🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

325xi

Model Year:

2001

Product Name:

BMW 325 325xi 2001 Factory Service Repair Manual Download PDF

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code:

M54B25

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for BMW's signature 'Ultimate Driving Machine' handling, responsive steering, and balanced chassis.

Powertrain:

Smooth and potent inline-six engine, available with all-wheel drive for enhanced traction.

Interior Quality:

High-quality materials, driver-focused cockpit, and comfortable seating.

📋 Manual Details

Region:

Global (primarily North America)

Pages:

Hundreds (specific count varies by edition, typically 2000+ for full factory manuals)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, component testing, diagnostic procedures, timing, seals, gaskets, lubrication, cooling system

Engine Management Electronic:

ECU diagnostics, sensor testing, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, DME (Digital Motor Electronics) troubleshooting

Transmission Automatic:

Steptronic transmission (GA6HP19Z), fluid service, torque converter, valve body, electronic controls, rebuild procedures

Transmission Manual:

6-speed manual transmission (Getrag SG187), clutch service, gearbox overhaul, shift mechanism

Drivetrain AWD:

xDrive all-wheel drive system, front axle, rear axle, differentials, transfer case, driveshafts, CV joints

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension (MacPherson strut front, multi-link rear), control arms, bushings, shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bars, alignment specifications

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake fluid specifications, caliper service, rotor replacement, bleeding procedures

Steering:

Hydraulic power steering, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, power steering fluid specifications

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting system, accessory circuits, CAN bus communication

Body Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, seats, airbags, climate control system (HVAC), power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors)

Body Exterior:

Bumpers, fenders, grille, headlights, taillights, glass, sunroof, body sealing

Climate Control:

AC system, refrigerant types, compressor, evaporator, condenser, heater core, blower motor, HVAC control module

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt pre-tensioners, occupant restraint system diagnostics

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, cabin air filter replacement, transmission fluid change

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex faults, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), flowcharts

Repair Procedures:

Detailed instructions for component replacement, assembly, and disassembly of all major systems

Installation:

Guidance for installing optional equipment and accessories

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems

Depth:

Expert level, covering complete vehicle diagnostics, repair, and rebuilding of major components.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

High-resolution PDF with searchable text and bookmark navigation for easy access to sections.

Quality:

Printable at home or professionally, allowing for a physical copy of the entire manual or specific pages.

Recommended Binding:

Comb binding or spiral binding for lay-flat usability in a workshop environment.

Recommended Paper:

Durable, glossy paper for printed versions to withstand workshop conditions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

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

Horsepower:

184 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

230 Nm (169 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 type)

Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 approved)

Oil Capacity With Filter:

6.5 Liters (6.9 US quarts)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual (Getrag SG187) or 5-speed Automatic (Steptronic GA6HP19Z)

Type:

5-speed Automatic with Steptronic manual shifting mode

Drivetrain:

xDrive All-Wheel Drive (Standard on 325xi)

Fluid Type:

BMW ATF LT71141 (Dexron III is NOT a suitable substitute)

Capacity:

Approximately 8.0 Liters (8.5 US quarts) for complete refill

Fluid Type:

SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil

Capacity:

Approximately 1.7 Liters (1.8 US quarts)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4471 mm (176.0 inches)

Width:

1739 mm (68.5 inches)

Height:

1415 mm (55.7 inches)

Wheelbase:

2760 mm (108.7 inches)

Curb Weight Xi:

Approx. 1590 kg (3505 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 2050 kg (4519 lbs)

Trunk Volume:

410 Liters (14.5 cu ft)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120

Standard Tire Size:

205/55R16 (xi models often came with larger wheels)

Optional Tire Sizes:

225/45R17, 225/40R18

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5 Stars (Driver and Passenger, tested for E46 platform)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for similar E46 models)

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard on xi models

Traction Control:

Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T) or Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)

Antilock Brakes:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, side-impact airbags (front doors), optional head airbags (curtain)

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD/RDS, optional navigation system (CCC generation).

Audio System:

Optional Harman Kardon premium sound system.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Telematics:

Optional BMW Assist with telematics services.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable Service Interval (Condition Based Service - CBS), typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.

Engine Oil Filter:

BMW Part No. 11421469034 (Mann-Filter HU816x or equivalent)

Engine Air Filter:

BMW Part No. 13717514812 (Mann-Filter C35154 or equivalent)

Cabin Air Filter:

BMW Part No. 64318367476 (Mann-Filter CU2531 or equivalent)

Spark Plugs:

NGK BKR6EQUP (BMW Part No. 12120030547) - Inspect every 60,000 miles, replace as needed or at 100,000 miles.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Flush:

Every 4 years or 100,000 miles (for BMW Blue coolant).

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid (BMW Part No. 83290429576)

Common Issues E46:

Cracked plastic coolant expansion tanks, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) seal wear, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), ignition coil failure, mass airflow sensor (MAF) issues, ABS/DSC sensor failures, subframe cracking (rare but critical).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Philosophy:

BMW is synonymous with performance, luxury, and engineering excellence, often referred to as 'The Ultimate Driving Machine'.

Platform:

E46 generation, which replaced the E36 and was produced from 1998 to 2006. The 325xi variant was introduced as part of this generation.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (primarily Dingolfing and Munich)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Awards:

Car and Driver 10Best list (multiple times for the E46 platform).

Ws Rating:

Excellent (for build quality, driving dynamics, and longevity when properly maintained).