Vehicle Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon.
Brand Philosophy:
BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, focusing on performance, handling, and driver engagement.
Key Competitors:
Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC, Infiniti G35x, Lexus IS250 AWD.
Performance Orientation:
The 325xi offers a balance of performance, luxury, and all-weather capability.
All Wheel Drive:
xDrive system provides enhanced traction and stability.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, exhaust, engine management (DME).
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission systems, including removal, installation, overhaul, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive system, transfer case, differentials (front and rear), drive shafts, axles, CV joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, anti-lock braking system (ABS), dynamic stability control (DSC), brake pad/rotor replacement, bleeding procedures.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, including battery, charging system, starter, lighting, power accessories, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, exterior trim, chassis and frame specifications.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant handling, component testing.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelt pre-tensioners, SRS module diagnosis.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing procedures.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including torque specifications and special tool requirements.
Overhaul:
Engine and transmission overhaul procedures.
Installation:
Component replacement and installation, including body panels, interior components, and accessories.
Wiring:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Expert level. Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and driveline component overhauls.
Diagnostic Tools Mention:
References BMW's proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA/D, DIS) and procedures for advanced diagnosis.
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (Sedan)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for applicable years)
Dynamic Stability Control:
Standard DSC with DTC (Dynamic Traction Control).
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard ABS.
All Wheel Drive:
Standard xDrive All-Wheel Drive system.
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, and head protection system (curtain airbags).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front belt pretensioners and force limiters.
System Name:
iDrive (First Generation).
Features:
Central control knob, optional navigation system, radio, CD player, optional Logic 7 audio system.
Standard Features:
ABS, DSC, Traction Control.
Optional Features:
Park Distance Control (PDC), Xenon Adaptive Headlights.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling.
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable, indicated by Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil, SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 45,000 miles or as indicated by CBS.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
NGK SILZKFR6A11 (or equivalent), typically every 60,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage (DOT 4 LV).
Coolant Flush:
Initial fill is often considered lifetime, but recommended replacement every 4-5 years or 100,000 miles for preventative maintenance. BMW Blue coolant.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S (BMW Part Number 81 22 9 407 765)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based).
Valve Cover Gasket Leaks:
Common due to aging rubber seals, leading to oil smell or visible leaks.
Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:
Another common leak point that requires significant labor to address.
Water Pump And Thermostat:
Plastic components can degrade, leading to leaks or failure, often replaced proactively around 100k miles.
Pcv Valve And Breather Hose:
Can become clogged or crack, leading to rough idle, oil consumption, or vacuum leaks.
Ccv System Failure:
Crankcase Ventilation system failure can cause various issues, including oil leaks and rough running.
Power Steering Pump:
Can develop leaks or noise over time.
X Drive Transfer Case Fluid:
Fluid should be changed according to a recommended schedule (e.g., every 60,000 miles) to prevent wear.
Heritage:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, performance-oriented luxury vehicles.
E90 Generation Introduction:
The E90 generation of the 3 Series, including the 325xi, debuted in 2006, succeeding the E46 generation.
Powertrain Changes:
The N52 engine represented a significant technological advancement over its predecessor.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced in Germany (e.g., Munich, Dingolfing).