Positioning:
The BMW 3 Series (E36) was a dominant player in the premium compact executive segment, known for its sporty handling, refined interiors, and strong performance.
Competitors:
Competed against the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, and Alfa Romeo 155 of its era.
Vehicle Highlights:
Excellent chassis dynamics, rear-wheel drive platform, high-quality interior materials, robust engineering, driver-focused cockpit.
Value Proposition:
An essential resource for owners and independent mechanics seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 1996 BMW 325i, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, tuning, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission removal, overhaul, fluid service, diagnostic procedures.
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differentials, CV joints, wheel bearings, axle shafts.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS system diagnosis and repair, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, rotor/pad replacement.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack, tie rods, power steering pump.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems, power windows, power locks, instrument cluster, ECUs, fuses, relays.
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk lid, glass replacement, body repair.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant service, component replacement.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnosis, specific component testing.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, component disassembly and reassembly.
Installation:
Instructions for installing replacement parts and accessories.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic DIY maintenance to in-depth mechanical and electrical repairs.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves (M50B25TU)
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Horsepower:
189 hp @ 5900 rpm
Torque:
236 Nm (174 lb-ft) @ 4200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic 3.3)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane)
Coolant Type:
BMW Premium Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent
Oil Capacity With Filter:
6.5 Liters (approx. 6.9 US Quarts)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (API SJ or higher)
Type:
Getrag 260/5 5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission
Manual Fluid:
MTF LT-2 or Pentosin MTF-2 (Check manual for specific part number)
Automatic Fluid:
BMW ATF LT 71141 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF1)
Rear Differential Fluid:
Hypoid gear oil SAE 75W-90 GL-5 (Check manual for specific BMW spec)
NHTSA Driver Frontal Impact:
Not widely published for this specific year/model in a comparable format to modern standards, but generally considered safe for its era.
IIHS Crash Test:
Acceptable in frontal offset tests for its time.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Bavarian Radio (Bavaria C, Bavaria C III) with cassette player and optional CD changer. Often featured premium sound systems by brands like Harman Kardon.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (IHKA - Integrated Automatic Climate Control).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Phone Integration:
Optional BMW car phone preparation kits.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil used).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (BMW recommends their own brand or equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid:
CHF 11S (Pentosin, green fluid) or BMW specified hydraulic fluid.
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank, water pump, and thermostat housing can become brittle and crack, leading to leaks. Radiator can also develop leaks over time.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers are common. Subframe mounting points can crack due to stress.
Electrical:
ABS sensors, MAF sensor, ignition coils, and door lock actuators are common failure points. Wiring harness issues can occur with age.
Engine:
VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system can develop issues, leading to rough idle or loss of power. Oil pan gaskets and valve cover gaskets can leak.
Interior:
Headliner sagging, cracked dashboard plastic, and worn seat bolsters are common interior issues.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-centric, performance-oriented luxury vehicles with a focus on engineering excellence.
E36 Generation:
The E36 generation (1991-1999) represented a significant modernization of the 3 Series, offering improved chassis rigidity, advanced suspension, and a more aerodynamic design compared to its E30 predecessor.
325I Positioning:
The 325i was a popular mid-range model within the E36 lineup, offering a balance of performance and luxury before the introduction of the M3.
Production Period:
1990-1999 (E36 generation), 1991-1995 for M50B25 engine in 325i before 1996 update (TU engine).
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), Austria, South Africa, Mexico.
