Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, DIY enthusiasts
Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35
Vehicle Philosophy:
Sporty handling, refined interior, powerful inline-6 engine, rear-wheel-drive bias
Manual Advantage:
Provides detailed, manufacturer-level information to accurately diagnose and repair the vehicle.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system, engine management (DME)
Drivetrain:
Transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differential, axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS/DSC), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting, instrumentation, HVAC, infotainment, power accessories, diagnosis of electrical faults
Body:
Body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, glass, exterior trim, chassis components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements), lubrication, inspections
Repair:
Component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment for all major systems
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, fault code explanations
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, testing procedures for sensors and actuators, wiring diagrams
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to in-depth mechanical and electrical repairs
Diagnostics Scope:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including wiring diagrams, component testing, and troubleshooting sequences
Engine Code:
M54B30 (commonly found in 330i, but 325i used M54B25)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Horsepower:
184 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
235 Nm (173 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (approx.)
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-point injection (MPI)
Fuel Grade:
Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification) or equivalent
Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30 (BMW LL-01 specification recommended)
Dme Type:
Bosch Motronic ME7.2
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag GS5-39DZ)
Type:
5-Speed Automatic (Steptronic, GM A5S360R/GM 5L40-E)
Manual Gear Ratios:
1st: 4.23, 2nd: 2.52, 3rd: 1.67, 4th: 1.22, 5th: 1.00, Reverse: 3.72
Automatic Transmission Features:
Steptronic manual shifting mode
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF2)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Esso/Mobil ATF LT 71141 or equivalent
NHTSA Frontal Crash:
4 Stars (Driver), 4 Stars (Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, optional front side-impact airbags, optional head protection system (HPS)
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner front seatbelts, 3-point rear seatbelts
Head Unit:
BMW Business or Professional CD players, optional Navigation system (CCC).
Speakers:
Standard 6 or 10-speaker Hi-Fi audio system, optional Harman Kardon system.
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC)
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth integration (may require specific phone cradle).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, based on CBS (Condition Based Service) system or manual recommendations.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years (regardless of mileage)
Coolant Flush:
Every 4 years or 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
Spark Plugs:
At 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km), depending on type (e.g., long-life platinum/iridium)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW Power Steering Fluid
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank leaks, water pump failure, thermostat housing leaks (common due to age)
Engine:
CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failure leading to oil leaks and rough running, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid issues, oil pan gasket leaks.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings (inspect for play), strut mount failure, rear shock absorber leaks.
Electrical:
ABS/DSC module failure, window regulator failure, fuel pump failure, battery drain from parasitic draws.
Bmw Legacy:
Renowned for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' focusing on performance, engineering, and driver engagement.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) represented a significant evolution in BMW's compact executive segment, balancing sportiness with comfort.
325I Positioning:
The 325i served as a core model within the E46 lineup, offering a potent inline-6 engine as a step up from the 320i and 323i, but below the M3.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany ( utama), South Africa, Mexico, Thailand, Egypt
Car And Driver Iten:
Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times for the E46 generation, often citing its driving dynamics.
Jd Power Initial Quality:
Consistently ranked well in initial quality studies for its segment during its production run.
Automotive Journalism Acclaim:
Widely praised by automotive journalists for its handling, balance, and powerful inline-6 engine, establishing a benchmark for sports sedans.
