🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Sub Model:

325i

Sub Model Variant:

325xi

Year:

1999

Chassis Code:

E46

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon

Usp:

Sporty handling, refined interior, advanced engineering for its time, availability of xDrive all-wheel drive.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus IS, Acura TL

Powertrain Options:

Inline-6 engines, rear-wheel drive (RWD) and xDrive all-wheel drive (AWD) options.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned BMW handling characteristics, balanced chassis, precise steering.

Build Quality:

High-quality materials and assembly typical of BMW.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Page Count:

Hundreds of Pages (estimated 1500+ pages for comprehensive E46 manual)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Full diagnostics, troubleshooting, component testing, fuel injection, ignition timing, emissions control, DME (Digital Motor Electronics) operation.

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical repair, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, clutch, manual transmission (Getrag 250G), automatic transmission (GM A4S 310R) overhaul and repair.

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (xDrive) system specifications, transfer case, driveshafts, differentials (front and rear), wheel bearings, CV joints.

Suspension:

Front McPherson strut assembly, rear multi-link suspension, control arms, ball joints, bushings, shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bars, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, caliper and rotor replacement.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, steering angle sensor diagnostics.

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and functions, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems, power windows, central locking, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM).

Bodywork:

Exterior panel removal and installation (doors, hood, trunk, bumpers), interior trim, glass replacement, body repair procedures, rust prevention.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system operation, refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, climate control unit diagnostics.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, drive belt inspection and replacement.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution.

Component Repair Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for disassembling, inspecting, repairing, and reassembling major vehicle components including engines, transmissions, differentials, and suspension parts.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, testing circuits, diagnosing sensors and actuators, programming control modules (where applicable).

Body And Trim:

Removal and installation procedures for interior and exterior trim components, door mechanisms, latches, and seals.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive; covers from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls, advanced electrical diagnostics, and chassis component repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Portable Document Format (PDF)

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documents, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M52TU B25

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, 24-valve, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

Displacement:

2494 cc (2.5 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 75.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Horsepower:

189 hp @ 5900 rpm

Torque:

181 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) with Bosch Motronic 5.2 engine management.

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 Liters (with heater core)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 ethylene glycol-based) or equivalent.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 325I:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 250G)

Transmission Type 325Xi:

5-speed Automatic Transmission (GM A4S 310R) with Steptronic function

Manual Clutch:

Hydraulic clutch actuation.

Automatic Features:

Adaptive shift logic, Sport and Steptronic modes.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW Manual Transmission Fluid LT-3 (or equivalent API GL-4/GL-5 synthetic) - Check for specific PN

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III/Mercon or equivalent (BMW P/N 83 22 0 024 249)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

107.3 inches (2728 mm)

Length:

177.4 inches (4506 mm)

Width:

68.3 inches (1735 mm)

Height:

55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Curb Weight 325I:

Approx. 3300 lbs (1497 kg)

Curb Weight 325Xi:

Approx. 3450 lbs (1565 kg)

Trunk Volume:

11.7 cu ft (331 L)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Standard Wheel Size:

16 x 7.0 inches

Standard Tire Size:

205/55R16

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

4/5 stars (for driver/passenger respectively, typical for era)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) / Traction Control System (ASR)

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, optional front side-impact airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.

Body Structure:

Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Factory BMW Professional CD or Cassette stereo system, optional navigation system (CCC).

Speaker System:

Factory 6 or 10-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Dsc:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) which integrates traction control and stability enhancement.

Bluetooth:

Optional Bluetooth phone integration, often requiring a separate cradle or adapter.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control with cabin microfilter.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system. Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual provides specific intervals.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific type and interval).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles (use BMW approved coolant).

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting BMW LL-01 or LL-98 specifications. Consult manual for exact viscosity and spec recommendation.

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 (BMW P/N 81 22 9 407 797)

Cooling System Weaknesses:

Plastic expansion tank cracking, water pump failure (often plastic impeller), thermostat housing leaks, radiator leaks.

Vanos Issues:

Degradation of O-rings and seals in the VANOS system leading to rough idle, loss of low-end torque, and rattling noises on startup.

Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:

Common failure point leading to oil leaks, especially after high mileage.

Subframe Mounts:

Cracking or separation of rear subframe mounting points, particularly in earlier E46 models, affecting handling and alignment.

Window Regulator Failure:

Plastic components in window regulator mechanisms prone to breaking.

ABSorbent Glass Mat Battery:

Though not a 'failure', battery registration with the DME is critical after replacement to ensure proper charging. Manual will detail this procedure.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan, luxury performance vehicles, and motorsport heritage.

E46 Introduction:

The E46 generation replaced the E36 3 Series. Introduced in 1998 for the 1999 model year in Europe and late 1998 in North America.

E46 Platform Significance:

Celebrated for its refined chassis, improved interior ergonomics, and more potent engine options compared to its predecessor.

Production Years:

1999-2006 (E46 generation worldwide)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Munich, Dingolfing, Regensburg), USA (Spartanburg, SC), South Africa, Austria, Russia, Thailand, India, Egypt, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, China.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

E46 3 Series models frequently appeared on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists during its production run, lauded for its driving dynamics and refinement.

Auto Express Reviews:

Generally received high marks from automotive publications for its balance of performance, luxury, and practicality.

Epa Fuel Economy:

EPA estimated MPG for 1999 325xi (AWD, Auto): Approx. 17 MPG City / 24 MPG Highway. (Actual MPG varies).