Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics seeking comprehensive repair data
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS300, Acura TL
Manual Advantage:
Officially licensed, comprehensive digital format offering easy navigation and searchability compared to older printed manuals.
Vehicle Appeal:
Known for its sporty handling, refined interior, and strong inline-six engine, making it a popular choice for driving enthusiasts.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, engine management (DME), cooling, lubrication, fuel injection, exhaust
Transmission Systems:
Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and troubleshooting
Drivetrain Systems:
Driveshafts, differential, axles, wheel bearings
Suspension Systems:
Front and rear suspension, steering components, shock absorbers, springs
Braking Systems:
Brake hydraulics, ABS, DSC, brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, ignition, lighting, power windows, locks, central locking, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM)
HVAC Systems:
Climate control, air conditioning, heating, ventilation
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, bumpers
Chassis And Frame:
Frame and chassis repairs, structural components
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid service, belt replacement, inspections
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, rebuild procedures for major systems
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostics for common and uncommon issues
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair information, including torque specifications, tolerances, and specialized tool requirements
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Horsepower:
184 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valvetrain:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 valves (4 per cylinder), VANOS (variable valve timing) on intake camshaft
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact:
4-Star (front), 5-Star (rear)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC) and Traction (ASC+T) standard
Braking Assist:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) optional on some models, ABS standard
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags standard. Optional rear side-impact airbags.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD, or optional Professional RDS with Cassette/CD Changer integration
Navigation:
Optional BMW navigation system (Mk III or Mk IV units)
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC)
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth preparation and telematics systems
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models
Rain Sensing Wipers:
Optional
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Oil Service (CBS) system or typically 7,500-10,000 miles / 12-15,000 km
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for iridium
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or as per CBS indicator
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, e.g., 5W-30 or 0W-30
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) diluted 50/50 with distilled water
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic (check manual for specific BMW recommendation)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
BMW LT-2 or LT-3 (check manual for exact type and capacity)
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (check manual for specific BMW recommendation)
Common Wear Items:
Cooling system components (water pump, thermostat, hoses, expansion tank), VANOS solenoid/seals, oil pan gasket, valve cover gasket, rear main seal, thrust arm bushings, sway bar links
Electrical Quirks:
Window regulator failures, heater core failure (leaks onto passenger floor), CCV (crankcase ventilation) system issues leading to oil leaks or rough running
Engine M54 Specific:
CCV system failure, oil sludge buildup if maintenance is neglected, VANOS rattle on cold start
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused, performance-oriented luxury vehicles with a strong emphasis on engineering.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (produced 1998-2006) represented a significant evolution for the 3 Series, offering improved dynamics, technology, and refinement over its E36 predecessor.
325I Positioning:
The 325i typically sat in the middle of the 3 Series range, offering a balance of performance and value, powered by the robust M54 inline-six engine.
Production Period:
2001 model year
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E46 3 Series, including the 325i, was frequently recognized on Car and Driver's '10Best' list for its driving dynamics and overall excellence.
Consumer Reports:
Consistently received good ratings for performance and reliability from publications like Consumer Reports, though some years/models had specific issue categories noted.
