Positioning:
The BMW 325i (E30) was a highly regarded sports sedan and coupe, known for its driving dynamics and build quality, popular among enthusiasts and daily drivers alike.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90 Quattro, and the Alfa Romeo Milano/75.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive layout, and responsive handling.
Engine Performance:
Smooth and rev-happy M20 inline-six engine provided spirited performance.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW build quality for the era, offering durability and a premium feel.
Engine Mechanical:
Full rebuild procedures, component specifications, timing belt, cylinder head, piston/ring installation, crankshaft, camshaft.
Engine Management:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection and ignition system diagnostics, sensor testing (TPS, MAF, O2), ECU troubleshooting, idle control.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, clutch replacement, differential service, torque converter replacement.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system overhaul, caliper service, rotor replacement, ABS system diagnostics (if equipped).
Suspension Steering:
Front struts, rear shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, steering rack, power steering system.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams for all systems, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, fuses, relays, instrument cluster diagnostics.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter replacement, fuel tank service.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan clutch replacement, flush and fill procedures.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipe replacement.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel alignment, door lock mechanisms, window regulators, interior trim removal, rust repair guidance.
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant checks, brake fluid flushes.
Troubleshooting:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts for common problems (no-start, poor performance, electrical faults).
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and rebuilding of major systems.
Diagnostics:
Component testing procedures, resistance values, voltage checks, use of diagnostic tools.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive torque values for all critical fasteners.
Alignment:
Wheel alignment specifications and procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Engine Type:
2.5L SOHC Inline-6 Cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
84 mm x 75 mm
Horsepower:
168 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
164 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (approx.)
System:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Digital Engine Management
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Timing Belt Type:
Rubber Timing Belt
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Recommended every 60,000 miles or 4-5 years (critical to prevent engine damage).
Type:
Getrag 260 5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends API GL-4 gear oil, e.g., Castrol TWS Syntran 75W-90 or equivalent.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW LT-3 or equivalent Dexron III (check manual for specific BMW numbering).
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic analog controls.
Display:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, and temperature. Warning lights for system status.
Cruise Control:
Optional electronic cruise control.
Bluetooth:
Not applicable for this model year.
Aux Input:
Not applicable for this model year. Aftermarket solutions available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, using synthetic oil.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 miles (refer to manual for specific plug type).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24 months or as indicated by fluid condition.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 Synthetic (API SG or higher). Check owner's manual for precise recommendation.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or Pentosin CHF 11S (check specific model/VIN).
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing.
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank can become brittle and crack; water pump and thermostat failures are not uncommon.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, strut mounts, and ball joints can lead to noise and poor handling.
Electrical Issues:
Corrosion on electrical connectors, fuel injector harness failures, and dashboard warning light issues can occur.
Idle Control:
Idle Air Control (IAC) valve can become dirty or fail, causing rough idle or stalling.
Timing Belt Kit Part Number Example:
Gates TCK233 or OEM equivalent
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter HU 718/1y or Mahle OX 102
Heritage:
BMW, established in 1916, has a long history of producing premium automobiles, particularly renowned for their sporty driving characteristics.
E30 Introduction:
The E30 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 1982 (Europe) and 1983 (North America), replacing the E21. The 325 and 325e models debuted in 1983/1984, with the 325i replacing the 325e with the more powerful M20B25 engine in 1987.
Production Period:
1982-1994 (E30 platform), with 325i models covered from 1987-1991 in the US market (with the 1987 model year transition for the 325i).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany.
