🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

323i

Model Variant:

323

Year:

1995

Chassis Code:

E36

Engine Code Family:

M52

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe

Competitors 1995:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus ES 300, Infiniti J30

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned BMW handling, rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, driver-focused cockpit

Engine Philosophy:

Smooth, powerful inline-six engines, emphasis on refinement and performance

Build Quality:

High-quality materials, solid construction, durable components

📋 Manual Details

Engines Covered:

All specified for 1995 323i

Transmissions Covered:

All types (Manual and Automatic)

Trim Levels Covered:

All

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (typical for OEM workshop manuals, often 1000+ pages)

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full overhaul, timing, valve train, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic)

Engine Management:

Diagnosis and repair of ECU, sensors, actuators, ignition system, emissions control

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox overhaul, driveshafts, shifting mechanisms

Transmission Automatic:

Transmission control unit, hydraulic system, planetary gears, torque converter, fluid service

Suspension:

Front struts, rear multi-link (Z-axle), control arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system (including sensor diagnosis, hydraulic unit repair), brake fluid service, parking brake

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, tie rods

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting, horns, wipers, power windows, mirrors

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, chassis lubrication

HVAC:

Air conditioning system (refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser), heating system, blower motor, climate control unit

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS diagnosis, component replacement), seat belts

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, wiring diagrams for fault tracing

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, overhaul, and reinstallation for all major systems

Diagnostics:

Information on using diagnostic tools (e.g., early OBD-II scanners), reading fault codes, interpreting sensor data

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems

Depth:

Professional-level diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures, suitable for independent mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable

Quality:

High-resolution, clear diagrams and text suitable for printing

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

M52B25

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-cylinder

Displacement:

2494 cc (2.5 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84 mm x 75 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Horsepower:

189 hp @ 5900 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 4200 rpm (approx.)

Injection Type:

Bosch Motronic M5.2 Electronic Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Electronic Ignition (DIS)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual (Getrag 260/5 or ZF S5-31)

Type:

4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22) or 5-speed Automatic (ZF 5HP18)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch

Manual Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent) SAE 75W-90

Automatic Fluid:

Dexron III (or equivalent) ATF

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4433 mm (174.5 in)

Width:

1711 mm (67.4 in)

Height:

1393 mm (54.8 in)

Wheelbase:

2700 mm (106.3 in)

Length:

4433 mm (174.5 in)

Width:

1711 mm (67.4 in)

Height:

1350 mm (53.1 in)

Wheelbase:

2700 mm (106.3 in)

Curb Weight Sedan Manual:

Approx. 1420 kg (3130 lbs)

Curb Weight Coupe Manual:

Approx. 1400 kg (3086 lbs)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120

Wheel Size Std:

15x7.0

Tire Size Std:

205/60 R15

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact:

4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) - 1995 model year may vary slightly by test protocols.

ABS:

Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)

Traction Control:

Optional (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control + Traction)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags (SRS)

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional BMW Business or Professional RDS radio/cassette player with CD changer compatibility. Typically 6-10 speakers.

Display:

Basic LED/LCD display for radio and climate control functions.

Cruise Control:

Standard or Optional

OBD Ii:

Early implementation of OBD-II standard (1996+), but 1995 models often used the BMW proprietary 20-pin diagnostic connector (later adapters are common).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) or typically every 10,000-15,000 miles (15,000-25,000 km) or annually. Check manual for specific CBS parameters.

Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles (45,000-75,000 km) or as needed based on operating conditions.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (90,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium plugs, but check manual for specific recommendations for the OEM plug type.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic, meeting BMW LL-98 specification (or equivalent, e.g., API SJ/SL, ACEA A3/B3).

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 Ethylene Glycol based), 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Common Faults M52:

Vanous shaft seal leaks (oil pan, valve cover), PCV system issues, radiator support bracket cracks, cooling fan clutch failure, fuel pump failure, ABS sensor faults, window regulator failures, sagging headliner.

Common Faults E36:

Subframe mounting point cracks (rear), VANOS solenoid failure, thermostat housing leaks, heater control valve failure, door panel adhesive failure (leading to rattling).

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Ultimate Driving Machine, focus on performance, engineering, and driver engagement

E36 Generation:

The E36 generation, launched in 1990/1991, replaced the highly successful E30. It marked a significant step forward in chassis design, aerodynamics, and interior refinement. The 323i was introduced later in the E36 lifecycle, offering a potent inline-six engine between the 320i and 328i.

Production Period:

E36 production spanned from 1990 to 2000. The 323i variant was primarily available from 1995 to 1999 in most markets.

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Hauptwerk Munich, Dingolfing), Austria, South Africa, Mexico