Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon
Key Competitors:
Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC, Lexus IS300.
Usp:
Sporty handling, sophisticated xDrive AWD system, premium interior, refined engine.
Platform:
E46 platform, known for its balanced chassis and rear-wheel-drive bias (modified for xDrive).
Powertrain Focus:
Emphasis on the inline-six engine and intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
General Coverage:
Complete service, repair, and diagnostic procedures for the 2004 BMW 325xi.
Specific Systems:
Engine, Drivetrain (xDrive AWD), Transmission, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical, HVAC, Bodywork, Diagnostics.
Estimated Pages:
Over 1500 pages (typical for a comprehensive BMW workshop manual).
Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Engine:
M54B30 engine: Disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, timing, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication.
Drivetrain AWD:
xDrive all-wheel-drive system: Transfer case, front differential, rear differential, drive shafts, system diagnostics.
Transmission:
Manual (Getrag 6-speed) and Automatic (GM 5L40-E): Overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications, shift control.
Brakes:
ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake fluid, disc/pad replacement, caliper servicing, parking brake.
Suspension:
Front struts, rear multi-link suspension, control arms, bushings, springs, shock absorbers, wheel alignment.
Steering:
Hydraulic power steering system: Rack and pinion, pump, fluid, troubleshooting.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, body control module (BCM), diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).
HVAC:
Climate control system, AC compressor, refrigerant recharge, blower motor, heater core, cabin filter replacement.
Bodywork:
Panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, bumper repairs.
Diagnostics:
Fault code reading, troubleshooting trees, component testing, use of diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA/D for dealer-level functions).
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, brake fluid service, differential fluid changes.
Repair:
Engine component replacement (e.g., VANOS, valve cover gasket, water pump), transmission rebuilds, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step guides for diagnosing common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Installation:
Component installation procedures for major parts and accessories.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting.
Engine Type:
3.0L Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder
Displacement:
2979 cc (181.7 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 89.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Horsepower:
225 hp @ 6,250 rpm (SAE Net)
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm (SAE Net)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Bosch Motronic ME7.2 control.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Valvetrain:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing).
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual (Getrag GS6-37BZ)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Automatic (GM 5L40-E)
Drivetrain:
xDrive Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with a power distribution bias.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent synthetic MTF)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent ATF compatible with GM 5L40-E)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for E46 generation overall)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for E46 generation overall)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with ABS and traction control.
Braking System:
4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, optional head protection airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners.
Head Unit:
BMW Business or Professional CD/Radio system, with optional navigation.
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio.
Traction Control:
Available traction control integrated with DSC.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth preparation for hands-free calling.
OBD Ii:
On-Board Diagnostics II compliant, supporting standard diagnostic protocols.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 to 15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil quality (as per Condition Based Service - CBS).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 100,000 miles for iridium-tipped spark plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, viscosity typically 5W-30 or 5W-40.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (low-viscosity, high-performance)
Engine Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket (OFHG), oil pan gasket.
Cooling System:
Water pump (plastic impeller common failure), thermostat, expansion tank leaks.
Vanos:
Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) system solenoid failures, rattling noise on startup.
Suspension Bushings:
Control arm bushings, subframe bushings wear, leading to clunks and imprecise handling.
Window Regulators:
Common failure of plastic components in power window regulators.
Drivetrain AWD:
Transfer case actuator failures, potential issues with front driveshaft CV joints.
Bmw Philosophy:
Ultimate Driving Machine, focus on sportiness, engineering excellence, and driver engagement.
E46 Generation:
Introduced in 1998, the E46 represented a significant refinement over the E36 generation, known for improved chassis dynamics, interior quality, and technology.
Xi Variant:
The 'xi' designation signifies BMW's all-wheel-drive system, introduced to the 3 Series line to enhance traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Production Years:
E46 3 Series: 1998-2006 (sedan/wagon). 325xi model specific production within this range.
