🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3-Series (E30)

Specific Model Variant:

325i

Product Name:

BMW 3-Series (E30) 325i 1987 -1991 Full Service Repair Manual

Generation Code:

E30

Model Years Covered:

1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991

👋 Introduction

Bmw E30 Market Segment:

Compact executive sports sedan/coupe

Bmw E30 Reputation:

Renowned for its driving dynamics, build quality, and classic BMW styling

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra XR4i

Driving Experience:

Excellent handling, responsive steering, balanced chassis

Engine Characteristics:

Smooth and torquey M20 inline-six engine

Build Quality:

Typical BMW solid construction and attention to detail

Time Saving:

Guaranteed to save precious time through clear instructions and organized information

Ease Of Use:

Easy-to-read text sections with top-quality diagrams and instructions

Accessibility:

Accessible for both DIY owners and experienced mechanics

📋 Manual Details

Manual Scope:

Complete Service and Repair

Target Audience:

Do-it-yourself enthusiasts and professional mechanics

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific publisher, but professional manuals typically exceed 800 pages for this model

Manual Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul of the M20 inline-six engine (including specific variants for 325i)

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, tank

Ignition System:

Ignition coils, distributor, spark plugs, timing, Motronic control

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, muffler, piping

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, fluid specifications, and clutch replacement

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, axle shafts

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, bushings, alignment specifications

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), brake pads, rotors, calipers, master cylinder, ABS (if equipped), bleeding procedures

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams

Engine Management System:

Bosch Motronic M1.3, sensor diagnostics, ECU troubleshooting

Climate Control:

HVAC system, blower motor, A/C system components, heater core

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, frame, structural components, rust repair considerations

Interior:

Seat removal, dashboard components, trim panels, headliner

Paint And Bodywork:

Information on refinishing and minor body repairs

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair

Rebuilds:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures

Adjustment:

Valve adjustments, idle speed adjustments, timing adjustments

Diagnosis:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and sensor testing procedures

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls

Diagrams And Illustrations:

High-quality exploded view diagrams and detailed illustrations

Wiring Diagrams:

Full electrical system wiring diagrams

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Printability:

Full Printable

Zoom Functionality:

Zoom IN/OUT enabled

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for extraction if zipped)

Operating System Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M20B25

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

2.5 liters (2494 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 75.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1

Horsepower:

168 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

225 Nm (166 lb-ft) @ 4300 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic M1.3 Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating typically 91 RON or higher recommended)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (e.g., BMW Blue or equivalent)

Engine Oil Grade:

SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 (depending on climate and manufacturer recommendations)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.25 liters (4.5 US quarts) with filter change

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission

Transmission Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission

Manual Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

Manual Transmission Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 API GL-4 gear oil

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or III (check specific manual for precise BMW specification)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2568 mm (101.1 inches)

Length:

4340 mm (170.9 inches)

Width:

1674 mm (65.9 inches)

Height:

1380 mm (54.3 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1240-1320 kg (2734-2910 lbs), depending on transmission and equipment

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 1700 kg (3748 lbs)

Standard Wheel Size:

14-inch or 15-inch alloy wheels

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Standard Tire Size:

195/65R14 or 205/55R15 (depending on trim/options)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Performance:

E30 chassis generally considered safe for its era, but lacks modern advanced safety features. Specific NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings for these years may not be readily available in modern databases but were evaluated based on contemporary standards.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts

Head Restraints:

Front and rear head restraints

Chassis Design:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted cassette player with optional CD changer, basic AM/FM radio.

Instrument Cluster:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and coolant temperature. Check control panel for warning lights.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system

Phone Integration:

N/A (No factory integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) using appropriate spark plug type.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years to maintain system performance.

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or Dexron II/III equivalent

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific requirement)

Common Issues:

Cracked dashboard, failing heater core O-rings, fuel injector O-ring leaks, idle control valve issues, coolant expansion tank cracks, front control arm bushings, rear trailing arm bushings, differential mounts, door seal leaks, window regulator failures, sunroof drain blockages.

Engine Issues:

M20 engines can suffer from head gasket failures if overheated, oil leaks from various seals (camshaft seal, front crank seal), and potential for rod bearing wear at high mileage.

Electrical Issues:

Corroded grounds, aging wiring harnesses, fuel pump relays, and alternator failures can occur.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Brand Philosophy:

Sheer Driving Pleasure, focus on performance, engineering, and driver engagement

E30 Introduction:

Introduced in 1982, the E30 replaced the successful E21 3-Series.

E30 Variants:

Offered in sedan (4-door), coupe (2-door), convertible, and estate (Touring) body styles. The 325i represented the higher-performance, fuel-injected six-cylinder variant.

E30 Facelift:

The E30 received a significant facelift in 1987, introducing revised bumpers, aerodynamic improvements, and updated interior features, which this manual covers.

Production Period:

1982-1994 (global production for E30 platform)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany, but also South Africa and other locations

E30 Collectibility:

Highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors for its classic styling and driving experience.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Reputation:

The E30 generation is widely considered one of BMW's most iconic and beloved models, praised for its driving dynamics and timeless design.

Sporting Heritage:

The E30 platform was successful in various motorsport disciplines, including touring car racing (e.g., DTM) and rallying.