Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional workshops specializing in BMWs
Competitors 1990:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 90, Acura Legend, Lexus ES250
Vehicle Selling Points:
Sporty handling, refined engine, build quality, iconic design
Value:
Enables owners and technicians to perform accurate diagnostics, maintenance, and repairs, maximizing the lifespan and performance of the vehicle.
Primary Coverage:
Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Overhaul
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Type:
Workshop Manual / Service Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, searchable)
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Hydraulic & Parking), Drivetrain (Driveshafts, Differential)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Engine Control Unit (ECU)
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC System, Interior Trim, Safety Systems (Seatbelts, Airbags - if applicable for '90 models)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Tune-ups
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Overhaul Procedures, Component Reassembly
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnosis, Fault Code Interpretation (OBD-I)
Specifications:
Torque Values, Clearances, Alignment Settings, Electrical Resistances
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, intermediate repairs, and major overhauls, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Engine Type:
Inline-6 Cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
2494 cc (2.5 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84 mm x 75 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 or 9.7:1 (depending on market/variant)
Horsepower Hp:
168 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)
Torque Lb-Ft:
164 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91 or higher recommended)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition with Knock Sensor
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48, or equivalent ethylene glycol with corrosion inhibitors)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters
Oil Type:
SAE 15W-40 or 15W-50 (check owner's manual for specific recommendations based on climate)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.25 Liters (with filter)
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter W940/1, Bosch 3323
Type:
Getrag 260 5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Manual Gear Ratios Example:
1st: 4.01, 2nd: 2.19, 3rd: 1.42, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.81, Reverse: 3.75
Automatic Features:
Lock-up torque converter, electronic control (ECU)
Manual Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron III (or equivalent, e.g., Pentosin ATF-1)
Automatic Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron III (or equivalent)
Length:
Approx. 4415 mm (173.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 1675 mm (65.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs) depending on transmission and options
Standard Wheel Size:
15-inch alloy wheels
Standard Tire Size:
205/60VR15
NHTSA Ratings:
Not explicitly rated under modern NHTSA standards for this era, but E30 models were known for robust construction.
Braking System:
Front: Ventilated Discs, Rear: Solid Discs
ABS:
Optional (Anti-lock Braking System)
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag was becoming available on newer E30 models, may be present on late '90 production.
Structural Reinforcement:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM Cassette Player with optional CD changer interface.
Onboard Computer:
Optional BMW On-Board Computer (OBC) displaying fuel economy, range, and diagnostics.
Connectivity Features:
None (pre-dates modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity).
Oil Change:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, or longer for platinum/iridium types if retrofitted.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron III (or Pentosin CHF 11S - verify specific system)
Engine Related:
Oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets, fuel distributor issues (Bosch CIS-E), timing belt degradation (if applicable to later M20 variants, though typically chain driven), idle control valve issues.
Chassis Related:
Subframe mounting point rust, trailing arm bushings, shock mount failure, heater core leaks.
Electrical Related:
Dashboard illumination issues, failing OBC (On-Board Computer) displays, fuel pump relay failure.
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, emphasizing performance, engineering, and driver engagement.
E30 Generation Overview:
The E30 chassis, produced from 1982-1994, is one of BMW's most iconic generations, evolving from the utilitarian 3-Series to include highly desirable performance variants like the M3.
325I Positioning:
The 325i represented the pinnacle of the standard E30 line-up, offering a potent straight-six engine and a balanced chassis that cemented its reputation.
Production Years:
E30 Series: 1982-1994. 325i models generally from 1987-1992.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also assembly plants in South Africa and other countries.
