Segment:
Compact Executive Sports Sedan/Coupe
Positioning:
The 325is was positioned as a performance-oriented variant of the E30 3 Series, offering enhanced handling and a more powerful engine compared to base models.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo Milano, possibly some lower-end Porsche 944 models.
Driver Focus:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and driver-centric cockpit.
Performance Emphasis:
The 'is' designation typically indicated sportier suspension, aerodynamic enhancements (like the front air dam and rear spoiler), and often larger wheels.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul for M20 inline-6 engines.
Fuel System:
EFI system (Bosch Motronic), fuel injection, fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulation.
Ignition System:
Ignition timing, coil, distributor, spark plugs, control module.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan, coolant specifications.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust manifolds, gasket replacement.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, gearshift mechanism, fluid specifications.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP22) diagnostics, repair, fluid specifications, control systems.
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, universal joints, differential, rear axle overhaul.
Suspension Front:
Struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, alignment procedures.
Suspension Rear:
Trailing arms, shock absorbers, bushings, alignment procedures.
Steering System:
Power steering pump, rack and pinion, tie rods, fluid specifications.
Brakes Front:
Disc brake calipers, pads, rotors, bleeding procedures.
Brakes Rear:
Disc brake calipers, pads, rotors, parking brake adjustments.
ABS:
ABS system diagnostics, sensor testing, hydraulic unit.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, alternator, starter, battery, fuses, relays.
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, bulb replacement.
Body Exterior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass, seals, bumpers.
Body Interior:
Dashboard removal, seat mechanisms, trim panels, sound deadening.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system diagnostics, refrigerant, components.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks, tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common problem identification, step-by-step troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Component replacement, assembly, disassembly, adjustments.
Rebuild:
Engine, transmission, and differential overhaul procedures.
Diagnostics:
Electrical system diagnostics, engine performance testing, fuel system testing.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, clearances, measurements.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostics Level:
Advanced, including electrical troubleshooting and system-specific diagnostics.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on driving conditions and oil used).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 40,000-60,000 miles or 5 years (critical for M20 engines; failure causes catastrophic damage).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH, SAE 10W-40 or 5W-40 (check owner's manual for precise specification).
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue or G48 (ethylene glycol based) coolant mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check manual).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III/Mercon (check manual for exact specification).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II/III or specific BMW fluid (check manual).
Engine Mounts:
Wear and tear leading to vibration and clunking.
Hose Degradation:
Coolant hoses, vacuum hoses, and fuel lines can become brittle and crack with age.
Bimmer Window Regulators:
Common failure point for window regulators.
Rear Subframe Mounts:
Can crack or detach, leading to poor handling and noise.
Heater Core:
Can leak, causing a sweet smell in the cabin and fogging windows.
Dashboard Cracking:
UV exposure can cause dashboard vinyl to crack.
