text.
Print Quality
Printability:
Designed for digital viewing; printable pages for workshop use. Clarity of diagrams is critical and expected to be high.
Single VANOS (Variable Nockenwellensteuerung) system on intake camshaft for improved torque curve and efficiency.
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission
Optional
Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission
Features
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch
Differential:
Limited Slip Differential (LSD) standard on 325is model.
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends ATF Dexron II-E or equivalent for Getrag 260. Later models might specify MTF LT-2. Manual will clarify.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF HP 24/4HP22 requires ATF Dexron II-E or equivalent. Manual will specify exact type and quantity.
Gear Ratios
Manual Final Drive:
Typically 3.46:1 for 5-speed manual with LSD
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4433 mm (174.5 in)
Width:
1711 mm (67.4 in)
Height:
1370 mm (53.9 in)
Wheelbase:
2700 mm (106.3 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1450 kg (3200 lbs)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Niosh Crash Test:
Information not readily available in a standardized digital format for this era's vehicles from independent agencies.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all four wheels.
Traction Control:
ASR (Antriebsschlupfregelung) - Automatic Stability Control, optional or standard depending on market and specific options. The manual will detail its operation and diagnostics.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard. Passenger airbag optional or not available on all models/markets.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard BMW Bavaria C Business CD or similar. Options for upgraded sound systems and CD changers available. Manual covers wiring and component replacement.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control system.
Connectivity
Diagnostics Port:
Early OBD-I diagnostic port, typically located near the firewall or under the dash. Manual will detail connector pinouts and diagnostic procedures.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually. The manual will provide specific recommendations based on driving conditions and oil type.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles for standard plugs, or potentially longer for platinum/iridium plugs if fitted. Manual will specify.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-40,000 miles. Manual will specify BMW coolant type.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-98 or equivalent synthetic oil, typically SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40. Manual will specify the precise BMW approval number.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 High Performance brake fluid.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors.
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Water pump failure is also common. The manual will detail replacement procedures and preventative measures.
Suspension Components:
Worn control arm bushings (bushings are often integral), tie rod ends, and rear shock mounts are common wear items.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corroded ground points, failing ABS sensors, and intermittent issues with door lock actuators or window regulators are not uncommon. The manual's electrical diagrams are crucial here.
Vanos System:
VANOS solenoids can fail, leading to rough idle or loss of low-end torque. The manual will provide diagnostic steps and potential rebuild procedures.
Part Numbers Example
Oil Filter Part Number:
BMW part number 11 42 1 741 272 (or equivalent Mann-Filter, Mahle, Hengst part numbers will be in the manual).
Air Filter Part Number:
BMW part number 13 72 1 730 945 (or equivalent).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused, performance-oriented vehicles ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').
Model Evolution
E36 Generation:
The E36 generation (1990-2000) represented a significant step forward in chassis design, technology, and refinement over its E30 predecessor.
325Is Positioning:
The 'is' designation typically denoted a sportier coupe model with a larger engine and often upgraded suspension/aesthetics compared to the standard 325i sedan.
Production
Production Years:
The E36 325is coupe was produced from 1992 to 1995 in North America.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Dingolfing, Germany, and later in Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The E36 chassis 3-series models, including the 325i and 325is, were frequent recipients of Car and Driver's 10Best awards in the early to mid-1990s, recognizing their performance and handling.
Ratings
Overall Reputation:
The 1994 BMW 325is is widely regarded as a benchmark for sports sedan/coupe handling and driver engagement of its era.