🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Variant:

325xi

Year:

2001

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code:

M54B25

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon

Competitors 2001:

Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Lexus IS300, Infiniti G20/G35

Platform:

E46 3 Series platform, known for its excellent driving dynamics and build quality.

Drivetrain:

xDrive all-wheel-drive system, providing enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.

Engine Lineup:

Powered by the smooth and capable M54 inline-six engine.

Interior Focus:

Driver-oriented cockpit, premium materials, and excellent ergonomics.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Comprehensive repair, maintenance, and diagnostic information for the 2001 BMW 325xi.

Estimated Pages:

Extensive, likely several thousand pages when printed. Software format allows for hyperlinking and searchability, making page count less relevant than content depth.

Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely CD-ROM or downloadable file)

File Format:

Digital Software (e.g., PDF, proprietary software with search/navigation features)

Print Quality:

N/A for software, but illustrations and diagrams are typically high-resolution and clear.

Binding Type:

N/A for software.

Paper Type:

N/A for software.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery.

Engine Management:

Ignition system, fuel injection, emissions control (OBD-II diagnostics, catalytic converter, EVAP), engine control module (DME) operation and troubleshooting.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (Getrag 420G) and Automatic transmission (GM A5S360R/A5S325Z) repair, overhaul, fluid specifications, and troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

All-wheel drive (xDrive) system: transfer case operation, front and rear differential overhaul, driveshafts, CV joints, and related components.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems: struts, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings, anti-roll bars, spring replacement, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system: pump, rack and pinion, steering column, fluid types, troubleshooting, and bleeding procedures.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system: master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, brake pads and rotors replacement, ABS system diagnosis, bleeding procedures, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all circuits.

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, trunk, hood, bumpers, interior trim, glass replacement, chassis components, corrosion prevention.

Climate Control:

HVAC system: air conditioning (A/C) system servicing, refrigerant types, compressor, evaporator, heater core, blower motor, climate control modules.

Infotainment And Electronics:

Radio/audio system, navigation system, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, mirrors, keyless entry, remote functions, SRS airbag system.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, differential fluid changes.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, using diagnostic scan tools.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing major and minor components, including engine parts, transmission components, suspension parts, brake assemblies, electrical modules.

Overhauls Rebuilds:

Complete engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, differential rebuild, steering rack replacement.

Electrical Repairs:

Wiring harness repair, component testing, circuit diagnosis, module programming (where applicable, often requires specialized BMW tools).

Bodywork Cosmetics:

Minor body panel alignment, door handle replacement, mirror replacement, interior trim piece removal and installation.

Depth:

Expert-level. Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and chassis component overhauls.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

M54B25

Configuration:

2.5L DOHC 24-valve Inline-6 (M54)

Horsepower:

184 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

175 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Induction:

Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 75.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Valve Train:

Double overhead camshafts (DOHC), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual (Getrag 420G)

Type:

5-speed Automatic (GM A5S360R/A5S325Z) with Steptronic

Drivetrain System:

xDrive All-Wheel Drive system with variable torque distribution

Manual Gear Ratios:

Refer to manual for specific ratios. Typically around 4.23:1 for 1st gear.

Automatic Features:

Adaptive shift control, Steptronic manual shifting capability

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.4 inches (4506 mm) for Sedan

Width:

69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height:

56.0 inches (1422 mm) for Sedan

Wheelbase:

107.4 inches (2728 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 5.0 inches (127 mm), varies slightly with load

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3450-3550 lbs (1565-1610 kg), depending on transmission and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle placard (typically around 4500 lbs)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 11 cu ft (Sedan)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash:

4/5 Stars (Driver/Passenger) - 2001 model year testing.

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for models tested with side airbags)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) / Traction Control System (ASC+T)

AWD:

Standard xDrive All-Wheel Drive system

Airbags:

Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), optional side-impact airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners, active head restraints.

Srs System:

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) for airbags.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional BMW Professional CD radio, Harman Kardon audio system.

Navigation:

Optional MKIII or MKIV navigation system with CD-ROM maps.

Instrument Cluster:

Traditional analog gauges with onboard computer providing fuel economy, range, average speed, etc.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Phone Integration:

Optional Bluetooth preparation (hands-free calling via separate module).

Climate Control:

Standard manual climate control, optional automatic climate control.

Seats:

Standard power-adjustable front seats with driver's memory, optional sport seats.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. Refer to manual for exact CBS parameters.

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 30,000 miles or as per CBS.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended at 100,000 miles for standard plugs, or 60,000 miles for long-life plugs (e.g., iridium).

Coolant Flush:

Recommended every 4 years or 60,000 miles.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Recommended every 2 years or 30,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) synthetic oil, SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30. Check manual for precise recommendation.

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 US quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change for M54B25.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol-based)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Power Steering Fluid (P/N 83 29 0 429 576) or equivalent Pentosin CHF 11S.

Common Problems:

Cracked valve cover (plastic), VANOS solenoid failure, oil separator (CCV) failure leading to vacuum leaks, cooling system leaks (water pump, hoses, expansion tank), rear subframe bushings cracking, ABS/DSC sensor issues, front control arm bushings.

Preventative Maintenance:

Regular inspection of the valve cover, CCV system, and cooling system is recommended. Timely replacement of suspension bushings.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Philosophy:

BMW's long-standing reputation for performance, luxury, and engineering excellence ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').

E46 Introduction:

The E46 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 1998 (for the 1999 model year) in Europe and later in North America. The 325xi variant debuted in 2001.

E46 Updates:

The E46 received a significant facelift (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse) for the 2002 model year, affecting styling and some features. The 2001 model year is part of the pre-LCI phase.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily produced at BMW's plant in Dingolfing, Germany, and Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA (for certain variants).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver તિહાસ:

E46 3 Series models frequently appeared on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists in various configurations during its production run, recognized for its driving dynamics.

Safety Awards:

Received good safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA for its structural integrity.

Emissions Certification:

Certified to meet EPA emissions standards for the 2001 model year.