🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

325xi

Model Variant:

325xi

Model Years Covered:

1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Codes Covered:

M54B30

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon

Brand Reputation:

BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, emphasizing performance, handling, and premium build quality.

Primary Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS300, Acura TL.

Driving Dynamics:

Rear-wheel-drive bias (though xi is AWD), balanced chassis, responsive steering, and engaging driving experience.

Powertrain:

Smooth inline-six engines known for their refinement and power delivery.

All Wheel Drive:

The 'xi' designation signifies BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system, enhancing traction and stability in various conditions.

Interior Quality:

Premium materials, driver-focused cockpit, and ergonomic design.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Type:

Factory Service Repair

Scope:

Comprehensive repair and maintenance

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided, but implies extensive detail)

Manual Type:

Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul of the M54B30 engine, including VANOS, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel injection, ignition, and emissions control.

Transmission:

Service and repair procedures for the ZF 5HP19 Steptronic automatic transmission, including fluid changes, seal replacement, valve body diagnosis, and torque converter service. Covers AWD system specifics for the xi model.

Drivetrain:

Comprehensive coverage of the xDrive all-wheel-drive system, including differentials, transfer case, driveshafts, and CV joints.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, including struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, sway bars, and wheel bearings. Alignment specifications and procedures.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), including caliper service, rotor replacement, brake pad replacement, bleeding procedures, ABS system diagnosis, and DSC integration.

Steering:

Power steering system, including pump, steering rack, hydraulic lines, and power steering fluid specifications. Steering column service.

Electrical System:

Complete electrical system schematics, wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, diagnostic procedures for modules (ECU, TCU, DSC, ABS), lighting systems, power windows, mirrors, and accessories.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, bumpers, glass replacement, and structural components. Chassis components and corrosion protection.

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:

HVAC system diagnosis and repair, including climate control module, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant handling, and cabin filter replacement.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, differential fluid changes.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common issues, fault code interpretation, and diagnostic testing procedures for all major systems.

Engine Repair:

Engine rebuild procedures, piston and ring replacement, cylinder head service, camshaft timing, valve seal replacement, oil pan gasket replacement.

Transmission Repair:

Transmission overhaul, clutch pack replacement (if applicable to the specific variant), solenoid testing and replacement, mechatronics unit service.

Brake System Repair:

Brake caliper overhaul, parking brake adjustment, ABS sensor replacement, hydraulic system bleeding.

Electrical Component Replacement:

Alternator replacement, starter motor replacement, battery testing and replacement, ECU programming and replacement, sensor replacement (e.g., crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor).

Body Work:

Door hinge adjustment, window regulator repair, mirror assembly replacement, bumper cover installation.

Depth:

In-depth, factory-level diagnostic and repair information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners, critical for proper assembly and safety.

Schematics:

Detailed electrical schematics and vacuum diagrams for accurate troubleshooting.

Component Locations:

Diagrams and descriptions indicating the location of all major components and sensors.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text-based PDF for efficient information retrieval.

Print Quality:

Optimized for digital viewing and printing, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder

Engine Code:

M54B30

Displacement:

3.0 Liters (2979 cc)

Horsepower:

Approximately 225 hp @ 6000 rpm (varies slightly by model year)

Torque:

Approximately 214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (varies slightly by model year)

Redline:

6500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

ECM:

Bosch Motronic ME7.x

Variable Valve Timing:

Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing System)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Steptronic Automatic (ZF 5HP19)

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G - Less common on xi models)

All Wheel Drive System:

xDrive (Permanent All-Wheel Drive with variable torque distribution)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent Esso JWS 3309/Texaco ETL-7045E/Mobil ATF 3309)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Sedan (4-door), Sports Wagon/Touring (5-door)

Wheelbase:

108.7 inches (2761 mm)

Length:

Sedan: 177.4 inches (4506 mm), Wagon: 184.3 inches (4681 mm)

Width:

68.5 inches (1740 mm)

Height:

Sedan: 55.7 inches (1415 mm), Wagon: 56.1 inches (1425 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3500-3700 lbs (1588-1678 kg), depending on body style and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4 Stars (Driver), 4 Stars (Passenger) for earlier E46 models.

IIHS Side Impact:

Good for models equipped with side airbags.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Dsc:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control

Traction Control:

Standard Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T)

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, optional front side-impact airbags, optional head protection airbags (side curtains).

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

BMW Professional Radio/CD, optional Harman Kardon sound system.

Navigation:

Optional BMW Business or Professional Navigation system (MK4 based).

Parking Sensors:

Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Telematics:

Optional telematics systems (e.g., BMW Assist) were available for emergency assistance and vehicle tracking.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system dictates intervals, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Consult the manual for specific CBS reset procedures.

Engine Air Filter:

Replace every 30,000 miles or as indicated by CBS.

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium). Consult manual for specific M54 recommendations.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 approved synthetic oil, SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) diluted 50/50 with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent specified by BMW.

Cooling System:

Plastic expansion tank failure, water pump failure (often plastic impeller), thermostat housing leaks. Regular inspection and replacement of these components is recommended.

Vanos:

Degradation of VANOS seals leading to rough idle, loss of low-end torque, and rattling noise on startup. Rebuild kits are available.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, oil pan gasket are common leak points due to age and material degradation.

Subframe Mounts:

Cracking or separation of rear subframe mounting points. A known structural issue requiring reinforcement or replacement.

Ccv System:

Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system can become clogged, leading to increased oil consumption, rough idle, and oil leaks. Regular replacement of the CCV valve and hoses is advised.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Origin:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, founded in Germany in 1916.

Philosophy:

Focus on engineering excellence, performance, and luxury.

E46 Generation:

The E46 generation (1998-2006 for Europe, 1999-2006 for North America) replaced the E36 3 Series and was a significant step forward in design, technology, and refinement.

Introduction Of Xi:

The xi designation (all-wheel-drive) was introduced for the E46 generation, offering enhanced traction, particularly appealing in regions with adverse weather.

Mid-Cycle Refresh:

The E46 received a significant facelift for the 2002 model year, introducing updated styling (headlights, taillights, bumpers) and powertrain enhancements.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also some production in Rosslyn, South Africa.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The E46 3 Series platform frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best list in various configurations during its production run, including models that would share aspects with the 325xi.