Market Segment:
Entry-level luxury sport sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, owners seeking to maintain and repair their vehicle.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus ES, Infiniti G20
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive dynamics, and engaging driving experience.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW build quality with durable materials and precise engineering.
Utility:
Indispensable resource for maintaining and repairing the E36 325i, saving significant costs on professional servicing.
Accuracy:
Based on official BMW service procedures and technical information.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnosis, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), emissions control
Transmission:
Manual (Getrag 260) and Automatic (ZF 4HP22) transmission service, overhaul, diagnosis, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Rear differential, driveshaft, CV joints, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front struts, rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, bushings, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes (ABS systems included), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, caliper and rotor service
Steering:
Power steering system service, steering rack, tie rods, fluid specifications
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting systems, instrument cluster, ignition system, fuses and relays
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, locks, mirrors, bumpers, trim, convertible top operation (if applicable)
HVAC:
Air conditioning system service, heater core, blower motor, climate control operation
Interior:
Seat removal and installation, dashboard, center console, upholstery
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, belt inspection and replacement
Repair:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilds, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) system explanation and diagnostic procedures, sensor testing
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and bodywork repair.
Engine Code:
M50B25 / M52B25
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts)
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Horsepower Est:
189 hp @ 5900 rpm (M50) / 192 hp @ 5900 rpm (M52)
Torque Est:
181 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm (M50) / 181 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm (M52)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent
Coolant Capacity Est:
8.5 Liters (8.9 US Quarts)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 260)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch
Automatic Transmission Features:
Sport and Economy modes (on some later models)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II/III ATF or GL-4 Gear Oil (check manual for specific weights)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III ATF
Radio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette or CD player, optional premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon).
On Board Computer:
Optional OBC with features like MPG, range, and diagnostics. Prone to LCD display failure.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control system.
Phone Integration:
Optional dealer-installed cellular phone kits were available.
Oil Change Interval Est:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months (synthetic oil recommended)
Coolant Flush Interval Est:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement Interval Est:
Every 60,000 miles (if using appropriate iridium/platinum plugs)
Brake Fluid Flush Interval Est:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (API SJ or higher, BMW LL-01 approved oil recommended for M52 engines)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Cooling System:
Water pump failures, thermostat housing leaks, radiator leaks, cracked expansion tanks, heater core leaks (common on E36 models).
Suspension:
Worn front control arm bushings (vibrations), rear trailing arm bushings (handling issues), strut mount wear.
Electrical:
Door lock actuator failures, OBC (On-Board Computer) pixelation, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) rattle (on M52 engines).
Fuel System:
Fuel pump failure, injector issues.
Brand Focus:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, has a long-standing reputation for building performance-oriented luxury vehicles with a focus on driving pleasure.
E36 Generation:
The E36 generation of the 3 Series, introduced in 1990 (as a 1992 model in North America), was a significant evolution from the E30, featuring a more modern design, improved aerodynamics, and advanced suspension technology.
325I Positioning:
The 325i was a popular mid-range model within the E36 lineup, offering a strong balance of performance and luxury, slotting below the M3 and above the 318i.
Production Years Global:
1990-1999
Production Years North America:
1992-1995 (for 325i), followed by 328i for later E36 years.
