🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

325xi

Year:

2001

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code:

M54B25

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Premium compact executive sedan, known for its sporty handling and refined interior.

Competitors:

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

Design Philosophy:

BMW's characteristic 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, focusing on driver engagement and performance.

All Wheel Drive:

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

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All Models, Engines, Trim, and Transmission Types for the 2001 BMW 325xi

Estimated Page Count:

Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive BMW workshop manuals)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system (VANOS, chain, guides), oil pump, cooling system, lubrication.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system, emissions control, ECU diagnostics, sensor data, throttle body control, DME (Digital Motor Electronics).

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (Getrag S5D 250G), Automatic transmission (GM A5S 325Z), transfer case (xDrive AWD system), driveshafts, CV joints, differentials (front and rear).

Brakes:

Brake system components (master cylinder, brake booster, calipers, pads, rotors), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), parking brake.

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (McPherson strut, control arms, sway bar), rear suspension (multi-link setup), power steering system (hydraulic pump, steering rack), wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, CAN bus communication.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, chassis structure, doors, windows, sunroof, bumpers, interior trim.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, climate control unit, refrigerant system, blower motor, A/C compressor.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belt pre-tensioners, occupant classification system.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin, fuel), spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, power steering fluid change, transmission fluid service, differential fluid change.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting common faults, reading diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), using BMW diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA/D), component testing, circuit testing.

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head gasket replacement, VANOS repair, timing chain guide replacement, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, fuel pump replacement, alternator replacement.

Installation Procedures:

Component installation (e.g., new engine, transmission, suspension parts), accessory installation.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing with clear text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

M54B25 Inline-6

Engine Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Engine Configuration:

Naturally Aspirated, DOHC, 24 Valves

Horsepower:

184 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

175 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Redline:

6500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)

Valve Actuation:

Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 Ethylene Glycol based)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag S5D 250G)

Optional Transmission:

5-Speed Automatic Transmission (GM A5S 325Z)

Drivetrain:

xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system with variable torque split.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

107.1 inches (2720 mm)

Length:

177.9 inches (4519 mm)

Width:

69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height:

56.1 inches (1425 mm)

Front Track:

58.7 inches (1491 mm)

Rear Track:

59.7 inches (1516 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3500-3600 lbs (1588-1633 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4500 lbs (2041 kg)

Trunk Capacity:

11.7 cubic feet (331 Liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (Driver and Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact:

4-Star (Front and Rear Passenger)

Dynamic Stability Control:

Standard DSC system for enhanced stability and traction.

Antilock Braking System:

Standard ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, front side-impact airbags, optional head protection system (HPS).

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Available CD player, AM/FM radio, optional premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon).

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system (Mk IV navigation computer).

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Keyless Entry:

Remote keyless entry and central locking.

On Board Computer:

BMW On-Board Computer providing fuel economy, range, and service interval information.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system; typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or as indicated by the vehicle's service indicator.

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Change:

Initial fill is long-life; replacement typically every 4-5 years or as recommended by CBS.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 100,000 miles for the M54 engine's original iridium plugs.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, meeting BMW LL-01 specification.

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 US quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent approved fluid); typically a lifetime fill, but manual recommends periodic checks/changes.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (e.g., BMW Synfluids).

Differential Fluid Front:

SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil.

Differential Fluid Rear:

SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil.

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW PSF-4.

Crankcase Ventilation System:

Failure of the CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system can lead to oil leaks, rough idle, and reduced performance.

Cooling System Components:

Plastic expansion tank and radiator can become brittle and crack. Water pump and thermostat failures are also common.

Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:

Rear main seal and oil pan gasket leaks are relatively common on higher mileage M54 engines.

Vanos System:

VANOS solenoids can fail, leading to rough idle and power loss, especially at low RPM.

Window Regulators:

Plastic components in the window regulator mechanisms can fail, causing windows to drop.

Headlight Alignment:

Headlight adjustment motors can fail, preventing proper aim.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics.

E46 Generation:

The E46 generation (1998-2006) represented a significant evolution for the 3 Series, known for its sharp handling, improved interior quality, and advanced technology for its time.

325Xi Introduction:

The 325xi model, featuring AWD, was introduced to provide enhanced all-weather capability while retaining the core 3 Series driving experience.

Production Period:

2001 model year production.

Manufacturing Plant:

Primarily produced in Germany (e.g., Dingolfing plant).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The E46 3 Series platform (including variants like the 325) was a perennial winner of Car and Driver's 10Best awards during its production run, lauded for its driving dynamics.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Generally received good to excellent reliability ratings from Consumer Reports, with specific areas noted for potential issues (as listed in known_issues).

Emissions Compliance:

Designed to meet EPA and CARB emissions standards for the 2001 model year.