🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Variant:

325i

Production Year:

2002

Chassis Code:

E46

Market Segment:

Compact Executive Car

👋 Introduction

Bmw Brand Heritage:

BMW has a strong reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', emphasizing performance, luxury, and engineering.

E46 3 Series Positioning:

The E46 3 Series was a benchmark in the compact executive sedan and coupe segment, renowned for its driving dynamics and refined interior.

Key Competitors 2002:

Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35.

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and BMW owners seeking detailed technical information.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides authoritative, factory-level repair and maintenance data to save time and money on vehicle upkeep and repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Models Covered:

All 325i (E46) models

Engines Covered:

All engine variants for 325i

Transmissions Covered:

All transmission types (e.g., Manual, Automatic)

Trim Levels Covered:

All trim levels

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, exhaust.

Engine Management:

ECU diagnosis, sensors, actuators, ignition system, emission control systems.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox, drive shafts, shifter linkage, maintenance, repair.

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, valve body, transmission control unit (TCU), fluid service, rebuild procedures.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake fluid service, caliper, rotor, pad replacement.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, fluid service.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter, lighting, horn, power windows, central locking, fuses, relays.

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hoods, trunk, interior trim, rust prevention, jacking points.

HVAC:

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

Infotainment And Electronics:

Radio, navigation system (if equipped), speaker replacement, onboard computer diagnostics.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and flushes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-II).

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair.

Diagnostic Testing:

Testing of electrical circuits, sensors, actuators, and mechanical systems.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical wiring schematics for various systems.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive (covering everything from basic maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics).

Diagnostic Tools Required:

Specifies use of factory diagnostic tools (e.g., BMW ISTA/D, INPA) and generic OBD-II scanners.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners and components.

Special Tools:

Lists any specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text, allowing for quick information retrieval.

Resolution:

High-resolution scans ensuring legibility of diagrams and text.

Diagrams Clarity:

Clear, detailed illustrations, diagrams, and schematics.

Digital Format Notes:

Digital download, no physical binding. Accessible on various devices.

Digital Format Notes:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M54B30 (for 325i)

Engine Type:

3.0L Inline 6-Cylinder (I6), Naturally Aspirated

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 89.6 mm

Displacement:

2979 cc (3.0 liters)

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Horsepower Hp:

225 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque Lb-Ft:

214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch Motronic ME7.2

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Valve Train:

Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing), DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts)

Emission Control:

Secondary air injection, catalytic converters, oxygen sensors.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual Getrag 420G

Optional Transmission Type:

5-Speed Steptronic Automatic (GM 5L40-E)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic, single-plate dry clutch (for manual transmission)

Automatic Features:

Steptronic manual shifting mode.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW recommends specific synthetic gear oil (e.g., Pentosin MTF LT-2 or equivalent GL-4/GL-5 rated synthetic).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW recommends specific ATF fluid (e.g., Esso JWS 3309 / Mobil ATF 3309 / Pentosin ATF 1).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4471 mm (176.0 inches)

Width:

1739 mm (68.5 inches)

Height:

1392 mm (54.8 inches)

Wheelbase:

2725 mm (107.3 inches)

Curb Weight Manual:

Approx. 1470 kg (3240 lbs)

Curb Weight Automatic:

Approx. 1490 kg (3285 lbs)

Trunk Volume:

430 liters (15.2 cubic feet)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

5 Stars (for driver and passenger)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good (for vehicles with side airbags)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Dsc:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), includes traction control.

Brake Assist:

Standard Brake Assist.

Airbags:

Standard front airbags, optional front side airbags and head protection system (HPS) curtain airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard BMW Business CD stereo, optional BMW Professional CD radio with enhanced features.

Navigation:

Optional BMW Navigation System (MK III or MK IV navigation computer).

Speakers:

Standard 6-speaker system, optional 10-speaker Hi-Fi system.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Parking Assist:

Optional rear Park Distance Control (PDC).

Bluetooth:

Optional Bluetooth mobile phone integration (requiring specific BMW cradle or adapter).

Onboard Computer:

Standard OBC displaying fuel economy, range, average speed, etc.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Replacement:

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

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (e.g., long-life platinum/iridium).

Coolant Flush:

Recommended every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles.

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-40 viscosity.

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 liters (approx. 6.9 US quarts) with filter change.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) or DOT 4 Plus.

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol-based).

M54 Engine Common Issues:

PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system failure (leading to vacuum leaks), oil filter housing gasket leaks, VANOS solenoids, oil consumption.

E46 Chassis Common Issues:

Subframe mounting point cracks, cooling system components (water pump, thermostat, expansion tank), ABS/DSC sensor failures, window regulator issues, "death rattle" of the lower intake manifold support bracket.

Cooling System Part Numbers:

Water Pump: 11517527799, Thermostat: 11531437771, Expansion Tank: 17111437170 (typical part numbers, always verify).

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw History:

Founded in 1916, BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is a German multinational company that produces luxury vehicles and motorcycles. Known for its engineering prowess and sporty driving characteristics.

E46 Generation Introduction:

The E46 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 1998 for the 1999 model year, replacing the E36.

E46 Facelift:

The E46 received a significant facelift in 2001, which included updated styling for the headlights, taillights, front bumper, and interior enhancements.

325I Positioning In E46 Lineup:

The 325i typically sat above the 320i and 325xi, and below the 330i, offering a balance of performance and refinement.

E46 Production Years:

1998-2006

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), but also plants in the USA, South Africa, and China.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The E46 3 Series (including variants like the 325i) was a perennial recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best award throughout its production run, lauded for its driving dynamics.

Ward Automotive Top Engine:

The M54 engine family received recognition from Ward's AutoWorld as one of the best engines in the industry during its tenure.