Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops
Key Competitors 2004:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35
Vehicle Philosophy:
The Ultimate Driving Machine, balanced handling, refined performance
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners with factory-accurate repair and maintenance knowledge
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes
Electrical:
ECU, Sensors, Lighting, Power Distribution, Audio
Comfort And Convenience:
HVAC, Power Accessories, Seats
Body:
Exterior Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows
Safety Features:
Airbags, Seatbelts, ABS, DSC
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks
Engine Repair:
Head gasket, piston rings, valve timing, component replacement
Transmission Service:
Fluid changes, seal replacements, clutch service (manual), valve body repair (automatic)
Brake Service:
Pad/rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, bleeding procedures
Electrical Diagnostics:
Component testing, sensor diagnosis, wiring harness repair
Troubleshooting Guides:
Fault code interpretation, symptom-based diagnosis
Assembly Disassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation
Body Repair:
Panel replacement, dent repair, trim installation
Depth:
Factory-level detail for all repair and maintenance operations
Diagnostic Codes:
Covers OBD-II fault codes and BMW-specific codes
Torque Specifications:
All critical fastener torque values included
Clearances Tolerances:
Specified for key engine and mechanical components
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval
Resolution:
High-resolution, suitable for professional printing
Scalability:
Printable in entirety or specific sections
Binding:
Digital Download (Printable)
Recommendation:
Standard or heavy-weight paper for printing workshop copies
Engine Type:
Inline-6, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84 mm x 75 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 24 Valves, Double VANOS
Horsepower:
184 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
237 Nm (175 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME9.2)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-30 (BMW LL-01 certified)
Spark Plugs:
NGK BKR6EQUP (or equivalent)
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag S5D 250G)
Type:
5-Speed Automatic (ZF 5HP19)
Automatic Features:
Steptronic manual shift mode
Fluid Specifications Manual
Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 rated synthetic gear oil
Fluid Specifications Automatic
Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent Lifeguardfluid 5)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test:
5-Star (Driver & Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact Test:
Good
Traction Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard ABS
Braking Assist:
Optional, part of DSC system
Airbags:
Frontal, Side-impact, Optional Head Airbags
Seatbelts:
Pretensioners, Force Limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system
Head Unit Options:
BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD, Optional Navigation System
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, Optional Harman Kardon premium audio
Parking Assistance:
Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC)
Cellular Integration:
Optional BMW Assist telematics system
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard; aftermarket solutions available.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval (VSI) based on driving conditions, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 1 year.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles for iridium plugs (NGK BKR6EQUP).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or ZF-TE-ML 02K
Ccv System Failure:
Cracked or clogged Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system leading to oil consumption and rough idle.
Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:
Common leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket due to age and material degradation.
Cooling System Failures:
Plastic expansion tank cracks, water pump failure, thermostat issues.
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Failure:
Common failure leading to ABS and DSC warning lights.
Interior Plastic Degradation:
Sticky interior plastics and crumbling trim pieces.
Brand Identity:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW), renowned for performance, engineering, and luxury.
E46 Generation Introduction:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 1998 (for the 1999 model year in Europe, 2000 in North America) and ran until 2006.
325I Positioning E46:
The 325i served as a mid-range model in the E46 lineup, slotting above the 323i and below the 330i, offering a balance of performance and value.
Engine Transition:
The M54B25 engine replaced the M52TU B25 in 2001, featuring an aluminum block, improved VANOS, and higher output.
Production Years E46 325I:
2001-2005
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), South Africa, USA (Spartanburg)
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E46 3 Series (various models including 325i) was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best awards during its production run.
Road And Track Best Handling Car:
Consistently praised for its class-leading handling and driving dynamics by automotive journalists.
Engine Designation:
Ward's 10 Best Engines recognition for the M54 engine family.