Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Acura Legend, Infiniti M30.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and engaging driving experience.
Performance Focus:
The 325is offered sportier suspension and aerodynamic enhancements over the 325i.
Engine:
M20B25 Engine (2.5L Inline-6), including tuning, overhaul, and troubleshooting.
Fuel System:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection system diagnostics and repair.
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Getrag 260 manual, ZF 4HP22 automatic), clutch, driveshaft, differential, and axles.
Suspension:
Front struts, rear semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, and alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake systems (vented fronts on 325is), ABS (if equipped), hydraulic system, and rotor/pad replacement.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, alternator, starter, battery, fuses, relays, and lighting.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass, and structural components.
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnostics, refrigerant service (R12), blower motor, and climate control panel.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, belt tensioning, fluid checks.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuild (pistons, rings, bearings), head gasket replacement, transmission overhaul, clutch replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing specific parts like alternator, water pump, fuel injectors, starter motor.
Performance Tuning:
Basic tuning adjustments, ignition timing, idle speed settings.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting Flowcharts:
Detailed, step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for specific symptoms.
Diagnostic Capability:
Detailed diagnostic charts, symptom-to-cause mapping, and procedures for using diagnostic tools.
Rebuilding Procedures:
Comprehensive guides for rebuilding major components like the engine, transmission, and differential.
Specification Accuracy:
Precise torque specifications, clearances, timing settings, and fluid capacities.
Component Diagrams:
Exploded view diagrams for most mechanical and electrical components.
Torque Specifications List:
Comprehensive list of all torque specifications for fasteners.
Wiring Diagrams Quality:
High-resolution, clearly labeled wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil:
API SG, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (check owner's manual for ambient temperature specific viscosity).
Coolant:
BMW Premium Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW MTF-LT-2 (Manual Transmission Fluid - Longlife Transformer) or equivalent. Early Getrag 260 may use ATF Dexron II/III.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron III ATF or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II/III ATF or Pentosin CHF 11S (confirm specific requirement).
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 80W-90 gear oil.
Common Problems:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter housing), cooling system issues (water pump, thermostat, hoses), idle control valve issues, fuel distributor problems (less common on M1.3), subframe mounts wear, shock tower cracking (especially on early E30s, but addressed in later E30s).
Electrical Quirks:
Dashboard warning lights, intermittent instrument cluster failures, faulty OBC (On-Board Computer) modules.
