Segment:
Premium Compact Executive Coupe
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe, Audi A4 Cabriolet, Lexus IS Convertible, Infiniti G35 Coupe
Vehicle Attributes:
Sporty handling, refined interior, strong straight-six engine, rear-wheel drive dynamics, convertible option
Manual Advantage:
Officially licensed, digital format for quick access and searchability, detailed technical information for DIY or professional use
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive service and repair for 2003 BMW 325Ci
Estimated Pages:
Over 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive digital manuals of this era)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable)
Powertrain:
Engine, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic), driveline, differential
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS and DSC), wheels, tires
Electrical:
Engine control modules (DME), body control modules (BCM), lighting, infotainment, comfort systems, diagnostic connectors and procedures, wiring diagrams
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, exterior trim, climate control system (HVAC)
Maintenance:
Routine inspections, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt replacement
Repair:
Component removal and installation, diagnostics, troubleshooting, component testing, system overhauls
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures for specific systems, testing of sensors and actuators
Depth:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, component-level repair instructions, specifications for torque values, clearances, and tolerances, complete rebuild procedures for major components
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder (I6)
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
82.0 mm x 78.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Horsepower:
184 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic ME7.x
Emissions Control:
Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, secondary air injection system
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual (SMG available as option)
Optional Transmission:
5-Speed Automatic Steptronic
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic Dual-Mass Flywheel Clutch Assembly
Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific BMW approved fluid type (e.g., ATF Dexron III for automatic, specialized gear oil for manual)
Length:
4471 mm (176.0 inches)
Width:
1739 mm (68.5 inches)
Height:
1372 mm (54.0 inches) - Coupe
Wheelbase:
2730 mm (107.5 inches)
Trunk Volume:
370 Liters (13.1 cu ft) - Coupe
Curb Weight:
1520 kg (3351 lbs) - Coupe Manual
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 1950 kg (4300 lbs)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models tested)
Traction Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard
Braking Assist:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard, Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, rollover protection system (for convertible)
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD or Professional CD/Radio systems, optional navigation (MK III/IV)
Audio System:
Standard 10-speaker HiFi system, optional Harman Kardon surround sound
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Assist:
Optional rear park distance control (PDC)
Auxiliary Input:
Optional auxiliary input jack (typically added via aftermarket adapter or specific Professional radios)
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free preparation
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12-15,000 km (based on Condition Based Service - CBS, or annually)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as per CBS indication
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (Bosch Super Plus)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved 0W-30 or 5W-30 synthetic oil. Capacity: Approx. 6.5 Liters (with filter).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV)
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW PSF Part Number 81.22 9 400 680 or equivalent hydraulic fluid
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) - 50/50 mix with distilled water
Common Problems:
Cracked PCV valve hoses, VANOS system issues (rattles, leaks), cooling system leaks (water pump, hoses, expansion tank), oil filter housing gasket leaks, window regulator failures, subframe cracking (rare but serious), CCV system failures leading to oil consumption.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly inspect for oil leaks, especially around the oil filter housing and valve cover. Listen for VANOS rattle on startup. Check cooling system hoses and expansion tank for brittle plastic or leaks. Address subframe mounting point integrity during inspections.
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, emphasizing performance, handling, and driver engagement.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) represented a significant evolution in BMW's 3 Series, balancing sportiness with comfort and technology.
325Ci Positioning:
The 325Ci served as the intermediate engine option in the coupe and convertible lineup, bridging the gap between the 323Ci (later 325Ci in some markets) and the higher-performance 330Ci.
Production Years E46:
1998-2006
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Main), South Africa, Thailand, Russia, India, China
