Segment:
Entry-level luxury compact executive sedan/coupe
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Acura TL
Brand Focus:
Driving dynamics, build quality, luxury appointments, performance
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emission control, engine diagnostics
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission (manual & automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differential, axles
Suspension Steering:
Front & rear suspension, steering system, power steering
Braking Systems:
Brake system hydraulics, ABS, parking brake, brake component replacement
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, power windows, climate control, instrument cluster, ECU diagnostics
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, interior trim, chassis components, collision repair basics
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, belt and hose inspection/replacement
Repair Procedures:
Component removal & installation, rebuild procedures, troubleshooting guides
Diagnostic Procedures:
Fault finding, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, actuator testing
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic DIY maintenance to complex mechanical and electrical repairs, including rebuilds.
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
Horsepower Hp:
225 hp @ 5900 rpm
Torque Lb-Ft:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME9.2)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Valve Train:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Engine Oil Capacity Quarts:
6.9 quarts (with filter)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 0W-30 (BMW LL-01 approved)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag GS5-39DZ)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-Speed Steptronic Automatic (GM A5S360R/GA5HP19Z)
Automatic Features:
Sequential shift mode (Steptronic)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Red Line MTL)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III/VI depending on specific transmission variant)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
★★★★★ (5-Star)
IIHS Front Crash Rating:
Good
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T)
Braking Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side airbags, optional head protection airbags
Seat Belts:
Pretensioning front seat belts, rear 3-point seat belts
Oil Change Interval Miles Km:
15,000 miles / 24,000 km or 12 months (using BMW LL-01 oil), or as indicated by Condition Based Service (CBS)
Air Filter Replacement Miles Km:
30,000 - 60,000 miles / 48,000 - 96,000 km (variable)
Spark Plug Replacement Miles Km:
60,000 - 100,000 miles / 96,000 - 160,000 km (depending on spark plug type)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 type)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (BMW recommends Brake Fluid DOT 4)
Common Issues List:
Oil filter housing gasket leaks, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failures, coolant expansion tank cracks, VANOS solenoid issues, VANOS oil line failures, power steering hose leaks, rear subframe bushings failure, window regulator failures, ignition coil failures.
Ccv System Maintenance:
Crucial to check and replace the CCV valve and associated hoses to prevent oil consumption and vacuum leaks.
Brand Origin:
Germany, founded 1916
Brand Reputation:
Known for performance, luxury, engineering precision ('The Ultimate Driving Machine')
E46 Generation Years:
1998-2006
325I Positioning:
Replaced the 323i, offering a more potent inline-6 engine.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany, South Africa, USA
