Positioning:
The BMW 3 Series (E36) represented BMW's entry into a more modern, premium compact executive segment, offering a blend of sportiness, luxury, and advanced engineering.
Competitors:
Competed directly with models such as the Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus ES, and Cadillac Seville during its production run.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and driver-focused cockpit.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW build quality with a focus on premium materials and fit and finish.
Engine Performance:
The 325i offered a strong inline-six engine providing smooth power delivery and a satisfying engine note.
Utility:
Essential tool for maintaining and repairing the E36 325i, saving owners significant costs compared to dealership service.
Coverage Years:
1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management (DME), fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, driveshafts, differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering system, braking system (ABS included), wheels & tires
Electrical:
Engine electrical, lighting, instrumentation, body electronics, comfort systems, infotainment basics
Body:
Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, climate control (HVAC)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Major Repairs:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, suspension component replacement, brake system overhauls, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (for relevant systems), diagnostic flowcharts
Technical Data:
Specifications, torque values, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams, component locations
Depth:
Comprehensive; suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians. Covers basic to advanced repair and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated Inline-6 (Straight-6) DOHC
Engine Code:
M50B25TU (Technical Update)
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower Hp:
189 hp @ 5900 rpm (approx.)
Torque Lb-Ft:
181 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Engine Management with Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Dme Type:
Bosch Motronic M3.3 (early years) / M5.2 (later years)
Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter
Recommended Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (refer to manual for specific BMW LL-XX specifications)
Type:
Getrag 250G 5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
ZF 4HP22EH 4-speed Automatic Transmission with Steptronic (later models may have 5-speed automatic)
Manual Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch
Automatic Control:
Electronic transmission control for shift points and firmness
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or equivalent SAE 75W-90 GL-4 gear oil for some later manual versions. Consult manual.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF Dexron III (or equivalent)
Length Sedan:
4,433 mm (174.5 in)
Width:
1,711 mm (67.4 in)
Height Sedan:
1,397 mm (55.0 in)
Wheelbase:
2,700 mm (106.3 in)
Trunk Volume Sedan:
400 L (14.1 cu ft)
Curb Weight Sedan Manual:
1,430 kg (3,153 lbs) approx.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and configuration (refer to VIN plate)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (driver) / 4-star (passenger) - 1997 model year test
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) on some models
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard from 1995 onwards. Earlier models may have optional or no airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear
Audio System:
Optional premium audio systems, often with cassette player and CD changer compatibility (trunk-mounted).
Onboard Computer:
On-Board Computer (OBC) with functions like fuel consumption, range, and external temperature display.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system
Communications:
Optional cellular phone integration in later models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic oil). Consult manual for detailed service indicator system (SI) reset procedure.
Coolant Change:
Every 2 years or as indicated by the service indicator.
Spark Plugs:
Approximately every 60,000 miles (or based on inspection).
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW CHF 11 S (or Pentosin 11S) or equivalent.
Coolant:
BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (blue concentrate) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank cracking, water pump failure (plastic impeller), thermostat housing leaks.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings (vibrations), shock absorber wear, strut mount failure.
Electrical:
ABS sensor failure, OBC (On-Board Computer) pixelation, fuel pump relay failure, blower motor resistor failure.
Engine:
VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) rattle or failure on M50TU/M52 engines, oil pan gasket leaks, intake manifold gaskets.
Interior:
Headliner sagging, door panel card separation, wear on driver's seat bolster.
Heritage:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-centric, sporty, and well-engineered automobiles with a focus on performance and luxury.
E36 Introduction:
The E36 generation replaced the E30 3 Series and was produced from 1990 (Europe) / 1991 (North America) to 2000. The 325i was a core model within this generation.
E36 Facelift:
E36 models received a significant facelift around the 1996/1997 model year, with updated bumpers, headlights, interior trim, and revised M52 engine for some variants.
Production Years Global:
1990-2000
Production Years Specific Model:
1992-1995 (M50B25 engine), 1996-1998 (M50B25TU engine, with M52 B25 in some markets for 1996)
Manufacturing Locations:
Mainly Dingolfing, Germany; also assembled in other BMW plants worldwide.
