🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

325i

Year:

1988

Market Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible

Chassis Code:

E30

Engine Code:

M20B25

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW 325i (E30) represented the pinnacle of compact executive sports sedans in its era, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and driving dynamics.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, and high-end Japanese sedans of the late 1980s.

Driver Focus:

Renowned for its driver-centric cockpit, balanced chassis, and engaging driving experience.

Build Quality:

Exemplified BMW's reputation for robust engineering and high-quality materials.

Value Proposition:

An essential resource for owners and independent mechanics to maintain and repair this classic BMW, ensuring its longevity and performance.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Printed (based on description, often distributed as physical books)

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 500-800 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete overhaul, diagnosis, tuning, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system

Transmission:

Manual (Getrag 260) and Automatic (ZF 4HP22) transmission repair, diagnosis, fluid specifications, and removal/installation

Drivetrain:

Clutch, driveshaft, differential, rear axle assembly repair and maintenance

Suspension:

Front struts, rear semi-trailing arms, bushings, shock absorbers, springs, wheel bearing replacement, alignment specifications

Brakes:

Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair, brake fluid specifications, caliper and master cylinder overhaul

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis, pump and rack repair, steering column adjustment

Electrical System:

Full wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, component testing, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, horn, wipers

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, fuel filter replacement, Bosch LE-Jetronic or Motronic

Body And Trim:

Exterior panel alignment, door and window mechanisms, interior trim removal/installation, convertible top mechanisms (if applicable)

Heating And Air Conditioning:

HVAC system components, refrigerant handling (R12), blower motor, evaporator, heater core

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic codes (if applicable for the era), component testing procedures

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement, system overhauls, and adjustments

Rebuilds:

Engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including torque specifications and clearances

Alignment:

Wheel alignment specifications (camber, caster, toe) and procedures

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Notes:

If digital (PDF), expect searchable text, high-resolution diagrams, and bookmarks for easy navigation.

Print Quality Notes:

Professional print quality with clear, legible diagrams and text. High-grade paper for durability.

Binding Type Notes:

Likely a sturdy binding (e.g., perfect binding or spiral bound) suitable for workshop use.

Paper Type Notes:

Durable, possibly coated paper to withstand grease and handling in a workshop environment.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 75.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Horsepower:

168 hp @ 5800 rpm (DIN)

Torque:

167 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (DIN)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection and ignition system

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium gasoline (91 octane or higher)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission

Transmission Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

Gear Ratios Manual:

1st: 4.01, 2nd: 2.14, 3rd: 1.31, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.81, Reverse: 3.74

Transmission Fluid Manual:

BMW Manual Transmission Fluid (e.g., ATF Dexron II or equivalent, check specific manual for exact spec)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ZF TE-ML 11A/11B or equivalent ATF (e.g., Dexron III)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 170.5 inches (4331 mm)

Width:

Approx. 65.7 inches (1669 mm)

Height:

Approx. 54.7 inches (1390 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 101.2 inches (2570 mm)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm

Tire Size Standard:

195/60HR14 (often)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2900-3100 lbs (1315-1406 kg), varies by body style and options

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings Era:

NHTSA ratings from this period are less standardized than modern ones, but E30 generally performed well for its class and time.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Not commonly available on 1988 325i

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag was optional and becoming available around this model year, not standard.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel front seatbelts, rear lap belts (later models and some markets had rear 3-point belts).

Structural Integrity:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones, side-impact protection beams in doors.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory premium audio system, often with cassette player and basic radio tuner. Speaker upgrades and modern head unit replacements are common modifications.

Display:

Minimal digital displays, primarily analog gauges. OBC (On-Board Computer) optional on some models.

Cruise Control:

Optional electronic cruise control

Parking Assistance:

None (rear park sensors and cameras not available)

Phone Integration:

None (aftermarket Bluetooth adapters are common)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first (check owner's manual).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 30,000 miles (48,000 km), depending on spark plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km)

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial! Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or 4-5 years. Failure causes catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 synthetic or synthetic blend API SG or higher (check manual for precise spec).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual, DOT 4 preferred for modern use)

Common Issues:

Cooling system leaks (hoses, water pump, plastic expansion tank), fuel distributor leaks, idle control valve issues, sunroof drain blockage, fuel pump failure, rear shock mount cracking, cracked dashboard, window regulator failure.

Timing Belt Maintenance:

Critical to replace at recommended intervals due to interference engine design. Many original belts are long past their service life.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW's legacy of performance, luxury, and engineering excellence established throughout the 20th century.

E30 Generation:

The E30 platform, launched in 1982, represented a significant evolution for the 3 Series, introducing MacPherson struts up front and semi-trailing arms in the rear for improved handling.

325I Introduction:

The 325i variant, featuring the M20 'Super eta' engine, debuted in 1987 as a replacement for the 325e, offering a sportier performance profile.

Production Years:

E30: 1982-1994 (sedan/coupe), 1987-1991 (convertible). The 325i specifically was produced from 1987 onwards.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), with some production in South Africa and other locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism Acclaim:

Consistently praised by automotive press for its handling, performance, and build quality. Named to Car and Driver's 'Ten Best' list multiple times.

Cult Status:

Achieved significant cult status among car enthusiasts for its timeless design, engaging driving experience, and relative robustness.

Epa Fuel Economy Estimated:

Approximately 17-18 MPG city / 23-25 MPG highway (Varies by transmission and driving conditions)