Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics seeking in-depth knowledge of the E36 platform.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus ES (XV10).
Platform Strengths:
Excellent handling, balanced chassis, powerful inline-six engines, driver-focused interior.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair and maintenance information, crucial for preserving the performance and longevity of these classic BMWs.
Engine:
Comprehensive diagnostics, repair procedures, component testing, M50/M52 engine variants, VANOS system.
Transmission:
Manual (Getrag 260/5, 260/6) and Automatic (ZF 4HP22 EH) transmission repair, overhaul, and troubleshooting.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive system, differential, driveshaft, axle shafts, CV joints.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel bearings.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, brake lines, calipers, master cylinder.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, power steering pump, fluid specifications.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, component testing, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems, instrument cluster.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, EVAP system, fuel filter replacement.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan clutch, bleeding procedures.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipe replacement and repair.
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnostics, A/C system recharge, blower motor, heater core, climate control unit.
Body And Interior:
Door panel removal, seat adjustments, interior trim, body panel alignment, glass replacement.
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks, belt inspection and replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, symptom-based diagnosis, OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) system information.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair across all major vehicle systems.
Rebuilds:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission overhauls, including torque specifications and component clearances.
Adjustments:
Wheel alignment specifications, handbrake adjustment, headlight aiming, idle speed adjustment.
Installation:
Guidance on installing common aftermarket parts (e.g., audio systems, lighting) with emphasis on proper integration.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics.
Data Availability:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Engine Code:
M50B25 (early models), M52B25 (later models)
Engine Type:
2.5L Inline 6-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2494 cc (2.5 Liters)
Horsepower:
189 hp @ 5900-6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 4200-4700 rpm (approx.)
Redline:
6500 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
ECU:
Bosch Motronic 3.1 (M50), Motronic 3.3.1 or ME 5.2 (M52)
Vanos:
Yes (Variable Valve Timing System on camshafts)
Length:
Approx. 4433 mm (174.5 in) for Sedan
Width:
Approx. 1711 mm (67.4 in)
Height:
Approx. 1399 mm (55.1 in) for Sedan
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1430 kg (3153 lbs) for Sedan
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle's VIN plate or manual for exact GVWR.
Towing Capacity:
Not officially specified or recommended for most trims.
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
Generally rated well for its era, refer to specific model year NHTSA data if available.
IIHS Crash Test:
Good ratings for its time, particularly in frontal offset tests.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction)
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard; passenger airbag optional on early models, standard on later ones.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs, depending on type. Manual will specify exact interval and plug type.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles. Manual will specify BMW coolant type.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Inspect periodically. Automatic: Typically 50,000-60,000 miles. Manual specifies exact procedure and fluid.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting BMW Longlife-98 or LL-01 specifications (check manual for exact recommendation).
Coolant:
BMW Blue or Green antifreeze concentrate mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 recommended by BMW.
Common Problems Engine:
VANOS solenoid failure, oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan, coolant expansion tank cracking, water pump failure (plastic impeller).
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings (vibrations, steering wander), rear shock mount failures, subframe mounting point fatigue.
Common Problems Electrical:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure, instrument cluster pixelation, ABS sensor failures.
Common Problems Interior:
Headliner sagging, door panel clips breaking, worn seat bolsters.
Bmw Philosophy:
Ultimate Driving Machine, emphasis on performance, handling, and engineering.
E36 Introduction:
Introduced in 1990 (Europe), 1991 (North America) as the successor to the E30 3 Series.
E36 Variants:
Offered in Sedan (4-door), Coupe (2-door), Convertible (2-door), and Touring (5-door wagon) body styles. The 325i specifically denotes the 2.5L engine variant.
Production Years:
1991-1995 for E36 325i in North America. Model years 1992-1998 are covered by the manual for various E36 variants, with the 325i designation primarily for the earlier part of this range before the 328i took over the 2.8L engine.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), USA (Spartanburg, SC for some later E36 derivatives and other models).
