Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible
Brand Image:
Performance, Luxury, Driving Dynamics
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G20
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for balanced handling and responsive steering
Powertrain:
Smooth inline-six engines known for their refinement and power delivery
Build Quality:
Solid construction typical of BMW's engineering standards
Model Years Covered:
1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998
Chassis Covered:
E36 Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Touring
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (Exact count not provided but expected to be extensive)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, rebuild, timing, lubrication, cooling system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, ECU diagnostics
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission overhaul, repair, fluid service
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differentials, CV joints, rear-wheel drive system
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, brake pads, rotors, calipers, fluid bleeding
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuses, relays
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C operation and repair, heater core, blower motor
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, dashboard, trim
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trees and common problem-solving steps
Rebuilding:
Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds
Diagnostics:
Interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and performing system tests
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, adjustments, fluid capacities
Depth:
Comprehensive Factory Level - Suitable for Professional Technicians and Advanced DIYers
Detail Level:
Includes detailed diagrams, schematics, and exploded views
Engine Model:
M50B25 / M52B25
Engine Type:
2.5L Inline-6, DOHC, 24 Valves (M50) / 2.5L Inline-6, DOHC, 24 Valves (M52)
Bore X Stroke:
84 mm x 75 mm (M50) / 84 mm x 75 mm (M52)
Displacement:
2494 cc (2.5 Liters)
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1 (M50) / 10.2:1 (M52)
Horsepower Hp:
189 hp @ 5900 RPM (M50) / 170-190 hp @ 5500-6000 RPM (M52, depending on market/variant)
Torque Lb-Ft:
181 lb-ft @ 4200 RPM (M50) / 170-181 lb-ft @ 3900-4200 RPM (M52)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (91 Octane Recommended)
Length:
Approx. 174.5 in (4432 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.3 in (1709 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.7 in (1390 mm) (Sedan/Coupe)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.1 in (2695 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3200-3400 lbs (1450-1540 kg) depending on body style and transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 4300-4500 lbs
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (for sedans)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (for sedans)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger airbags standard from 1994 onwards, optional earlier
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Chassis Design:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones
Audio System:
Stock BMW premium sound system (e.g., Bavaria C Business/Professional), cassette player, optional CD changer
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system was available on later models
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Assist:
Rear park assist sensors were optional on some models.
Cell Phone Integration:
Optional integrated hands-free phone systems were available
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system; typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 or equivalent approved)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MTF LT-2 (BMW specification) or equivalent SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (GM specification) or ATF LT71141 for later models/ZF transmissions
Differential Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (API GL-5)
Cooling System:
Plastic water pump failure, radiator leaks, thermostat housing cracks
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings (bushings prone to tearing), rear shock mounts, front strut mounts
Electrical:
ABS sensor failures, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system solenoid issues, window regulator failures, fuel pump failures
Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket, carbon buildup on intake valves (especially direct injection variants, though less common on 325i M50/M52 which were port injected)
Interior:
Headliner sagging, worn driver's seat bolsters, cracked dashboard (less common)
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, sporty luxury vehicles.
E36 Introduction:
The E36 generation replaced the E30 3 Series in 1990/1991 (model year 1991 for coupes in US) and ran until 1999, with the 325i being a core model within this era.
325I Positioning:
The 325i represented a balance of performance and luxury, slotting below the M3 and above the 320i/325is (depending on market). It was known for its smooth M50 engine.
Production Period:
1992-1998 for the 325i variant within the E36 platform.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany, with some production also in Austria and South Africa.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E36 3 Series generation, including variants like the 325i, was frequently recognized on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production run for its driving dynamics.
Automotive Journalism Acclaim:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its handling, ride quality, and engine performance.
