🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Variant:

325i

Year:

1989

Chassis Code:

E30

Engine Code Common:

M20B25

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe

Target Audience:

Performance-oriented luxury car buyers, enthusiasts

Primary Competitors 1989:

Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Volvo 240/740

Competitive Advantage:

Superior handling and driving dynamics, advanced engineering, brand prestige

Driving Experience:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, and engaging driving feel

Design Heritage:

Part of the iconic E30 generation, known for its timeless and muscular design

Engineering Philosophy:

Typical BMW focus on driver engagement, performance, and build quality

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Workshop

Component Coverage:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Bodywork, Climate Control, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Diagnostics

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Printed (Original Factory) or PDF Digital Format

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, valves, lubrication, cooling system overhaul, fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic M2.7 or M2.8)

Engine Management:

Ignition system, fuel delivery, emissions control, troubleshooting of electronic control unit (ECU) and sensors

Transmission Manual:

Gearbox overhaul, clutch replacement, driveshaft service

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission servicing, troubleshooting, overhaul (if applicable to 325i models of this year)

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, subframes, steering rack, power steering system

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (discs), caliper service, master cylinder, ABS system (if equipped), brake bleeding procedures

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, starter, alternator, battery, fuses, relays, instrument cluster, power windows, central locking

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, structural repair guidance, rust prevention

Climate Control:

HVAC system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling (R12)

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection and replacement

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (where applicable)

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system overhauls

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing specific parts like alternators, starters, fuel pumps, radiators, water pumps, CV joints

Adjustment And Calibration:

Valve adjustments (if applicable), timing belt tension adjustment, idle speed adjustment

Level Of Detail:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Includes diagnostic charts, symptom-to-cause analysis, and electrical troubleshooting based on wiring diagrams

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners

Special Tools:

Lists and descriptions of special tools required for specific procedures

Diagrams And Illustrations:

Extensive use of exploded views, schematics, and detailed illustrations for clarity

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (if digital), typically with searchable text and high-resolution images

Printed Quality:

High-quality printing with durable paper stock and clear diagrams (for original manuals)

Printed Binding:

Professional binding (e.g., perfect bound, spiral bound) for ease of use in a workshop environment

Printed Paper:

Durable, often glossy paper to withstand workshop conditions and highlight diagrams

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-6 Cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84 mm x 75 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1 or 9.0:1 (depending on specific engine variant)

Engine Code:

M20B25

Horsepower:

168-171 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm (depending on market and specific tuning)

Torque:

164-167 lb-ft (222-226 Nm) @ 4300-4500 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), either M2.7 or M2.8

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per owner's manual)

Cooling Type:

Water-cooled, pressurized system

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.0-5.5 liters (with filter)

Timing Belt Type:

Timing Belt (CRITICAL REPLACEMENT INTERVAL)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission

Clutch:

Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch

Driveshaft:

RWD (Rear Wheel Drive) with universal joints and guibo flex disc

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., Pentosin MTF 75W-80 or equivalent)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF Dexron II or Dexron III (check manual for exact spec)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 in)

Width:

Approx. 1670 mm (65.7 in)

Height:

Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1250-1350 kg (2756-2976 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by body style and options

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 430 liters (15.2 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Performance:

While official ratings from modern agencies are not directly comparable, the E30 chassis was known for its robust safety cage and build quality for its era.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an option, typically on rear wheels or all four wheels on later models.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag was optional and became more common in later E30 production years. Passenger airbags were not generally available.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts in front and rear (rear lap belts might be present in earlier models).

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and roof structure typical of BMW build quality.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Factory-installed premium sound system or aftermarket replacements. Limited connectivity by modern standards.

On Board Computer:

Optional On-Board Computer (OBC) with functions like MPG, average speed, and service interval reminders. Often prone to pixel failure.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system.

Connectivity Options:

Primarily analog. No Bluetooth, USB, or factory navigation. Aftermarket solutions are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12 months, using synthetic oil for best protection.

Timing Belt Replacement:

CRITICAL: Every 50,000 - 60,000 miles or 5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 30,000-50,000 miles depending on plug type.

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on climate). API SG/SH or higher.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (DOT 4 recommended for improved performance).

Cooling System Weaknesses:

Plastic coolant expansion tanks are prone to cracking; radiator hoses can degrade; water pump seals can fail.

Fuel System Issues:

Fuel pump failure, clogged injectors, failing fuel pressure regulator.

Electrical Gremlins:

Corroded grounds, failing headlight relays, malfunctioning OBC (On-Board Computer) and instrument cluster components.

Suspension Wear:

Worn control arm bushings (eccentric bushings), ball joints, and tie rod ends are common due to age and mileage.

Rust Prone Areas:

Wheel arches, rocker panels, battery tray area, front strut towers, rear trailing arm mounts.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for engineering excellence, 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy.

E30 Generation Timeline:

Introduced in 1982, the E30 generation replaced the E21. The 325i model was introduced in 1987, succeeding the 323i, and continued through the end of the E30's production.

Facelift Impact:

The 1989 model year represents a later stage of the E30's lifecycle, possibly incorporating minor updates from the 1987 facelift (e.g., larger bumpers, revised interior trim).

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), with some assembly in other global locations.

Production Years E30:

1982-1991 (sedan/coupe), 1987-1991 (convertible)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Performance Reviews:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists of the era for its handling, balance, and driver-focused experience.

Collectible Status:

The E30 M3 is a highly sought-after collectible, but the 325i is also recognized as a classic BMW with strong enthusiast following.

Jd Power Reliability:

Modern reliability ratings are not applicable. However, E30s are known for durability when properly maintained.