🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 325i Year: 1990 Codes Chassis Code: E30 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: BMW E30 enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, restoration specialists. Competitive Analysis Value Proposition: Provides comprehensive, OEM-level information for maintaining and repairing a classic BMW model, saving significant costs compared to dealer service. Key Features Completeness: Covers all major mechanical, electrical, and body systems, making it a definitive resource for the 1990 325i. Diagnostic Focus: Emphasizes diagnostic procedures to help identify and resolve issues efficiently. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Full Service & Repair Manual Language: English Format: Digital (likely PDF, though not explicitly stated, common for such manuals) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 500+ 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine overhaul, cylinder head, crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery. Engine Management: Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, engine control unit (ECU), sensors (MAP, TPS, O2, coolant temp), emissions control. Transmission Manual: Clutch operation, gearbox overhaul, shift linkage, transmission fluid specifications and replacement. Transmission Automatic: Automatic transmission operation, fluid replacement, control systems, torque converter service. Drivetrain: Driveshafts, constant velocity (CV) joints, differential, rear axle assembly, wheel bearings. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components (struts, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings), alignment specifications, coil springs. Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, steering angle sensor (if applicable). Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (discs, calipers, pads), hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and troubleshooting, parking brake. Electrical System: Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams for all circuits, fuses, relays, lighting systems, horn. Body And Chassis: Body panel repair, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, chassis structural components, rust prevention and repair. HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, heater core. Interior: Seats, dashboard, instrument cluster, door panels, headliner, carpeting, seat belts, airbags (if equipped). Diagnostics: Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), common fault symptoms and remedies. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, drive belt inspection/replacement. Major Repairs: Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, radiator replacement. Electrical Troubleshooting: Diagnosing electrical faults using wiring diagrams, testing components, tracing circuits. Fuel System Service: Fuel injector cleaning/replacement, fuel pump testing, fuel filter replacement, fuel pressure testing. Cooling System Service: Thermostat replacement, water pump replacement, radiator and hose inspection/replacement. Diagnostic Procedures: Step-by-step guides for diagnosing specific issues based on symptoms. Technical Depth Diagnostic Level: Advanced diagnostics, including sensor readings, ECU functions, and troubleshooting common electronic faults. Rebuild Scope: Comprehensive engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences. Wiring Diagrams: Detailed, often color-coded, wiring schematics for all vehicle electrical systems. Special Tools: Identification and use of specialized BMW tools required for specific repair procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF (assumed) Searchability: Likely text-searchable (if properly created PDF) Print Quality Resolution: High-resolution images and diagrams (typical for professional manuals) Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital format) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M20B25 Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) Displacement: 2.5 Liters (2494 cc) Performance Horsepower: 168 hp @ 5800 rpm (approximate) Torque: 164 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (approximate) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch Motronic M2.7 Fuel Injection Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane) Maintenance Timing Belt Interval: Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 3-5 years (critical maintenance item) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: Getrag 260 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type: ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch Fluid Specs Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW approved manual transmission fluid (e.g., ATF Dexron II or equivalent) Automatic Transmission Fluid: BMW ATF Dexron II or III (check specific VIN for exact requirement) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 101.2 inches (2570 mm) Length: 170.5 inches (4330 mm) Width: 67.1 inches (1704 mm) Height: 54.7 inches (1390 mm) Weights Curb Weight: 2975 lbs (1350 kg) (approximate, manual transmission) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 4100 lbs (1860 kg) (approximate) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Not rated for this era by modern standards Passive Features Seat Belts: 3-point inertia-reel seat belts with front pretensioners Airbags: Driver-side airbag standard for 1990 model year in US market. Body Structure: Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones front and rear. Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on 325i models. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: Factory AM/FM Cassette player with optional CD changer. Speakers: Multiple speaker locations, often including door and rear deck speakers. Driver Assistance ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels. Connectivity Early Electronics: Basic onboard computer (check control system), electronic fuel injection and ignition control. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (synthetic oil recommended) Spark Plug Replacement: Every...
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 3-5 years (critical maintenance item)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
Getrag 260 5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Transmission Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission
Features
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Fluid Specs
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW approved manual transmission fluid (e.g., ATF Dexron II or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF Dexron II or III (check specific VIN for exact requirement)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
101.2 inches (2570 mm)
Length:
170.5 inches (4330 mm)
Width:
67.1 inches (1704 mm)
Height:
54.7 inches (1390 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
2975 lbs (1350 kg) (approximate, manual transmission)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
4100 lbs (1860 kg) (approximate)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not rated for this era by modern standards
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with front pretensioners
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard for 1990 model year in US market.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones front and rear.
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on 325i models.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit:
Factory AM/FM Cassette player with optional CD changer.
Speakers:
Multiple speaker locations, often including door and rear deck speakers.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.
Connectivity
Early Electronics:
Basic onboard computer (check control system), electronic fuel injection and ignition control.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (synthetic oil recommended)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 or 10W-50 (synthetic recommended, API SG or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.8 Quarts (5.5 Liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4
Known Issues
Common Problems Engine:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), coolant leaks (water pump, thermostat housing), head gasket failure (especially if overheated), timing belt failure (catastrophic engine damage if it breaks).
Common Problems Electrical:
Cracked dashboard (vinyl degradation), failing instrument cluster voltage regulator, faulty door lock actuators, corroded grounds.
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings (causing steering wander), worn rear shock mounts, subframe cracking (rear subframe mounting points).
Sheer Driving Pleasure – focus on sporty handling, responsive engines, and driver engagement.
Model Evolution
E30 Generation:
The E30 chassis, produced from 1982-1991, is renowned for its balanced chassis and durable engineering. The 325i was a popular and performance-oriented variant.
1990 Updates:
Minor cosmetic updates and increased standard equipment, including the driver's side airbag.
Production
Production Years E30:
1982-1991
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (primarily Dingolfing)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Modern Classic Status:
Widely recognized as a modern classic and one of BMW's most iconic models, praised for its driving dynamics and timeless design.
Ratings
Enthusiast Appreciation:
Consistently ranks high in 'best driver's cars' lists for its era.