🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

325xi

Year:

1999

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code:

M52TU B25

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1999 BMW 325xi represented BMW's entry into the compact executive sedan segment with all-wheel-drive capability, targeting buyers seeking performance, luxury, and all-weather traction. It competed against models like the Audi A4 Quattro and Mercedes-Benz C-Class variants.

Competitors:

Audi A4 Quattro (B5 platform), Mercedes-Benz C280 4MATIC (W202 platform), Subaru Legacy GT.

Features:

Inline-6 engine, xDrive all-wheel-drive system, refined interior, balanced chassis, characteristic BMW driving dynamics, available sedan and touring body styles.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Workshop

Specific Systems:

Engine mechanical, Fuel system, Ignition system, Cooling system, Exhaust system, Clutch, Transmission (manual & automatic), Drivetrain (xDrive AWD), Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS/DSC), Electrical system, Body & chassis, Climate control, Instrumentation, Lubrication, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting.

Estimated Pages:

1000+

Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF or similar electronic format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnosis, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of M52TU B25 inline-6 engine. Includes VANOS system, cylinder head, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train.

Drivetrain:

Specific coverage for the xDrive all-wheel-drive system, including transfer case, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, and CV joints.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system components, brake fluid bleeding procedures, caliper overhaul, rotor and pad replacement.

Electrical:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, starter system, charging system (alternator), lighting system, power windows, mirrors, seats, instrument cluster, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation.

Maintenance:

Oil change procedures, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flush and replacement, brake fluid service, differential fluid service, transfer case fluid service.

Repair:

Engine component repair (e.g., head gasket, oil pan gasket), transmission repair, suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, control arms), steering rack overhaul, exhaust system repair, body panel repair, interior trim removal and installation.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical faults, braking system issues, and HVAC system malfunctions. Use of BMW diagnostic tools (e.g., DIS, GT1) may be referenced.

Depth:

Full workshop level detail, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Includes torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic strategies, and rebuild procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Likely a searchable PDF document with high-resolution images and diagrams. May be optimized for printing specific sections.

Quality:

High-resolution, professional-grade for clear reproduction of diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder

Engine Displacement:

2494 cc (2.5 Liters)

Engine Code:

M52TU B25

Bore X Stroke:

84 mm x 75 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

Horsepower:

170 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Automatic Transmission (Steptronic available later)

Drivetrain:

xDrive All-Wheel Drive (permanent)

Transfer Case Type:

Planetary gear center differential with open front and rear differentials

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4471 mm (176.0 in)

Width:

1739 mm (68.5 in)

Height:

1415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase:

2725 mm (107.3 in)

Front Track:

1471 mm (57.9 in)

Rear Track:

1475 mm (58.1 in)

Trunk Volume:

440 Liters (15.5 cu ft) - Sedan

Curb Weight:

1540 kg (3395 lbs) approx.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

2010 kg (4430 lbs) approx.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Not extensively tested by NHTSA in modern standards, but generally considered safe for its era.

Traction Control:

DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)

Braking System:

Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

Airbags:

Front airbags for driver and passenger. Side airbags optional/standard on some trims.

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis and crumple zones designed for occupant protection.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard BMW Business CD or optional BMW Professional CD/radio systems. Speaker configurations varied by option.

Navigation:

Optional BMW Navigation system (MKII or MKIII) with CD-ROM based maps.

Stability Control:

Standard DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system which includes traction control functionality.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Phone Integration:

Optional Bluetooth preparation (car phone module) and voice control systems were available on later E46 models, potentially introduced in '99 or early 2000s.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Refer to Condition Based Service (CBS) system if equipped.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 60,000 miles (or as specified for iridium/platinum plugs).

Coolant Replacement:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Every 50,000-60,000 miles. Automatic: Every 50,000 miles, or as per BMW's 'lifetime' fluid recommendation with caution.

Engine Oil:

BMW Longlife-01 or Longlife-98 specifications, typically SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic oil.

Coolant:

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

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 (e.g., BMW Super DOT 4).

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent synthetic hydraulic fluid.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent synthetic gear oil (e.g., Red Line MT-90).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF LT-2 or LT-3 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF1).

Differential Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil for both front and rear differentials and transfer case.

Common Problems:

Vibrations from driveshaft guibo/center support bearing, cooling system issues (plastic expansion tank, water pump, thermostat), VANOS solenoid leaks, CCV system failures causing oil leaks, oil pan gasket and valve cover gasket leaks, front suspension bushings and control arms wear, window regulator failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, has a long history dating back to 1916, renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy emphasizing performance, engineering, and driver engagement.

E46 Generation:

The E46 generation (1998-2006) was a significant redesign of the 3 Series, known for its improved handling, refinement, and technology over its E36 predecessor. The 325xi model introduced AWD to the 3 Series lineup in many markets, broadening its appeal.

Production Period:

The E46 3 Series was produced from 1998 to 2006, with the 325xi variant being available from the 1999/2000 model year onwards.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Germany (e.g., Dingolfing, Munich) and also assembled in various international locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Ward Automotive:

While specific awards for the 1999 325xi are not widely publicized, the E46 generation as a whole was highly acclaimed for its engineering and driving dynamics, often appearing on 'Best Cars' lists.

Konsumen Reports:

Consumer Reports generally rated the E46 3 Series highly for performance and handling, though reliability scores could vary based on specific components and maintenance.