Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to be better informed and discuss repairs knowledgeably with technicians; provides professional-level repair information.
Information Source:
Contains information equivalent to authorized dealer service department resources.
Access Method:
Instant download upon payment, no shipping costs or waiting time.
Device Compatibility:
Viewable on PC, Mac, phones, and ebook readers (e.g., Kindle).
Practical Utility:
Enables users to diagnose issues, evaluate repair approaches, and communicate effectively with mechanics.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine service and overhauling, induction, fuel system, emission control, mechanical components
Engine Management:
Control system, engine management systems analysis
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Transmission service, differentials, transmission and differentials
Chassis And Suspension:
Chassis, steering and suspension
Brakes:
Brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Electrical And Wiring:
Wiring diagrams, specific terminal pin connections, expected readings
Body And Interior:
Bodywork, interior components
Emission Control:
Emission control systems, diagnosis and repair.
Maintenance:
General service work, preventative maintenance tips
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Troubleshooting and diagnostics, diagnosing engine fault symptoms, common fixes, practical quick solutions (e.g., no-starts, hesitations, stalling)
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine overhauling, component repair procedures
Testing And Verification:
Testing suspected parts using specialized techniques, verifying wiring diagrams, testing work done after repair
Torque Settings:
Full specifications and torque settings for all major components.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, same specifications and procedures as authorized dealer service departments
Target Audience:
Owners with basic mechanical skills and independent auto service professionals
Engine Model 320I:
M20B20
Engine Displacement 320I:
2.0 Liters (1990 cc)
Engine Type 320I:
Inline-6, SOHC
Engine Model 325I:
M20B25
Engine Displacement 325I:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Engine Type 325I:
Inline-6, SOHC
Horsepower 320I Approx:
125-129 hp (depending on market and year)
Torque 320I Approx:
174-180 Nm (depending on market and year)
Horsepower 325I Approx:
168-171 hp (depending on market and year)
Torque 325I Approx:
224-226 Nm (depending on market and year)
Fuel Delivery System:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Transmission Type Standard:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Differential:
Limited Slip Differential (LSD) often optional on 325i
Safety Standards:
Built to 1980s automotive safety standards; ABS available on some models.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on later models, particularly 325i.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front seatbelt pretensioners on many models.
Driver Controls:
Driver-focused cockpit ergonomics.
Radio Options:
Factory fitted or dealer installed radios, often with cassette players.
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control on some models.
Diagnostics Port:
Early diagnostic systems were mechanical and electronic, with limited OBD-I capability on later models, but not comprehensive like modern OBD-II.
Oil Change Interval Recommendation:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first (check manual for exact specification).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval Recommendation:
Typically every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km) depending on plug type (check manual).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue antifreeze or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (check manual for specific type and capacity).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or III ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) (check manual for specific type and capacity).
Common E30 Issues:
Rust (especially in common areas), fuel distributor seal leaks (K-Jetronic), seized wiper motor, sagging headliner, OBC (On-Board Computer) failures, differential mount cracking, injector seal degradation.
Engine Specific Issues:
M20 engines can suffer from oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), coolant leaks (heater hoses, water pump), timing belt tensioner failure (preventative replacement critical).
Bmw Philosophy:
Known for sporty driving dynamics, driver engagement, and build quality.
E30 Positioning:
Second generation of the BMW 3 Series, established the benchmark for compact premium sports sedans.
Production Start Year:
1982 (for the E30 series globally)
Production End Year:
1991 (for the E30 series globally)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (various plants)