🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

325Ci

Year:

2004

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code Variant:

M54B25

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2004 BMW 325Ci (E46) represents the pinnacle of BMW's compact luxury sport sedan and coupe offerings for that era, known for its sporty handling, refined interior, and potent inline-six engine. It competed directly with the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and Lexus IS300.

Competitive Analysis:

The E46 3 Series, particularly the 325Ci, was lauded for its driver engagement and balanced chassis, often considered superior to its direct competitors in terms of pure driving dynamics. The M54 engine offered a smooth power delivery and good fuel economy for its class.

Key Features:

Rear-wheel drive (standard), available xDrive all-wheel drive, sophisticated multi-link suspension, advanced electronic stability control (DSC), premium interior materials, powerful inline-six engines, optional Sport Package enhancing handling and aesthetics.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for the 2004 BMW 325Ci

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive digital service manuals)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (likely digital download with searchable interface)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, engine management (DME), fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, drivetrain, manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, driveshafts, differentials, suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS, DSC), electrical system, chassis electrical, body control module (BCM), lighting, climate control, infotainment, airbags, instrument cluster, power accessories, diagnostics, troubleshooting.

Procedures Included:

Scheduled maintenance, routine inspections, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, step-by-step repair instructions for all major components, component removal and installation, component testing, wiring diagrams, hydraulic schematics, torque specifications, special tool requirements, calibration procedures, preventative maintenance.

Technical Depth:

In-depth, from basic fluid changes and inspections to complete engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and body panel repairs. Covers diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their corresponding repair procedures.

Troubleshooting Guides Detail:

Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system fault finding, and component-specific diagnostic routines.

Wiring Diagrams Detail:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, ground points, signal paths, and component location diagrams.

Torque Specifications Detail:

Precise torque values for all fasteners, from engine components to suspension and chassis bolts, ensuring proper assembly and safety.

Special Tools Included:

Lists necessary BMW-specific tools and general automotive tools required for various repair and maintenance procedures.

Vin Decoder:

Likely includes guidance or information to decode the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for precise model and option identification.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary software format or PDF (details may vary by vendor)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital format implies screen viewing; printability depends on software features)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine:

M54B25 Inline 6-cylinder

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Horsepower:

184 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Induction:

Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME 7.2)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)

Engine Management System:

Digital Motor Electronics (DME) ME 7.2

Valvetrain:

Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

Cooling System Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with electric fan and radiator.

Oil Capacity:

6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag S5D 250G)

Optional Transmission:

5-Speed Steptronic Automatic (GM 5L40-E)

Transmission Features:

RWD or AWD, electronically controlled clutch actuation on some automatic models, driver-selectable modes (Sport/Comfort) on automatic.

Clutch Type Manual:

Hydraulically operated, single dry plate

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2760 mm (108.7 in)

Length:

4471 mm (176.0 in)

Width:

1739 mm (68.5 in)

Height:

1372 mm (54.0 in)

Curb Weight Manual:

1500 kg (3307 lbs)

Curb Weight Automatic:

1530 kg (3373 lbs)

Trunk Volume Coupe:

410 L (14.5 cu ft)

Standard Wheel Size:

17 x 7.5 inch alloy

Standard Tire Size:

225/45R17

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Wheel Offset:

ET47 (typical for front), ET47 (typical for rear)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Good (NHTSA data for similar E46 models)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Good (NHTSA data for similar E46 models)

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable (NHTSA data for similar E46 models)

Active Safety Features:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (ASR), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), optional Xenon headlights with auto-leveling.

Passive Safety Features:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, front head protection system (optional curtain airbags), front seatbelt pretensioners, crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell, ISOFIX child seat anchors.

Front Brakes:

Vented Discs (approx. 300mm)

Rear Brakes:

Solid Discs (approx. 300mm)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW Business CD or Professional CD/RDS, with optional CD changer and navigation system (Mk IV).

Audio Features:

AM/FM radio, CD player, optional Harman Kardon sound system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Park Distance Control (PDC) - front and rear, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights.

Connectivity Features:

On-board computer, optional Bluetooth mobile phone integration with voice control.

Convenience Features:

Power-adjustable front seats with driver memory, heated seats, power sunroof, xenon adaptive headlights.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable, typically indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system (approx. 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months)

Major Service Intervals:

Includes spark plugs, air filter, cabin filter, brake fluid flush (typically around 30,000-60,000 miles or 3-5 years)

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 approved synthetic oil, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (e.g., Pentosin MTF.94)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

BMW Approved ATF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF1)

Known Issues:

Oil filter housing gasket leaks, VANOS solenoid issues, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system clogs leading to oil consumption, cooling system component failures (water pump, thermostat, hoses), rear subframe mounting cracks, window regulator failures, ignition coil failures, ABS/DSC sensor faults.

Engine Oil Filter Part Number:

11 42 1 740 333 (example, verify for exact fitment)

Cabin Air Filter Part Number:

64 31 8 364 210 (example, verify for exact fitment)

Spark Plug Type:

NGK BKR6EQUP (Platinum)

Spark Plug Gap:

1.0 mm (0.04 in)

Differential Fluid Type:

BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G1 (SAF-XO) or equivalent, SAE 75W-90

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) has a long-standing reputation for producing premium, driver-focused vehicles, particularly known for their inline-six engines and 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy.

Model Evolution:

The E46 generation, introduced in 1998 (for the 1999 model year), was the fourth generation of the 3 Series. It succeeded the E36 and was replaced by the E90/E92 generation in 2006. The 325Ci model was introduced as a successor to the 323Ci, offering increased engine displacement and power.

Production Period:

2000-2006 (for the E46 coupe models, 325Ci specifically from 2001 MY onwards)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (main production), South Africa, Thailand, Egypt, Russia, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Ukraine, Vietnam

Model Designation Meaning:

3 Series represents BMW's compact executive car line. '3' denotes the series, '25' typically indicates the engine displacement (approx. 2.5L), and 'Ci' signifies the coupe body style.

2004 Model Year Updates:

The 2004 model year saw minor equipment revisions and potentially new exterior color options for the E46 lineup, continuing the chassis's successful run.