Vehicle Class:
Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon
Key Competitors:
Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC, Lexus IS300.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for BMW's signature handling, balanced chassis, and the stability of the xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
Powertrain:
Smooth inline-six engines known for their refinement and linear power delivery.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW build quality with premium materials and solid construction for its era.
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and BMW enthusiasts seeking in-depth knowledge.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, timing, cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection system (DME), starter, alternator, battery, wiring diagrams.
Transmission:
Automatic and Manual transmissions: Removal, installation, overhaul, fluid specifications, shift control.
Drivetrain:
xDrive all-wheel drive system, differential, driveshafts, CV joints, transfer case.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, linkages.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (ABS, DSC), rotors, calipers, pads, hydraulic system, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Body control module (BCM), lighting, wipers, horn, central locking, power windows, mirrors, instrument cluster.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, climate control, refrigerant, blower motor, compressor.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, airbags.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
OBD-II diagnostics, fault codes, diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing engine components, transmission, suspension parts, brakes, electrical modules.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic approaches to diagnosing and resolving common and uncommon vehicle issues.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Technical Data Tables:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 Stars (Driver), 5 Stars (Passenger)
Traction Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
All Wheel Drive:
BMW xDrive permanent all-wheel drive with Variable Torque Distribution (VTD)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) typically recommends every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., iridium)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or equivalent SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Ethylene Glycol Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Ccv System:
Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system failure leading to oil consumption and smoke.
Cooling System:
Plastic cooling system components (expansion tank, water pump, thermostat housing) prone to cracking.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, and oil pan gasket commonly leak.
Suspension Wear:
Front control arm bushings (bushings and ball joints), rear trailing arm bushings, and tie rod ends are common wear items.
Window Regulators:
Plastic clips in the window regulator mechanism are known to break.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter HU 832/1, Mahle OX 37
Cabin Air Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter CU 2557
Brand Legacy:
BMW's long history of producing driver-focused vehicles with superior engineering and performance.
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation replaced the E36 in 1998 and represented a significant step forward in design, technology, and refinement.
325Xi Introduction:
The 'xi' designation signifies BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system, introduced to the 3 Series lineup to enhance traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Production Period:
1999-2005 for the E46 generation 325xi.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing and Regensburg, Germany.
