🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Sub Model: 325i, 325is Year: 1986 Codes Chassis Code: E30 Engine Code: M20B25 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Compact luxury sports sedan/coupe. Target Audience: Enthusiasts and owners seeking to maintain, repair, or restore their E30 325i/is. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo Milano. Key Features Vehicle Reputation: Renowned for its driving dynamics, handling, and build quality. Manual Value Proposition: Provides the detailed technical knowledge required for DIY maintenance and advanced repairs, extending the life and performance of a classic vehicle. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Full Service Repair Manual Language: English Format: Print (likely) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Extensive, likely over 800 pages 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine disassembly, assembly, rebuild, tuning, timing, valve train, lubrication, cooling. Engine Electrical: Ignition system, fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), starting system, charging system, sensors, ECU. Fuel System: Fuel tank, pump, lines, injectors, pressure regulator, EFI system. Transmission: Manual and Automatic transmission service, clutch, drive shafts, differentials. Brakes: Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), front and rear brake overhaul, parking brake. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, steering linkage. Steering: Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion. Electrical System: Wiring diagrams, lighting, instruments, power windows, mirrors, central locking, HVAC blower. Body And Frame: Body panel repair, doors, windows, locks, trim, rust prevention, undercoating. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service and repair. Procedures Included Basic Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, brake pad inspection. Intermediate Repair: Component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, fuel pump, radiator), brake caliper rebuild, CV joint replacement. Advanced Repair: Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, differential service, complex electrical diagnostics, body panel alignment. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic charts, symptom-based problem solving, common failure modes. Restoration: Guidance on refurbishing and rebuilding components for historical accuracy. Specifications: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications. Technical Depth Diagnostic Depth: Comprehensive diagnostic procedures for all major systems, including fuel injection and ignition. Rebuild Depth: Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds. Electrical Diagrams: Complete, high-quality wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: Likely PDF if digital, optimized for printing. Print Quality Print Quality: High resolution for clear diagrams and text. Binding Type Binding Type: Professional perfect binding or spiral bound for durability in a workshop environment. Paper Type Paper Type: Durable, semi-gloss paper stock to withstand workshop conditions. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, naturally aspirated Engine Code: M20B25 Displacement: 2494 cc (2.5 Liters) Performance Horsepower: 168 hp @ 5800 rpm Torque: 164 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch LE-Jetronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (91 RON minimum recommended) Ignition System Ignition Type: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based (depending on specific ECU and production date). Cooling System Cooling Type: Water-cooled, thermostatically controlled. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission Optional Transmission Type: ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch Differential: Rear-wheel drive with limited-slip differential (LSD) optional on 325i, standard on 325is. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: 2-door Sedan (E30/2), 4-door Sedan (E30/4), Convertible (E30/2C). Wheelbase: 2570 mm (101.2 in) Length: 4340 mm (170.9 in) Width: 1670 mm (65.7 in) Height: 1380 mm (54.3 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs) depending on body style and options. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Ratings: As per 1980s standards, likely performed basic frontal and side impact tests. Later models may have improvements. Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option, particularly on later 325is models. Passive Features Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear. Rollover Protection: Reinforced A-pillars and windshield frame. Convertible models feature enhanced rollover protection. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM cassette player, often with premium sound system option (e.g., Bavaria C II). Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available as an option. Connectivity Features: Basic for its era, focusing on driver feedback and mechanical connection rather than electronic wizardry. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for precise recommendations. Major Service Intervals: Timing belt replacement every 30,000-50,000 miles is critical for the M20 engine. Spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter servicing as per manual. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for specific viscosity and BMW approval if available). Coolant: 50/50 mix of BMW coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze and distilled water. Transmission Fluid Manual: API GL-4 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Transmission Fluid Automatic: Dexron III ATF (or equivalent). Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Known Issues Engine Management: MAF sensor issues, idle control valve problems, fuel injector...
Factory AM/FM cassette player, often with premium sound system option (e.g., Bavaria C II).
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available as an option.
Connectivity
Features:
Basic for its era, focusing on driver feedback and mechanical connection rather than electronic wizardry.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for precise recommendations.
Major Service Intervals:
Timing belt replacement every 30,000-50,000 miles is critical for the M20 engine. Spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter servicing as per manual.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for specific viscosity and BMW approval if available).
Coolant:
50/50 mix of BMW coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze and distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III ATF (or equivalent).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Engine Management:
MAF sensor issues, idle control valve problems, fuel injector leaks, coolant temperature sensor failure.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank brittle and prone to cracking, water pump failures, thermostat issues.
Suspension Steering:
Worn control arm bushings (especially front), tie rod ends, rear subframe mounting points can become stressed and crack.
Rust:
Common rust areas include wheel wells, rocker panels, rear valence, trunk floor, and battery tray.
Electrical:
Corroded wiring connectors, dashboard illumination issues, intermittent power to accessories.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for sporty, driver-focused vehicles, built upon decades of engineering excellence.
Model Evolution
E30 Introduction:
The E30 generation was introduced in 1982, replacing the E21. It was a significant step forward in design and engineering.
325I Introduction:
The 325i model, featuring the larger M20B25 engine, was introduced in 1985, offering increased performance over the earlier 323i and 325e models.
E30 Facelift:
The 1986 model year falls within the E30's significant facelift period, which included revised bumpers ('large bumpers' or 'late model bumpers') and other styling updates.
Production
Production Period:
The E30 generation was produced from 1982 to 1994, with the 325i/is variants primarily produced from 1985 to 1992.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (primarily Munich and Dingolfing).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
E30 Legacy:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its driving dynamics and handling, often cited as one of the best-handling BMWs of all time.
Motorsport Heritage:
The E30 platform was highly successful in various motorsport disciplines, including touring car racing (DTM).