🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 325i Year: 2003 Codes Chassis Code: E46 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Entry-level luxury compact executive sedan/coupe Competitive Analysis Competitors: Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Acura TL Key Features Brand Focus: Driving dynamics, build quality, luxury appointments, performance 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Full Service & Repair Manual Language: English Format: Digital (likely PDF) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1000+ 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Engine mechanicals, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emission control, engine diagnostics Drivetrain Systems: Transmission (manual & automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differential, axles Suspension Steering: Front & rear suspension, steering system, power steering Braking Systems: Brake system hydraulics, ABS, parking brake, brake component replacement Electrical Systems: Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, power windows, climate control, instrument cluster, ECU diagnostics Body Chassis: Body panels, doors, interior trim, chassis components, collision repair basics Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, belt and hose inspection/replacement Repair Procedures: Component removal & installation, rebuild procedures, troubleshooting guides Diagnostic Procedures: Fault finding, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, actuator testing Technical Depth Depth Level: Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic DIY maintenance to complex mechanical and electrical repairs, including rebuilds. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF (searchable text, printable pages) Print Quality Quality: High-resolution diagrams, clear text, printable Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M54B30 Engine Type: Inline-6 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated Displacement: 2979 cc (3.0 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 89.6 mm Compression Ratio: 10.2:1 Performance Horsepower Hp: 225 hp @ 5900 rpm Torque Lb-Ft: 214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME9.2) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane) Other Valve Train: Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) Engine Oil Capacity Quarts: 6.9 quarts (with filter) Recommended Oil Viscosity: SAE 0W-30 (BMW LL-01 approved) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual (Getrag GS5-39DZ) Optional Transmission Type Optional: 5-Speed Steptronic Automatic (GM A5S360R/GA5HP19Z) Features Automatic Features: Sequential shift mode (Steptronic) Fluid Spec Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Red Line MTL) Automatic Transmission Fluid: BMW ATF LT-3 or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III/VI depending on specific transmission variant) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Inches: 107.4 inches Length Inches: 177.4 inches Width Inches: 68.7 inches Height Inches: 55.4 inches Weights Curb Weight Lbs: 3350 - 3450 lbs (approx.) Cargo Trunk Capacity Cubic Feet: 11.1 cubic feet Other Wheel Bolt Pattern: 5x120 mm Recommended Tire Size Front: 205/55R16 or 225/45R17 Recommended Tire Size Rear: 205/55R16 or 245/40R17 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Crash Rating: ★★★★★ (5-Star) IIHS Front Crash Rating: Good Active Features Stability Control: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Traction Control: Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T) Braking Features: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags, side airbags, optional head protection airbags Seat Belts: Pretensioning front seat belts, rear 3-point seat belts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: BMW Business CD or Professional CD/Cassette with optional Hi-Fi or Logic 7 audio upgrades. Navigation: Optional BMW Professional Navigation system (MKIV unit with CD-ROM map updates) Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control Connectivity Phone Integration: Optional Bluetooth hands-free system with cradle. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval Miles Km: 15,000 miles / 24,000 km or 12 months (using BMW LL-01 oil), or as indicated by Condition Based Service (CBS) Air Filter Replacement Miles Km: 30,000 - 60,000 miles / 48,000 - 96,000 km (variable) Spark Plug Replacement Miles Km: 60,000 - 100,000 miles / 96,000 - 160,000 km (depending on spark plug type) Fluid Specifications Coolant Type: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 type) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 4 (BMW recommends Brake Fluid DOT 4) Known Issues Common Issues List: Oil filter housing gasket leaks, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failures, coolant expansion tank cracks, VANOS solenoid issues, VANOS oil line failures, power steering hose leaks, rear subframe bushings failure, window regulator failures, ignition coil failures. Specific Tasks Ccv System Maintenance: Crucial to check and replace the CCV valve and associated hoses to prevent oil consumption and vacuum leaks. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Brand Origin: Germany, founded 1916 Brand Reputation: Known for performance, luxury, engineering precision ('The Ultimate Driving Machine') Model Evolution E46 Generation Years: 1998-2006 325I Positioning: Replaced the 323i, offering a more potent inline-6 engine. Production Manufacturing Locations: Germany, South Africa, USA 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Car And Driver Best 10: The E46 generation (including 325i variants) was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list. Ratings Overall Reliability Perception: Generally good, but requires diligent maintenance. Known for specific common failure points detailed in known_issues.