🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

325i

Model Code:

E36

Year:

1994

Market:

North America

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1994 BMW 325i (E36) represented BMW's entry into the compact executive sedan segment, prioritizing a balance of sportiness and luxury. It competed with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and Lexus ES.

Competitive Analysis:

The E36 generation offered a significant leap in chassis dynamics and driver engagement compared to its predecessors, appealing to enthusiasts who valued handling and performance. Its build quality and brand prestige were key differentiators.

Key Features:

Renowned inline-six engine, sophisticated multi-link rear suspension, driver-focused interior, and a reputation for excellent handling and build quality.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All mechanical, electrical, and body systems

Page Count:

Digital (estimated 1000+ pages in equivalent print format)

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Downloadable Digital Format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (M50B25), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Electrical System (including Engine Control Unit - ECU, Body Control Module - BCM), Climate Control, Interior and Exterior Trim, Bodywork, Diagnostic Procedures

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, troubleshooting, component diagnosis, repair procedures, disassembly and reassembly of all major components, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation, specifications for torques, clearances, and fluid levels

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive from basic scheduled maintenance and fluid changes to complex engine overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body panel repair. Includes step-by-step instructions and detailed illustrations for a wide range of repair scenarios.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary Software/Digital Format (Likely PDF or application-based)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital format)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

M50B25

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder, DOHC, 24 Valves

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 75.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Performance Hp:

189 hp @ 5900 rpm

Performance Torque:

181 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm

Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic M3.3)

Engine Management:

Electronic Ignition and Fuel Control

Oil Capacity With Filter:

6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)

Recommended Oil Grade:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (Check manual for specific BMW LL-01 or LL-98 approvals if available, though later standards may not apply retroactively)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.0 Liters (7.4 US Quarts)

Spark Plugs:

Bosch F7DC0, NGK BKR6EK (or equivalent, check manual for exact OEM spec)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/5)

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent SAE 75W-90 GL-4 Gear Oil

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF Dexron III or equivalent

Final Drive Ratio:

3.15:1 (Typical for 325i)

Differential Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

4430 mm (174.4 in)

Exterior Width:

1711 mm (67.4 in)

Exterior Height:

1393 mm (54.8 in)

Wheelbase:

2700 mm (106.3 in)

Front Track:

1445 mm (56.9 in)

Rear Track:

1473 mm (58.0 in)

Curb Weight Manual:

Approx. 1470 kg (3240 lbs)

Curb Weight Automatic:

Approx. 1495 kg (3295 lbs)

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 410 Liters (14.5 cu ft)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

65 Liters (17.2 US Gallons)

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings:

NHTSA ratings from the era are less standardized than today. However, BMW's build quality and passive safety features were considered strong for its class.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all models

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell, side-impact protection beams

Braking System:

Front: Ventilated Disc, Rear: Solid Disc (ABS equipped)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm

Tire Size Standard:

205/60R15 (Common on base models, larger sizes like 225/50R16 and 235/40R17 were optional/on M-Sport variants)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, rudimentary climate control with manual or automatic (optional) air conditioning.

Driver Assistance:

ABS standard. Traction Control System (ASC+T) was an optional feature on some models.

Connectivity:

No modern connectivity features such as Bluetooth, USB, or Wi-Fi. OEM radio may have provisions for a CD changer.

Instrument Cluster:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, and engine temperature. Includes check control system for monitoring various vehicle functions.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals Oil Change:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first. Modern synthetic oils may allow for extended intervals, but adherence to the manual is critical.

Service Intervals Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Service Intervals Cabin Filter:

Replace every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), depending on driving conditions.

Service Intervals Spark Plugs:

Replace approximately every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) with recommended copper or platinum plugs.

Service Intervals Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).

Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid:

DOT 4

Fluid Specifications Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron III or specific BMW fluid

Known Issues:

Water pump impeller failure (plastic early type), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid and seal issues, coolant expansion tank leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, subframe mounting points fatigue, ABS sensor failure, OBC (On-Board Computer) pixel degradation, door panel vapor barrier seals failing (leading to water ingress).

Preventative Maintenance Tips:

Regularly inspect cooling system hoses and expansion tank. Monitor VANOS system for rattling noise on startup. Check subframe mounting bolts for tightness. Keep battery terminals clean. Use high-quality fluids.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) has a long-standing reputation for producing high-performance luxury vehicles, particularly known for its engaging driving dynamics and sophisticated engineering.

Model Evolution:

The E36 generation succeeded the popular E30 3 Series. Introduced in 1990, it brought a more modern design, improved aerodynamics, a significantly updated chassis, and a wider range of engine options, including the M50 inline-six.

Production Years:

1990-1999 (E36 platform)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Main production), South Africa, Mexico

Generation Codes:

E36 (Sedan: E36/3, Coupe: E36/2, Convertible: E36/3C, Compact: E36/5, Touring: E36/3B, M3: E36/M3)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1994 model year are hard to pinpoint retrospectively, the E36 generation was widely praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and overall refinement. It was a consistent contender in 'best compact luxury car' lists of its era.