Segment:
Entry-level luxury sport sedan/wagon
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and owners seeking detailed DIY repair and maintenance information
Key Competitors:
Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC, Lexus IS250 AWD, Infiniti G35x
Vehicle Focus:
Performance, handling, luxury, advanced technology
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides official, detailed procedures to maintain and repair the specific 2006 BMW 325xi, reducing reliance on expensive dealership services.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, component testing, diagnostics, timing, lubrication
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection (DME), sensors, actuators, ECU troubleshooting
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox repair, shift linkage, component replacement
Transmission Automatic:
Mechatronics, valve body, torque converter, TCU troubleshooting, fluid service
Drivetrain AWD:
xDrive system operation, transfer case, front/rear differentials, driveshafts
Suspension:
Front struts, rear shocks, control arms, bushings, springs, sway bars, alignment
Brakes:
ABS, DSC, brake pad/rotor replacement, brake fluid service, caliper repair
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, pressure regulation
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, exhaust pipes, gaskets
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays
Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, bulb types
HVAC:
Climate control, A/C system, heater core, blower motor, cabin filter
Body Interior:
Door panels, seat removal, trim components, dashboard disassembly
Body Exterior:
Bumpers, fenders, hood, trunk, door panel replacement, glass
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, SRS module troubleshooting
Diagnostics:
OBD-II codes, BMW specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing procedures
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, brake fluid flush
Component Replacement:
Water pump, thermostat, alternator, starter, fuel pump, O2 sensors
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon issues
Rebuilds:
Engine rebuild specifications, transmission overhaul procedures
Adjustments:
Valve adjustments (if applicable), alignment procedures
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical schematics
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls)
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic procedures using BMW's ISTA/D principles (though requires separate diagnostic tools)
Infotainment System:
iDrive Controller with Central Information Display (CID) (CCC generation)
Audio Options:
AM/FM stereo, CD player, optional Sirius Satellite Radio, optional Logic 7 premium audio system.
Navigation:
Optional Professional Navigation System
Parking Assist:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) - front and rear sensors.
Lighting Features:
Optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights
Connectivity Options:
Optional Bluetooth mobile interface, optional USB/Auxiliary input
Climate Control:
Standard automatic climate control, optional heated front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Oil Service Interval (VOIS) system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Coolant Flush:
Initial service at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 100,000 miles (N52 engine).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 Synthetic, BMW LL-01 approved (e.g., Castrol EDGE Professional OE 0W-30)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 quarts (6.2 liters)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (BMW High Performance Brake Fluid)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF Lifeguardfluid 6 (LF-6), lifetime fill but recommended for replacement around 60,000-100,000 miles.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-3 (or equivalent API GL-4 75W-80)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid.
Common Issues Engine:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), VANOS solenoid failure, water pump failure, ignition coil failure, PCV valve issues.
Common Issues Transmission:
Automatic transmission mechatronic unit failure, clutch wear (manual).
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, strut mount failure.
Common Issues Electrical:
CCC/iDrive system glitches, window regulator failure, HVAC blower motor resistor.
Common Issues AWD:
Transfer case actuator issues (less common on this generation than later ones).