🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Trim:

325i

Model Year:

2002

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code Common:

M54B25

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2002 BMW 325i (E46) represented BMW's premium compact executive sedan, known for its driving dynamics, quality engineering, and luxurious appointments. This manual software targets owners and independent repair facilities seeking authoritative repair information.

Competitors At Time:

Competed directly with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and Lexus IS300, offering a sportier driving experience compared to some rivals.

Searchability:

Software format allows for quick keyword searches across all topics, significantly reducing time spent locating specific information compared to print manuals.

Interactivity:

Likely includes interactive diagrams, hyperlinked sections, and potentially video clips or animations for complex procedures.

Licensing:

Officially licensed, indicating content accuracy and adherence to BMW's proprietary service data.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Comprehensive mechanical and electrical systems for the 2002 BMW 325i (E46 chassis).

Specific Systems:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Electrical, Bodywork, Diagnostics.

Estimated Pages:

N/A (Software-based, dynamic content)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed procedures for maintenance, repair, and overhaul of the M54B25 engine, including cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition, and emission control systems.

Drivetrain:

Coverage for manual and automatic transmissions, clutch, driveshafts, differential, and axles.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, steering rack, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnostics, repair, replacement of pads, rotors, calipers, ABS system, DSC system.

Electrical Electronics:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, fuse and relay identification, DME (Digital Motor Electronics) diagnostics, body control module (BCM), comfort systems.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, climate control unit diagnostics.

Bodywork:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, trim removal and installation.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing procedures.

Repair Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, repair, and overhaul, including engine rebuild procedures.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized BMW tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth:

Advanced diagnostics and repair procedures suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed schematics and torque specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Proprietary Software / Executable

Quality:

N/A (Digital format, clarity depends on display)

Binding:

N/A (Software, not printed)

Paper:

N/A (Software, not printed)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6

Engine Code:

M54B25

Displacement:

2494 cc (2.5 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 75.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Valvetrain:

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

Horsepower:

189 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Bosch Motronic ME 7.2 ECU

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded (91 AKI or higher)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts)

Oil Capacity W Filter:

6.5 Liters (6.8 US Quarts)

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 (BMW Longlife-01 or LL-01 FE approved)

Spark Plugs:

Bosch Super Plus (e.g., FGR7DQP) or NGK Platinum/Iridium (e.g., PFR6G-11)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G)

Type:

5-Speed Automatic (Steptronic)

Features:

Manual mode selection, sport mode.

Fluid Type:

MTF LT-2 (Manual Transmission Fluid)

Fluid Type:

ATF LT 71141 (ZF LifeguardFluid5)

Fluid Type:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5 (BMW recommended)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4471 mm (176.0 in)

Width:

1739 mm (68.5 in)

Height:

1372 mm (54.0 in)

Wheelbase:

2760 mm (108.7 in)

Front Track:

1471 mm (57.9 in)

Rear Track:

1485 mm (58.5 in)

Curb Weight Manual:

1500 kg (3307 lbs)

Curb Weight Automatic:

1530 kg (3373 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 2000 kg (4409 lbs)

Trunk Volume:

410 Liters (14.5 cu ft)

Standard Wheel Size:

16-inch alloy

Optional Wheel Size:

17-inch alloy

Standard Tire Size:

205/55R16

Optional Tire Size:

225/45R17 (front), 245/40R17 (rear) for staggered setup

Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm

Center Bore:

72.5 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5 Stars

IIHS Front Small Overlap:

Good (for the E46 generation overall, specific 2002 tests may vary)

Traction Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

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

Seatbelts:

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

Chassis Design:

Advanced crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Business CD or Professional CD/Cassette with optional navigation (Business or Professional).

Display:

Central LCD display for climate control, radio, and navigation information.

Audio System:

Optional Harman Kardon audio system.

Parking Sensors:

Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) for front and rear.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Cellular:

Optional BMW Assist telematics system with cellular connectivity for emergency services and vehicle tracking (service may be discontinued).

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control with dual-zone temperature settings and cabin microfilter.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Service:

Typically indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system, often around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Flush:

BMW Longlife coolant typically lasts for 4-5 years or 50,000-60,000 miles. The manual will specify the exact interval for the BMW Blue coolant.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 60,000-100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs, depending on type and condition.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 (BMW Super Dot 4 recommended)

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent approved hydraulic fluid.

Ccv System:

Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system can clog, leading to oil leaks, rough idle, and increased oil consumption. Replacement of the CCV assembly and associated hoses is a common repair.

Oil Pan Gasket:

Oil pan gasket and valve cover gasket leaks are common due to age and heat cycling.

Cooling System:

Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Water pump failure (often plastic impeller) and thermostat housing leaks are also common.

Suspension Components:

Front control arm bushings (RTABs), ball joints, and sway bar links are wear items that can cause clunking noises and affect handling.

ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:

Front and rear ABS wheel speed sensors are prone to failure, leading to DSC and ABS warning lights.

Heater Core:

Heater core leaks are a known issue, often requiring dashboard removal for replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, has a long-standing reputation for producing high-performance luxury vehicles with an emphasis on driving dynamics ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').

E46 Generation:

The E46 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 1998 (for the 1999 model year) and replaced the E36. The 325i designation replaced the 323i for the 2001 model year with the introduction of the M54 engine.

E46 Facelift:

The E46 received a significant facelift (LCI) in 2001 for the 2002 model year, which included updated styling for headlights, taillights, bumpers, and interior refinements. The 325i was part of this updated lineup.

Production Years:

E46 3 Series: 1998-2006. 325i (M54): 2001-2005.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany, with production also occurring in South Africa, China, and Russia for local markets.

🏆 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 list during its production run, recognized for its exceptional handling and performance.

Ward'S Auto World 10 Best Engines:

The M54 engine family, including the M54B25 in the 325i, was frequently honored by Ward's AutoWorld for its smooth operation, power delivery, and efficiency.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Consumer Reports generally rated the E46 3 Series favorably for performance and handling, though reliability ratings could vary, often citing typical German luxury car maintenance costs and specific common issues (e.g., cooling system, CCV).