Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Target Audience:
Drivers seeking a balance of performance, luxury, and driving dynamics.
Key Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Infiniti G20
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, RWD platform, and engaging driving experience.
Engine Smoothness:
Inline-six engines known for their refinement and power delivery.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW high-quality interior materials and solid construction.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, component replacement, timing systems, lubrication
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, sensors, actuators, diagnostics
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shifting mechanisms, fluid service
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, valve body, planetary gears, control systems, fluid service
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, CV joints, differential, rear axle assembly
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, alignment
Steering:
Steering rack, power steering pump, steering column, linkages
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, ABS, EBD, brake discs, pads, calipers, bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Climate Control:
HVAC system, blower motor, refrigerant, actuators, diagnostics
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, interior trim, glass, structural components
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, SRS system diagnostics
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing all major mechanical and electrical components
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault diagnosis
Diagnostics:
OBD-II fault codes, diagnostic tool usage, sensor testing
Rebuilding Procedures:
Engine and transmission rebuilding specifications and steps
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (Driver/Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
4/5 Stars (Front/Rear Passenger)
Traction Control:
Standard (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control + Traction)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, based on CBS (Condition Based Service) or typical usage.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 100,000 miles (depending on plug type and condition).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 Synthetic (BMW LL-01 approved)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 US quarts (6.1 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48 or similar ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent like Pentosin ATF1)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (BMW approved specification)
Differential Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (BMW approved specification)
Coolant System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack; water pump failures (especially plastic impeller).
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing gasket are common leak points.
Suspension Components:
Control arm bushings, ball joints, and rear shock mounts can wear over time.
ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:
Sensors can fail, leading to ABS and traction control warning lights.
Window Regulators:
Plastic components in the window regulator mechanism can break.
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, emphasizing performance and driver engagement.
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 1998 for the 1999 model year, succeeding the E36.
325I Positioning:
The 325i served as a mid-range offering in the E46 lineup, slotting above the 323i and below the 328i (for 1999) and later the 330i.
Production Years E46:
1998-2006 (global)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Hauptwerk München, Dingolfing, Regensburg), South Africa, USA (Spartanburg)
