Target Audience:
BMW owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, enthusiasts.
Advantage:
Official licensing ensures the highest level of accuracy and completeness compared to aftermarket manuals.
Accessibility:
Instant download provides immediate access to critical repair information.
Searchability:
Software format typically offers powerful search capabilities for quick information retrieval.
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Management, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System
Drivetrain:
Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Driveline Components (Driveshafts, Differentials)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS, DSC), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Body Electrical, Engine Electrical, Lighting, Instrument Cluster, HVAC Controls, Infotainment Systems, DME (Digital Motor Electronics) and EWS (Electronic Immobilizer) Systems
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Convertible Top (if applicable)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Top-offs, Belt & Hose Inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Flowcharts, Fault Code Interpretation (OBD-II), Component Testing Procedures
Repair:
Component Removal & Installation, Reassembly Procedures, Torque Specifications, Adjustment Procedures
Special Tools:
Identification of BMW-specific tools required for various procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostic troubleshooting.
Accuracy:
Official BMW data ensures factory accuracy.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
81.0 mm x 80.9 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valve Train:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower Output:
184 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Output:
175 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SMI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Electronic Ignition (DIS) with coil-on-plug design
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
5-speed STEPTRONIC Automatic Transmission
Automatic Features:
Driver-selectable modes (Sport/Comfort), Manual shift mode (STEPTRONIC)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF-LT-1 or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specs)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specs)
Length:
approx. 177.5 inches (4509 mm)
Width:
approx. 68.5 inches (1740 mm)
Height:
approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm)
Wheelbase:
approx. 107.4 inches (2728 mm)
Curb Weight:
approx. 3350 lbs (1520 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to VIN sticker or manual
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for driver and passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
4-Star (front and rear passengers)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver & passenger), Side-impact airbags (front seats), Optional Head Protection System (HPS)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD or Professional CD/RDS radio, with optional CD changer and navigation system.
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear Park Distance Control (PDC).
Telematics:
Optional BMW Assist with telematics and emergency services.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, based on BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system or indicated by the vehicle's service reminder.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., Long-Life Iridium)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30. Consult manual for specific viscosity recommendations.
Coolant Type:
BMW Antifreeze/Coolant, blue color, ethylene glycol-based (G48 specification)
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (G002000 or similar)
Cooling System:
Plastic cooling system components (expansion tank, water pump, thermostat housing) can become brittle and leak.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system are common leak points.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, sway bar links, and front strut mounts can lead to noise and poor handling.
Ignition System:
Ignition coils and spark plugs can fail prematurely, causing misfires.
Brand Philosophy:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is renowned for its focus on 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', emphasizing performance, luxury, and engineering innovation.
Generation Code:
E46 is the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series, produced from 1998 to 2006.
Positioning:
The 325i represented a balance of performance and luxury within the E46 lineup, slotting above the 320i and below the 330i.
Production Years Model:
2001-2005 (for the 325i designation in North America)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA
