Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon
Competitors 2002:
Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS300, Acura TL
Key Selling Points:
Performance, handling, build quality, rear-wheel-drive bias (even with AWD), premium interior.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned BMW handling, balanced chassis, responsive steering.
All Wheel Drive:
xDrive all-wheel-drive system providing enhanced traction and stability.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing.
Engine Management:
EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection), ignition system, sensors, actuators, ECU diagnostics, emissions control.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic and Manual transmission servicing, repair, removal/installation, and final drive/differential.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, shock absorbers, springs, bushings.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), disc brakes, pads, rotors, hydraulic system.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, power windows, central locking, fuses, relays.
Comfort Systems:
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), climate control, power seats, sunroof operation.
Bodywork:
Body panel repair, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim removal/installation.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plugs, ignition coils.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, common problems and solutions.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions with torque specifications, special tool requirements.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, sensor testing, component testing using diagnostic tools.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical troubleshooting.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Engine Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Horsepower:
184 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
175 lb-ft (237 Nm) @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (S<bos>-MFI)
Fuel Type Recommendation:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled, pressurized system with thermostat and fan.
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 250)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (Steptronic)
Drivetrain:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive (Permanent)
Gear Ratios:
Detailed ratios available in manual for both transmission types.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW LT-2 or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon approved fluid
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends specific gear oil for manual transmissions, typically GL-4 or GL-5, viscosity varies by temperature.
Length:
177.4 inches (4506 mm)
Width:
68.7 inches (1745 mm)
Height:
55.7 inches (1415 mm)
Wheelbase:
107.3 inches (2726 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3500-3600 lbs (1588-1633 kg), varies by configuration.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, consult vehicle data plate.
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 13.6 cu ft (385 Liters)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (for applicable models/years)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (for applicable models/years)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for applicable models/years)
Stability Control:
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), Traction Control (ASC+T)
Braking Assistance:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side airbags, available head protection airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Head Unit:
BMW Professional CD, available with optional navigation system (MK III/IV).
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio.
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear Park Distance Control (PDC).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Keyless Entry:
Standard remote keyless entry and central locking.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or as indicated by the Service Indicator (CBS - Condition Based Service).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) synthetic oil, SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 US quarts (6.2 Liters)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) brake fluid
Cooling System Failures:
Plastic coolant expansion tank, water pump, and thermostat housing are common failure points leading to leaks.
Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leaks:
Degradation of the oil filter housing gasket can lead to oil leaks.
Crankcase Ventilation System:
Clogged PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve and hoses can cause rough idle, oil consumption, and vacuum leaks.
Suspension Components:
Wear on control arm bushings and ball joints is common due to age and mileage.
Ignition Coils:
Misfires due to failing ignition coils are a known issue on the M54 engine.
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, performance-oriented luxury vehicles.
E46 Generation Introduction:
Introduced in 1998 (for model year 1999), the E46 represented a significant evolution in BMW's compact executive segment.
325Xi Introduction:
The 'xi' designation signifies all-wheel drive, introduced to broaden the 3 Series appeal, especially in markets with varied weather conditions.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (e.g., Dingolfing, Munich), and some assembly in South Africa.