🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 325i Year: 1996 Chassis Code: E36 Codes Engine Code Primary: M50B25TU 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Class: Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible. Competitors 1996: Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus ES 300, Infiniti G20. Competitive Analysis Key Selling Points: Rear-wheel drive dynamics, refined inline-six engine, build quality, sporty handling, driver-focused interior. Key Features Platform Name: E36 Body Styles Available: Sedan (4-door), Coupe (2-door), Convertible (2-door), Touring (Wagon - less common in US). 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Factory Service Repair Manual Language: English Format: PDF Download Page Count Estimated Pages: Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided, but comprehensive) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete overhaul, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing chain, lubrication system, cooling system. Engine Electrical: Engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, ignition system, fuel injection system (DME), sensors, actuators, wiring diagrams. Transmission Manual: Clutch, gearbox assembly, shift linkage, internal components, servicing, repair. Transmission Automatic: Gearbox assembly, hydraulic control system, electronic control unit (TCU), torque converter, servicing, repair. Drivetrain: Driveshafts, CV joints, differential, rear axle assembly, servicing, repair. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel bearings, alignment procedures. Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, tie rods, fluid specifications, bleeding procedures. Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (discs), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), hydraulic components, bleeding procedures, pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul. Electrical System: Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting, wipers, horn, power accessories, fuses, relays, complete wiring diagrams. Climate Control: HVAC system, air conditioning (A/C) system, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant handling, diagnostics. Body And Frame: Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, interior trim, chassis structure, rust prevention and repair. Safety Systems: Airbag system (SRS) diagnostics and replacement procedures, seat belts. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, brake fluid flush, coolant flush. Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting charts. Major Repairs: Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system overhauls, electrical system diagnostics and repair. Component Replacement: Detailed instructions for replacing virtually every major and minor component of the vehicle. Torque Specifications: Accurate torque values for all critical fasteners. Diagnostic Procedures: Step-by-step guidance for diagnosing electrical and mechanical issues, including use of diagnostic tools. Technical Depth Depth Level: Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repair. Diagnostic Tools: Information implicitly supports the use of BMW's proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1) and general automotive diagnostic equipment. Special Tools: Details required special tools for specific procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF Print Quality Readability: High resolution, allowing for clear printing of text and diagrams. Binding Type Digital Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Digital Paper Simulation: Simulated, with page breaks and layout consistent with a printed manual. Searchability Text Search: Likely searchable text within the PDF for quick topic retrieval. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder Engine Code: M50B25TU (Technical Update) Displacement: 2.5 Liters (2494 cc) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 75.0 mm Performance Horsepower: 189 hp @ 5900 rpm Torque: 181 lb-ft (245 Nm) @ 4200 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic M5.2) Fuel Type: Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended) Engine Management ECU: Bosch Motronic M5.2 Cooling System Coolant Type: BMW Blue Antifreeze (or equivalent silicate-free G48 type) Lubrication System Oil Capacity: 6.5 Liters (with filter) Recommended Oil Viscosity: SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (Synthetic recommended) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/5) Optional Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22 EH) Features Manual Gear Ratios: 1st: 4.23:1, 2nd: 2.52:1, 3rd: 1.67:1, 4th: 1.24:1, 5th: 1.00:1, Reverse: 3.71:1 Automatic Gear Ratios: 1st: 2.48:1, 2nd: 1.48:1, 3rd: 1.00:1, 4th: 0.71:1 Fluid Specs Manual Transmission Fluid: MTF LT-2 (or equivalent API GL-4 75W-90) Automatic Transmission Fluid: ATF LT 71141 (or equivalent Dexron III) Fluid Capacity Manual Transmission Capacity: 1.5 Liters Automatic Transmission Capacity: 8.0 Liters (total fill) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Sedan: 174.5 in (4432 mm), Coupe: 171.7 in (4361 mm) Width: 69.1 in (1755 mm) Height: Sedan: 55.4 in (1407 mm), Coupe: 53.6 in (1361 mm) Wheelbase: Sedan: 106.0 in (2690 mm), Coupe: 104.7 in (2659 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3200-3400 lbs (1450-1540 kg) depending on body style and equipment. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 4200 lbs (1905 kg) Cargo Trunk Volume: Approx. 15.0 cu ft (425 L) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Crash Test Ratings: Driver Front: 4-Star, Passenger Front: 4-Star (results may vary slightly by year/configuration, but generally strong for the era). Active Features ABS: Standard (Anti-lock Braking System) Traction Control: Optional (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control and Traction) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and...