🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

325i

Generation:

E46

Production Years Covered:

1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005

Chassis Code:

E46

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Premium compact executive sedan/coupe.

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts seeking performance, luxury, and advanced engineering, as well as owners prioritizing self-maintenance and understanding of their vehicle.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Acura TL, Infiniti G35.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for BMW's signature 'Ultimate Driving Machine' characteristics: precise steering, balanced chassis, engaging handling.

Powertrain:

Smooth and powerful inline-six engines, available with manual or Steptronic automatic transmissions.

Interior Design:

Driver-focused cockpit, high-quality materials, ergonomic layout.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Full Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, based on typical industry offerings)

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by publisher, typically 800-1500+ pages for comprehensive E46 manuals.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, engine electrical, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, lubrication system, engine management (DME).

Transmission:

Manual transmission (Getrag), Automatic transmission (Steptronic), clutch, driveline, driveshafts, differential.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake discs, pads, calipers, lines, parking brake.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, sway bars, steering linkage.

Electrical:

Complete electrical system, battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instruments, wipers, power windows, power locks, central locking, alarm system, fuse box diagrams, wiring diagrams.

Body:

Body panels, doors, windows, bumpers, interior trim, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system, seats, airbags.

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting charts.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, brake service, tire rotation, belt inspection and replacement, battery maintenance.

Repair:

Engine tune-ups, component replacement (e.g., alternator, water pump, starter), transmission repair, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair, HVAC system repair.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common issues, symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring diagram interpretation for electrical faults.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, fluid capacities and types, alignment specifications, electrical specifications.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to in-depth repairs and diagnostics. Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely PDF (Portable Document Format) for digital versions.

Searchability:

Typically text-searchable for quick access to information.

Illustrations:

Detailed diagrams, exploded views, and clear illustrations.

Binding:

If printed, typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound for durability and lay-flat usability.

Paper Quality:

If printed, usually on durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M54B30 (for 325i) / M54B25 (for earlier 325i models in some markets, though B30 became more common for the 325i designation during this E46 lifespan)

Engine Type:

Naturally aspirated inline-six, DOHC, 24 valves

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc) or 3.0 Liters (2979 cc) depending on the specific model year and market interpretation of '325i' which transitioned to the 3.0L M54B30 engine in later years of the E46 production run, often designated as 325i.

Horsepower:

Approximately 184 hp (137 kW) for 2.5L / Approximately 225 hp (168 kW) for 3.0L (M54B30)

Torque:

Approximately 236 Nm (174 lb-ft) for 2.5L / Approximately 285 Nm (210 lb-ft) for 3.0L (M54B30)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential multi-port fuel injection (Bosch Motronic DME)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended)

ECM:

Bosch Motronic ME 7.2

Emission Control:

Secondary air injection system, catalytic converters, evaporative emission control (EVAP).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag S5D-250G)

Type:

5-speed Automatic Transmission with Steptronic function (GM A5S325Z)

Clutch:

Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch.

Driveline:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD).

Differential:

Open differential, with limited-slip differential (LSD) as a rare factory option or aftermarket upgrade.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,471 mm (176.0 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,739 mm (68.5 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,725 mm (107.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,450 - 1,550 kg (3,197 - 3,417 lbs), depending on transmission and options.

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 440 liters (15.5 cu ft)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm

Standard Wheel Size:

16-inch (e.g., 7Jx16 ET47)

Optional Wheel Size:

17-inch (e.g., 7.5Jx17 ET41 or 8Jx17 ET50)

Standard Tire Size:

205/55R16

Optional Tire Size:

225/45R17 (front), 245/40R17 (rear) for 17-inch wheels.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Likely 4 out of 5 stars (based on typical E46 testing for similar models, exact rating may vary slightly by year and testing protocols).

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (based on typical E46 testing for similar models, exact rating may vary).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System.

Dsc:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control (later iterations often included traction control).

Traction Control:

Often integrated with DSC, or available as a separate system.

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional side airbags, optional head protection system (HPS).

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.

Chassis Structure:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Various BMW Business CD or Professional CD/RDS radio head units, often with cassette player. Optional CD changer available.

Navigation:

Optional BMW Business or Professional navigation systems, typically utilizing CD-ROM based maps.

Sound System:

Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium sound system.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC).

Phone Integration:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free system, often requiring a specific cradle or adapter.

Headlights:

Standard halogen headlights, optional Xenon HID headlights with adaptive headlight control.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends oil changes between 10,000 to 15,000 miles (15,000 to 25,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first. Actual intervals depend on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically at 60,000 to 100,000 miles (100,000 to 160,000 km), depending on plug type (e.g., long-life iridium).

Coolant Flush:

Recommended every 2 to 4 years or at specified mileage intervals (e.g., 30,000 miles).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Recommended every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil Type:

Synthetic engine oil, SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30, meeting BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) specification.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) for M54 engines.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed with distilled water in a 50/50 ratio.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (BMW recommends specific part numbers for optimal performance).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

BMW Approved ATF, often a Dexron III or equivalent, specific BMW part number is crucial. Lifelong fluid is often cited, but changes are recommended by many specialists.

Differential Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (API GL-5).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) brake fluid (BMW part number 83 19 2 167 072 or equivalent).

Ccv System:

Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system failure is common, leading to oil leaks, rough idle, and increased oil consumption. Replacement of the CCV valve and hoses is a frequent repair.

Cooling System:

Plastic expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Water pump failures (especially plastic impellers) and thermostat issues are also prevalent.

Oil Pan Gasket:

Rear main seal and oil pan gasket leaks are common due to age and material degradation.

Vanos:

Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) solenoids and seals can fail, leading to rough idle, loss of power, and increased emissions.

ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:

Front ABS wheel speed sensors are prone to failure, causing ABS and/or DSC warning lights to illuminate.

Window Regulators:

Plastic components in window regulators can break, causing windows to fail to operate.

Subframe Bushings:

Rear subframe mounting bushings can wear and tear, leading to clunks over bumps and compromised handling.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, performance-oriented luxury vehicles.

E46 Introduction:

The E46 generation replaced the E36 3 Series and was produced from 1998 to 2006. The 325i variant evolved within this generation, notably adopting the M54 engine line.

325I Engine Progression:

Early E46 325i models often used the M52TU engine (2.5L), while later models predominantly featured the M54B30 (3.0L) engine, which offered increased power and torque, often still badged as 325i in certain markets. This manual should cover the transition.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany, with some production also occurring in other BMW plants globally.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver:

Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run, a testament to its enduring appeal and driving dynamics.

Consumer Reports:

Generally well-regarded for performance and handling, though reliability ratings varied, often influenced by the specific issues mentioned in the maintenance section.