Positioning:
Essential resource for owners and independent repair shops seeking professional-level repair and maintenance information for the E36 325is.
Advantage:
Official licensing ensures accuracy and completeness, surpassing generic Haynes or Chilton manuals in detail and scope for BMW-specific procedures.
Features:
Searchable digital format for quick access to information, includes detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and diagnostic procedures.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Diagnostics, Maintenance
Specific Systems:
Engine, Drivetrain, Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Electrical, HVAC, Bodywork, Diagnostics
Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary format)
Engine:
Complete coverage of the M50B25 inline-6 engine, including M50B25TU updates, fuel injection (DME), ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust.
Drivetrain:
Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair, disc brake service, parking brake.
Steering Suspension:
Power steering system, rack and pinion, front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows, central locking.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, heater core, climate control system.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, bumpers, trim.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation for DME and ABS.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, head gasket replacement, brake caliper overhaul, suspension component replacement.
Electrical Repairs:
Wiring harness repair, component replacement (e.g., starter motor, alternator, fuel pump), diagnostic testing of electrical circuits.
Component Installation:
Detailed instructions for replacing parts such as water pump, thermostat, fuel injectors, control arms, shock absorbers.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical diagnostics and wiring diagrams.
File Type:
Digital Software (likely searchable PDF or similar)
Quality:
High-resolution digital content, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.
Binding:
Not applicable (Software)
Paper:
Not applicable (Software)
Engine Type:
3.0L (2494cc) DOHC Inline 6-Cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 91.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
189 hp @ 5900 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
181 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic DME)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Coolant Type:
BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent ethylene glycol-based with corrosion inhibitors)
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic
Oil Capacity W Filter:
6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts)
NHTSA Rating Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific year/model, but E36 generally performed well for its era.
ABS:
Standard Bosch ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard; passenger airbag optional/unavailable in early models.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones front and rear.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette stereo with optional CD changer. Limited connectivity by modern standards.
On Board Computer:
Optional multi-function On-Board Computer (OBC) displaying fuel consumption, range, and diagnostics. Often suffers from dead LCD pixels.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option.
Connectivity Features:
None by modern definition; basic CAN bus for diagnostics starts emerging in this era but is not user-accessible.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months (depending on driving conditions and oil used). Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., standard copper vs. long-life platinum/iridium).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or compatible hydraulic fluid.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 liters (8.5 US quarts)
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank cracking, water pump failure (often plastic impeller), thermostat housing leaks.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings (vibrations), strut mount failure, rear shock absorber fatigue.
Electrical:
ABS sensor failures, OBC (On-Board Computer) pixelation, headliner sagging, blower motor resistor failure.
Engine:
VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid seal leaks (on later M50 variants), vacuum leaks, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system clogging.
Interior:
Driver's seat bolster wear, dashboard cracks (less common than E30), window regulator failures.
Heritage:
BMW's legacy of building sporty, driver-focused sedans and coupes with a reputation for engineering excellence and performance.
E36 Introduction:
The E36 generation replaced the E30 and introduced a more modern chassis, improved aerodynamics, and advanced features.
325Is Positioning:
The 325is was the performance-oriented coupe variant for the early E36 generation, preceding the M3.
Production Years:
E36: 1990-2000. 325is: Primarily 1992-1995 in North America.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
