Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe (E46 generation)
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional workshops
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for balanced handling, rear-wheel drive dynamics, and responsive steering
Build Quality:
High interior fit and finish, robust construction typical of BMW
Powertrain Refinement:
Smooth and powerful inline-six engines
Covered Years:
1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
Page Count Estimate:
Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided, but consistent with comprehensive factory manuals)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (manual & automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension, steering, brakes (including ABS/DSC), driveline (rear-wheel drive)
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting, instruments, infotainment, comfort systems (HVAC), electronic control units (ECUs), wiring diagrams
Bodywork:
Body and frame, exterior components, interior trim, doors, windows, sunroof
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Repair:
Component replacement, engine overhauls, transmission repair, brake system repair, suspension and steering component replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams, diagnostic data
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (variable valve timing)
Horsepower:
184 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
230 Nm (170 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Length:
Approx. 4471 mm (176.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1739 mm (68.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs) depending on body style and transmission
NHTSA Front Impact:
Good (for driver and passenger) - tested by IIHS on earlier models, consistent with E46 platform
IIHS Side Impact:
Good - tested by IIHS on earlier models, consistent with E46 platform
Braking System:
4-wheel disc brakes (ventilated front, solid rear), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Stability Control:
Optional DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD (radio/cassette) or BMW Professional CD (more features, often with larger display). Optional navigation system available.
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional premium Hi-Fi system with more speakers and amplifier.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) for rear.
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface (may require separate adapter for newer phones).
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Indicator (VSI) system, typically recommended every 7,500-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 miles (for iridium spark plugs)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or as indicated by the VSI system.
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) approved synthetic oil, SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 is often recommended.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW recommends specific synthetic gear oil for manual transmissions; consult manual for exact specification (e.g., Pentosin MTF LT-2).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ZF LifeguardFluid 5 (or equivalent approved fluid for ZF 5HP19)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (BMW High Performance Brake Fluid)
Ccv System:
Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system failure leading to oil consumption, rough idle, and vacuum leaks.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; water pump and thermostat housing also common failure points.
Oil Pan Gasket:
Oil leaks from the oil pan gasket and rear main seal are common with age.
Window Regulators:
Plastic components in window regulators can fail, causing windows to drop.
Suspension Components:
Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers is typical for a vehicle of this age.
Brand Focus:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan and focus on performance and luxury.
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series replaced the E36 and was produced from 1998 (for the 1999 model year) to 2006.
325I Positioning:
The 325i served as a mid-range model in the E46 lineup, offering a balance of performance and comfort, positioned above the 320i/323i and below the 330i.
Production Period:
1999-2005 for the 325i model in North America.
Car And Driver Best:
Car and Driver magazine frequently listed the E46 3 Series (including models like the 325i and 330i) on its '10Best Cars' list during its production run, praising its handling and performance.
Overall Reputation:
Highly regarded for its driving dynamics, build quality, and sporty appeal, considered a benchmark in its class.
