Segment Positioning:
Compact executive sedan, known for sporty handling and premium feel
Key Competitors 1997:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus ES300, Acura TL
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balance, rear-wheel-drive chassis, and driver-focused cockpit
Build Quality:
High-quality materials and robust construction characteristic of BMW
Powertrain Refinement:
Smooth and responsive inline-six engine
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, lubrication system, engine management (DME)
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, transmission (manual and automatic), driveshaft, differential, axles
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instruments, control modules, wiring diagrams, body electronics, HVAC controls
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, glass, seats, trim, safety systems (airbags)
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation
Installation Procedures:
Component replacement, adjustment procedures (e.g., clutch adjustment)
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete component overhaul and diagnostics
Diagnostic Capability:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, including use of specialized tools and testing equipment
Special Tool Requirements:
Identification and usage instructions for BMW-specific special tools
Printability:
Printable in its entirety or select pages
Document Resolution:
High-resolution for clear readability (implied for factory manuals)
Binding Type For Printed:
Not applicable for download (if printed, typically comb-bound or spiral-bound for usability)
Paper Type For Printed:
Not applicable for download (if printed, typically high-quality paper suitable for workshop environments)
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24-valve
Engine Code:
M50B25TU (or M52B25 for later 1997 models)
Displacement:
2494 cc (2.5 Liters)
Horsepower:
189 hp @ 5900 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly based on market and specific engine variant)
Torque:
245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 4200 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Injection:
Bosch Motronic M5.2 sequential fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating typically 91 RON or higher recommended)
Engine Control Unit:
DME (Digital Motor Electronics)
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed manual (Getrag S5D 250G)
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22 EH)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic control, Sport mode
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Castrol TAF-X 75W-90 GL-4)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT 71141 (or Dexron III/Mercon equivalent for older specs)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
4 Stars (Driver), 4 Stars (Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Acceptable (for models equipped with side airbags, if available)
ABS:
Standard (Bosch ABS III)
Traction Control:
Optional (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control and Traction)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Optional BMW Business CD or Professional RDS CD/cassette system with up to 10 speakers.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system (early generation).
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional depending on trim level.
Parking Sensors:
Not typically available or a very early aftermarket option.
Bluetooth Connectivity:
Not available from factory.
Oil Change Interval:
Approximately 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 15,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Around 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for standard spark plugs.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (50,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil, meeting BMW LL-98 specifications.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) or DOT 4 Plus
Common Issues Engine:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), VANOS unit noise/failure, cooling system leaks (water pump, thermostat, hoses), oil separator crankcase ventilation (CCV) system clogging.
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings (bushings often fail), strut mount degradation, rear shock absorber leaks.
Common Issues Electrical:
ABS sensor failure, instrument cluster pixelation, window regulator failure, blower motor resistor failure.
Common Issues Body:
Rust (especially on fender liners, rocker panels, and around windows), headliner sagging.
Bmw Heritage:
Founded in 1916, renowned for producing high-performance luxury vehicles with a focus on driving pleasure.
E36 Generation:
The E36 generation (1990-2000) represented a significant evolution in BMW's 3 Series, featuring a more modern design, improved aerodynamics, and enhanced safety and comfort features.
325I Positioning Within E36:
The 325i was a mid-range model within the E36 lineup, offering a balance of performance and luxury, positioned below the M3 and above models like the 320i or 318i.
Production Years For E36 325I Sedan:
1991-1995 (pre-facelift), 1996-1998 (facelifted, with M52 engine for some markets).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary assembly in Germany (Dingolfing, Regensburg), with some production in other global facilities.
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The E36 3 Series, including variants like the 325i, was frequently recognized on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production run.
Automotive Journalism Praise:
Widely praised by automotive journalists for its exceptional chassis dynamics, steering feedback, and overall driving engagement.
