🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 325xi Year: 2002 Codes Chassis Code: E46 Chassis Generation: Third Generation (E46) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Premium compact executive sedan, known for its sporty handling, refined interior, and advanced technology. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC, Lexus IS300. Key Features Distinctive Features: xDrive all-wheel-drive system, balanced chassis, driver-focused cockpit, premium interior materials. Licensing Licensing: Officially Licensed Product 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: 2002 BMW 325xi Related Models Coverage: May include relevant information for other E46 3 Series variants with similar powertrains (e.g., 325i, 330xi). Page Count Estimated Pages: Varies significantly by software publisher; typically hundreds to over a thousand pages for comprehensive software. Manual Type Type: Official Service and Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Software (likely executable program or PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (automatic and manual), drivetrain (including xDrive AWD system). Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (ABS, DSC), wheels, tires. Electrical: Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, locks, mirrors, climate control, audio system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, DME (Digital Motor Electronics), EWS (Electronic Immobilizer System). Body And Interior: Body panels, doors, interior trim, seats, airbags, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning). Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic tool usage, reading and clearing fault codes. Repair And Overhaul: Engine component removal and installation (e.g., cylinder head, pistons), transmission repair, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair. Technical Data: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic parameters. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive. Covers basic maintenance through complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical system schematics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: Proprietary software application or PDF. Searchability: Typically searchable text (if PDF) or indexed database (if application). Print Quality Printability: Designed for digital viewing; printing may be possible depending on software or PDF capabilities, but not its primary format. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Software) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Software) ⚙️ 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 Valve Train: Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves (4 per cylinder), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) on intake and exhaust camshafts. Performance Horsepower: 225 hp @ 5900 rpm Torque: 214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), Bosch Motronic DME. Recommended Fuel: Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission Optional Type: 6-speed Manual Transmission (Less common for the 325xi in North America) Features Drivetrain Type: xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Electronic Transfer Case. Automatic Features: Steptronic manual shift mode. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 177.4 inches (4506 mm) Width: 68.7 inches (1745 mm) Height: 55.7 inches (1415 mm) Wheelbase: 107.1 inches (2720 mm) Front Track: 58.7 inches (1491 mm) Rear Track: 59.0 inches (1499 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3500 - 3600 lbs (1588 - 1633 kg), varies by equipment. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approximately 4475 lbs (2030 kg) Cargo Trunk Volume: 11.7 cubic feet (331 liters) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver: 5-Star NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger: 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: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist. Passive Features Airbags: Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (HPS). Seatbelts: Pretensioners and force limiters for front seats. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD, or optional CD/Navigation system. Audio System: Standard HiFi system, optional Harman Kardon sound system. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control. Parking Sensors: Optional rear Park Distance Control (PDC). Connectivity Telematics: Optional BMW Assist telematics system (may be phased out due to cellular network changes). Comfort Features Climate Control: Manual climate control or optional Automatic Climate Control. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system; typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. Consult manual for specific CBS reset procedures. Air Filter Replacement: Recommended every 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions. Cabin Filter Replacement: Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually. Spark Plug Replacement: Recommended at 100,000 miles (for platinum or iridium plugs). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 is commonly recommended. Check manual for specific viscosity based on climate. Coolant: BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based), typically blue or purple. Mix 50/50 with distilled water. Transmission Fluid Automatic: BMW ATF LT-3 (LF-3)...
Comprehensive. Covers basic maintenance through complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical system schematics.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
Proprietary software application or PDF.
Searchability:
Typically searchable text (if PDF) or indexed database (if application).
Print Quality
Printability:
Designed for digital viewing; printing may be possible depending on software or PDF capabilities, but not its primary format.
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Software)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Software)
⚙️ 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
Valve Train:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves (4 per cylinder), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) on intake and exhaust camshafts.
Regularly check for oil leaks, service the cooling system proactively, replace PCV system components as preventative maintenance, clean VANOS solenoids periodically.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, is a German luxury vehicle and motorcycle manufacturer founded in 1916, renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan and emphasis on performance and engineering.
Model Evolution
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series (1998-2006) represented a significant evolution from its E36 predecessor, focusing on improved chassis dynamics, interior refinement, and advanced technology. The 'xi' designation signifies BMW's all-wheel-drive system.
Production
Production Years:
The E46 325xi was produced from 2001 to 2005 model years.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced at BMW's Munich plant, Germany, and Dingolfing plant, Germany.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver:
Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during the E46 generation's run.
Ratings
Safety Ratings General:
Consistently received good safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS for its era.