🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

325

Model Variant:

325xi

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code 325Xi:

M54B30

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Premium Compact Executive Sedan and Wagon

Key Competitors:

Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Lexus IS300, Acura TL

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for BMW's signature rear-wheel-drive bias (even with xDrive), balanced chassis, and engaging handling.

Powertrain Options:

Smooth and powerful inline-six engines, available with xDrive all-wheel drive for enhanced traction.

Build Quality:

Typical BMW build quality with a focus on driver ergonomics and premium materials.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Model Years:

1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of pages

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of engine components, including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing systems, and lubrication.

Engine Management:

Diagnosis and repair of fuel injection, ignition, emissions control systems, sensors, actuators, and ECU troubleshooting.

Transmission Manual:

Service and repair procedures for manual transmissions (e.g., Getrag 420G), including clutch, gears, synchronizers, and shift mechanisms.

Transmission Automatic:

Service and repair procedures for automatic transmissions (e.g., ZF 5HP19), including torque converter, valve body, planetary gears, and electronic control.

Drivetrain AWD:

Specific repair and maintenance procedures for the xDrive all-wheel-drive system, including transfer case, front and rear differentials, and driveshafts.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension component diagnosis, replacement, and alignment procedures, including control arms, struts, shocks, springs, bushings, and sway bars.

Steering:

Power steering system repair, hydraulic pump, steering rack, tie rod ends, and steering column servicing.

Brakes:

Brake system service, including hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake calipers, rotors, pads, ABS system diagnosis and repair, and bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including wiring diagrams, component testing, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, and accessories.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel repair, interior trim removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and structural component information.

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning HVAC:

Diagnosis and repair of HVAC system components, including blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant recharge, and climate control modules.

Comfort And Convenience:

Service for power windows, locks, mirrors, seats, sunroof, and remote keyless entry systems.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, brake inspections, and tire rotations.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, including symptom-based diagnostics and fault code interpretation.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, replacement, and repair across all major vehicle systems.

Component Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for the complete rebuild of major components like engines and transmissions.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle circuits, aiding in troubleshooting and repair.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Precise measurements, clearances, torque specifications, and technical data required for accurate repairs.

Depth Of Coverage:

Factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostics Level:

Advanced diagnostic strategies, including scan tool data interpretation and electrical circuit analysis.

Rebuild Level:

Comprehensive instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including part specifications and machining tolerances.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format) is the most common format for such manuals, allowing for easy searching and printing.

Print Readability:

High-resolution scans ensuring clear text and legible diagrams for printing.

Binding Type:

Not applicable for digital download, but if printed, typically a spiral or comb binding for ease of use.

Paper Type:

Not applicable for digital download, but a factory manual would typically be printed on durable paper.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name 325Xi:

M54B30

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder

Displacement:

2979 cc (3.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 89.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Horsepower 325Xi:

225 hp @ 6000 rpm (US Spec)

Torque 325Xi:

214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (US Spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SFI) with Bosch Motronic ECU

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)

Cooling Type:

Pressurized Liquid Cooling System

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission 325Xi:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 420G)

Optional Transmission 325Xi:

5-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (ZF 5HP19)

AWD System:

BMW xDrive All-Wheel Drive System (Variable Torque Distribution)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 107.4 inches (2728 mm)

Length:

Approx. 177.0 inches (4496 mm)

Width:

Approx. 68.7 inches (1745 mm)

Height:

Approx. 56.0 inches (1422 mm)

Curb Weight 325Xi:

Approx. 3550 lbs (1610 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Varies by specific model and options, typically around 4600 lbs

Standard Wheel Size:

16-inch alloy (e.g., 7J x 16)

Optional Wheel Size:

17-inch alloy (e.g., 7.5J x 17 or 8J x 17)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm

Standard Tire Size:

205/55 R16

Optional Tire Size:

225/45 R17 or 245/40 R17

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Likely 5-star rating (based on E46 platform performance)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Likely 5-star rating (based on E46 platform performance)

IIHS Offset Front:

Likely 'Good' rating (based on E46 platform performance)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Standard Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) or Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional side airbags, and optional head protection system (HPS).

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis and safety cell design typical of BMW's safety engineering.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW Business CD or Professional CD/RDS radio, with optional navigation system (CCC generation for later models) and Harmon Kardon audio system.

Features Optional Nav:

Early navigation was often CRT-based or low-resolution LCD, with CD-ROM map updates. Later models saw improvements.

Standard Driver Aids:

ABS, Traction Control (ASC+T) or Stability Control (DSC).

Optional Driver Aids:

Park Distance Control (PDC), Xenon headlights (HID).

Connectivity Features:

Optional CD changer, potentially early Bluetooth integration (limited functionality), and basic trip computer.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable Service Interval Indicator (VSI) system, typically around 7,500-15,000 miles or as indicated by the car's computer based on driving conditions.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Recommended every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Flush:

BMW Long-Life Coolant typically recommended at 4 years/50,000 miles initially, then every 2 years/30,000 miles thereafter, or as per manual.

Spark Plug Replacement:

M54 engines typically use long-life spark plugs, often specified around 100,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically SAE 0W-40 or 5W-30.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change for M54B30.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue (G48) or Green (G48) Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Atf:

ZF LifeguardFluid 5 (e.g., Esso LT 71141) - critical to use the correct fluid.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Typically a GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity depending on ambient temperature (e.g., SAE 75W-90).

Differential Fluid:

Hypoid gear oil, e.g., SAE 75W-90, GL-5.

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW approved Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent.

Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leaks:

Common source of oil leaks due to aging rubber gaskets.

Crankcase Ventilation System Ccv:

CCV system can clog, leading to increased crankcase pressure and oil leaks, particularly from the oil pan gasket and valve cover gasket.

Cooling System Failures:

Plastic expansion tank, water pump, and thermostat housings are prone to cracking and failure over time.

ABSorbent Glass Mat Agm Battery Issues:

Early E46 models might have issues with battery registration after replacement, affecting alternator output and electrical systems.

Window Regulator Failure:

Plastic components in the window regulator mechanism can break.

Suspension Component Wear:

Control arm bushings, tie rod ends, and rear subframe bushings can wear, leading to clunking noises and imprecise handling.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, has a long history of producing performance-oriented vehicles with a focus on driving pleasure and engineering excellence.

E46 Generation:

The E46 generation of the 3 Series (1998-2006) succeeded the E36 and was a significant evolution, praised for its improved dynamics, refined interior, and advanced technology.

325Xi Introduction:

The 325xi variant, featuring the M54B30 engine and xDrive AWD, was introduced to offer enhanced traction and all-weather capability, expanding the appeal of the 3 Series.

Production Years E46:

1998-2006 (model years vary by market)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany (e.g., Dingolfing, Munich), with some assembly in other international locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E46 Awards:

The E46 3 Series generation received numerous accolades during its production run, including 'Car of the Year' awards and consistent praise from automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and refinement.

Motor Trend Car Of The Year:

While the E46 itself may not have won the overall MotorTrend Car of the Year, its design and engineering were highly regarded.

Automotive Engineer Society Awards:

The M54 engine series was frequently featured on Ward's 10 Best Engines list during its tenure.