🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Variant:

325, 325e, 325es

Year:

1989

Chassis Code:

E30

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW 3 Series (E30) of this era was a benchmark in the compact luxury sports sedan segment, known for its superior driving dynamics, build quality, and engaging performance.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, and certain American luxury sedans of the late 1980s.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive layout, and responsive steering, offering a true driver's car experience.

Reliability:

Generally considered robust and well-engineered, though specific maintenance is crucial for longevity.

Value Proposition:

This manual is essential for owners and mechanics looking to maintain, repair, or restore their E30 325 models, providing the technical data needed for DIY projects and professional service.

📋 Manual Details

Engine:

Yes

Transmission:

Yes

Suspension:

Yes

Brakes:

Yes

Electrical System:

Yes

Fuel System:

Yes

Cooling System:

Yes

Exhaust System:

Yes

Steering:

Yes

Body And Frame:

Yes

Interior:

Yes

HVAC:

Yes

Troubleshooting:

Yes

Maintenance:

Yes

Diagnostics:

Yes

Rebuilds:

Yes

Restoration:

Yes

Approximate Pages:

1500+

Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshaft, timing belt/chain, oil pump, lubrication system.

Engine Management:

Bosch Motronic system, fuel injection, ignition system, sensors (e.g., crankshaft position, camshaft position, throttle position, manifold absolute pressure), actuators, emissions control systems (e.g., EGR, O2 sensors).

Transmission Manual:

Gearbox overhaul, clutch replacement, shifting mechanisms, gear ratios, fluid specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Overhaul, torque converter, valve body, hydraulic control, fluid specifications, shift control.

Suspension Front:

MacPherson struts, control arms, bushings, ball joints, sway bar, steering knuckles, wheel bearings.

Suspension Rear:

Trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, differential mounting, driveshafts, CV joints.

Brakes Front:

Disc brake caliper overhaul, rotor replacement, brake pad replacement, brake lines, ABS system components (if applicable).

Brakes Rear:

Disc brake caliper overhaul, rotor replacement, brake pad replacement, parking brake mechanism, brake lines, ABS system components (if applicable).

Steering:

Steering rack and pinion, power steering pump, steering fluid, tie rods, steering column.

Electrical Engine:

Wiring diagrams, starter motor, alternator, battery, fuses, relays, ignition coil, spark plug wires.

Electrical Body:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, power windows, power locks, wipers, horn, dashboard instruments, central locking system.

HVAC:

Blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant system, heater core, climate control panels.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel pressure regulator, fuel injectors.

Cooling System:

Radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant hoses, expansion tank, cooling fan.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter change, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, brake inspection, tire rotation.

Component Removal Installation:

Step-by-step guides for removing and reinstalling major components such as engine, transmission, suspension parts, brake calipers, etc.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, including symptom-based troubleshooting and component testing.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including torque specifications and clearances.

Transmission Overhaul:

Comprehensive steps for disassembling, inspecting, and reassembling both manual and automatic transmissions.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Utilizing wiring diagrams to diagnose and repair electrical faults, including testing of sensors, actuators, and control modules.

Body Repair:

Procedures for minor body panel repair, door adjustments, trim removal and installation.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution, searchable PDF with clear text and legible diagrams.

Quality:

Designed for clear printing, with professional layout and easy-to-read fonts and diagrams.

Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M20B27 (for 325e/es)

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Displacement:

2.7 Liters (2693 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 81.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1 (for 325e), 9.4:1 (for 325es)

Horsepower 325E:

121 hp @ 4800 rpm

Torque 325E:

170 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm

Horsepower 325Es:

168 hp @ 5800 rpm (with revised cam and ECU tuning)

Torque 325Es:

164 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Injection System:

Bosch Motronic ML-Jetronic (325e), Bosch Motronic M1.3 (325es)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Recommended Octane:

91 AKI (87 Octane may be acceptable for 325e with potential power reduction)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission (standard on 325es and optional on 325e)

Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission (optional on 325e)

Clutch:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

Differential:

Open differential (standard), optional Limited Slip Differential (LSD) available on some models.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

170.5 inches (4330 mm)

Width:

67.3 inches (1710 mm)

Height:

54.7 inches (1390 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.7 inches (2660 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2900-3100 lbs (1315-1406 kg) depending on transmission and options

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Not extensively rated by modern NHTSA standards; however, E30 models were known for robust construction for their era.

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia reel seat belts front and rear

Head Restraints:

Front and rear head restraints

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional on some models and standard on higher trims/later production.

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

Factory equipped with AM/FM radio and cassette player, often with optional amplifier systems.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system

No Modern Connectivity:

No modern connectivity features such as Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration typical of contemporary vehicles.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually. Check manual for specific recommendations.

Air Filter:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)

Spark Plugs:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)

Timing Belt:

Every 50,000-60,000 miles (80,000-96,000 km) or 5 years. Critical to replace to prevent catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil:

SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 API SG or higher. Consult manual for specific viscosity and quality requirements. Capacity: Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant. 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity: Approx. 7.5 liters (7.9 US quarts).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron III or equivalent.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF Dexron II or Dexron III (check specific manual). Capacity: Approx. 3.5 liters (3.7 US quarts) for refill.

Differential Fluid:

API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (SAE 80W-90 GL-5 for limited slip differentials).

Cooling System:

Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Water pump seals and thermostat housings can leak.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump failures, clogged fuel injectors, deteriorating fuel lines.

Electrical:

Corrosion in fuse box, failing alternator voltage regulators, brittle wiring insulation leading to shorts. Motronic ECU issues can occur.

Suspension:

Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends. Rear trailing arm bushings are a common wear item.

Engine:

Head gasket leaks (especially on higher mileage examples), oil pan gasket leaks, valve stem seal wear leading to oil consumption.

Exhaust:

Rusting exhaust manifolds and pipes are common, especially in corrosive climates.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused vehicles with excellent engineering and sporty handling.

E30 Generation:

The E30 generation (1982-1994) is considered a highly successful and iconic series for BMW, defining the modern compact executive car.

325E Introduction:

The 'e' model ('eta' for efficiency) was introduced to offer better fuel economy with a torque-biased engine, targeting a broader market.

325Es Introduction:

The 'es' ('eta sport') model offered a sportier interpretation with increased horsepower and often sport suspension, bridging the gap to the more powerful 325i.

Production Years:

E30 Series: 1982-1994 (325e/es primarily 1987-1991 in North America)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver:

The E30 3 Series regularly appeared on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists during its production run, lauded for its driving prowess.