🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

325i

Model Variant:

325

Year:

2002

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code Family:

M54

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Premium compact executive sedan/coupe

Target Demographic:

Professionals, driving enthusiasts, those seeking a balance of performance and luxury

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35

Vehicle Strengths:

Sporting dynamics, refined interior, strong inline-six engine performance, rear-wheel-drive bias

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners and technicians with in-depth knowledge for effective maintenance and repair, reducing reliance on expensive dealership services.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive service and repair

Intended Audience:

Professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, rebuilding, diagnostics, cooling system, lubrication system, timing system

Engine Management:

Fuel injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2), ignition system, sensors (MAF, O2, crank, cam), emission control systems (secondary air injection, EGR if applicable)

Transmission:

Manual (Getrag 420G) and Automatic (ZF 5HP19) transmission service, removal, installation, internal repairs, fluid specifications

Drivetrain:

Clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles, wheel bearings

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson strut, multi-link), rear suspension (multi-link), springs, dampers, bushings, alignment specifications

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, intermediate shafts

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, bleeding procedures

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, horn

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, glass, seals, chassis component torque specifications

Climate Control:

HVAC system, A/C refrigerant, compressor, blower motor, controls, cabin filter replacement

Infotainment And Comfort:

Radio, navigation system (if equipped), power windows, locks, mirrors, seats, sunroof

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid change

Repair Procedures:

Component removal and installation, rebuilding of major systems, diagnostic troubleshooting

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnosis of common faults, electrical system troubleshooting with wiring diagrams, engine performance issues

Diagnostics:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) procedures, fault code interpretation, live data analysis

Depth Of Coverage:

Detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, special tool requirements, clearances, and tolerances

Diagrams And Illustrations:

Includes diagrams, schematics, and illustrations for clarity

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable for quick information retrieval

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use

Quality Notes:

High-resolution scans or digital creation ensuring clarity of text and diagrams

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder

Engine Name:

M54B30

Displacement:

2.979 cc (3.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 89.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 24 valves (4 per cylinder), Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

Horsepower:

225 hp @ 5900 rpm

Torque:

214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI), Bosch Motronic ME7.2 engine management

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended)

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-40 synthetic is BMW's recommendation for this era.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G)

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic (ZF 5HP19)

Manual Transmission Features:

Close-ratio gearbox, hydraulic clutch actuation

Automatic Transmission Features:

Steptronic (manual shifting mode), electronically controlled

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific type (e.g., Dexron III or equivalent)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW LT-2 or ZF LifeguardFluid 5 (LF3)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2760 mm (108.7 in)

Length:

4471 mm (176.0 in)

Width:

1739 mm (68.5 in)

Height:

1414 mm (55.7 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1520 kg (3351 lbs) for sedan

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle placard

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120

Wheel Offset:

ET 47 (typical)

Tire Sizes:

Standard: 205/55R16, Optional: 225/45R17 front, 245/40R17 rear

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

5 Stars (for driver and passenger) for 2002 E46 models.

IIHS Rating:

Good (for 2002 E46 models)

Active Safety Systems:

ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), Traction Control

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, side-impact airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW Business CD or Professional CD (optional: CD changer, navigation system).

Display:

Green monochrome dot-matrix display for OBC (On-Board Computer) and radio information.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)

Connectivity Options:

Optional Bluetooth preparation (older systems), often requires separate cradle for phone connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) indicates intervals based on driving conditions; typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 100,000 miles for iridium spark plugs.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-4 years or as per CBS.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent (check manual for exact spec).

Common Issues:

CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failure leading to oil consumption and leaks, coolant expansion tank cracking, VANOS solenoid issues, oil separator hose failure, water pump failure (plastic impeller), oil pan gasket leaks, rear main seal leaks, strut mount wear, cooling fan clutch failure (mechanical fan models), window regulator failures, ABS/DSC sensor issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, performance-oriented vehicles with sophisticated engineering.

E46 Generation:

The E46 generation (1998-2006) represented a significant advancement over its E36 predecessor, offering improved chassis dynamics, refined interiors, and more powerful engines. The 325i, with the M54 engine, became a popular choice for its blend of performance and luxury.

Production Start Year:

1998 (for E46 generation)

Production End Year:

2006 (for E46 generation)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany, South Africa, USA (various plants)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Ward Auto Ten Best Engines:

The BMW M54 engine family was recognized multiple times by Ward's AutoWorld for its smooth power delivery, efficiency, and technological advancements.