Market Position:
The BMW 3 Series (E30) of this era was a benchmark for sports sedans and coupes, prized for its driving dynamics and build quality.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, and various Japanese sports sedans, often lauded for superior handling.
Key Features:
Renowned for its rear-wheel-drive platform, balanced chassis, and the iconic 'M' division influence even on standard models.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional workshops working on the E30 325 models.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Full diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Electrical Systems:
Comprehensive coverage of all electrical components and wiring diagrams.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed mechanical repair procedures for the engine.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Complete repair and maintenance for manual and automatic transmissions and driveshafts.
Suspension And Steering:
In-depth coverage of suspension components, steering systems, and alignment.
Braking System:
Detailed procedures for brake system maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting, including ABS if equipped.
Body And Chassis:
Procedures for body repair, panel replacement, and chassis diagnostics.
HVAC System:
Repair and maintenance of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system.
Fuel And Exhaust Systems:
Repair and diagnosis of fuel delivery, injection, and exhaust components.
Cooling System:
Maintenance and repair of the engine cooling system, including radiators and water pumps.
Maintenance Schedules:
Detailed preventative maintenance schedules for various mileages and time intervals.
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine Management:
Includes detailed information on the Bosch Motronic engine management system.
Emission Control:
Covers emission control systems, including catalytic converter operation and diagnosis.
Instrumentation:
Details on dashboard instruments, warning lights, and their functions.
Lighting System:
Complete wiring diagrams and troubleshooting for exterior and interior lighting.
Interior Components:
Removal and installation procedures for interior trim and components.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid level checks.
Major Repairs:
Engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, clutch replacement, suspension component replacement.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing major components like alternators, starters, fuel pumps.
Adjustment Procedures:
Idle speed, valve lash (where applicable), and other critical adjustments.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical troubleshooting.
Print Quality:
High-resolution, clear text and diagrams suitable for printing.
Binding Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Searchability:
Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC, 12-valve
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Horsepower Gross Approx:
168 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque Gross Approx:
164 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm
Fuel System Type:
Bosch Motronic Fuel Injection (e.g., Motronic ML-1.3)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded Premium (91 Octane or higher)
Ignition System:
Distributorless ignition system (DIS) on later models, or distributor-based systems.
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 260/5)
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulic actuation.
Rear Differential:
Standard Limited Slip Differential (LSD) on many 325 models, with open differential as an option.
Wheelbase:
approx. 101.2 inches (2570 mm)
Length:
approx. 170.5 inches (4330 mm)
Width:
approx. 67.3 inches (1709 mm)
Height:
approx. 55.1 inches (1400 mm)
Curb Weight Approx:
2,900 - 3,100 lbs (1315 - 1406 kg), depending on body style and options.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 120 mm
Standard Wheel Size:
14-inch or 15-inch alloy wheels.
Standard Tire Size:
205/60VR14 or 205/55VR15
Safety Ratings Era:
Vehicles of this era typically did not have standardized crash test ratings like NHTSA or Euro NCAP.
Active Safety Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was optional on most 325 models, becoming more standard on later years.
Passive Safety Features:
Impact-absorbing steering column, reinforced door beams, front and rear crumple zones.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for front occupants, lap belts for rear.
Infotainment Features:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player was standard, with optional premium sound systems.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS was the primary electronic driver assistance feature available as an option.
Connectivity Features:
None by modern standards; primarily analog systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 30,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum).
Timing Belt Replacement:
The M20 engine uses a timing belt, typically recommended for replacement every 60,000 miles or 4 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW High Performance Synthetic 5W-30 or 5W-40, or equivalent API SG/SH rated oil.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. BMW recommends a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues Engine:
Cooling system component failure (radiator, hoses, water pump), idle control valve issues, head gasket leaks (less common than on 4-cyl), starter motor failure.
Known Issues Electrical:
Corroded ground points, failing fuel pump relays, instrument cluster failures, door lock actuator issues.
Known Issues Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, shock absorber degradation, trailing arm bushings (common E30 wear item).
Known Issues Body:
Rust in common areas like rocker panels, fender wells, battery tray, and sunroof drains.
Brand Heritage:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, high-performance vehicles with excellent engineering.
E30 Generation Introduction:
The E30 generation was introduced in 1982, succeeding the E21. The 325 model variant, featuring the larger M20 engine, arrived later in the E30's lifecycle.
325 Introduction Year:
The 325 badge typically referred to the 2.5-liter engine, introduced in Europe around 1985 and available in North America for the 1987 model year.
Production Period:
1987-1991 for the 325 variant in North America.
Production Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany.
