🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

325i / 325is

Model Code:

E30

Year:

1988

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact executive sports sedan/coupe

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W201 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra XR4i

Performance Orientation:

Known for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive dynamics, and engaging driving experience.

Design:

Iconic E30 design, characterized by clean lines and a driver-focused cockpit.

Build Quality:

Reputation for solid German engineering and durable construction.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

2.5L M20 inline-six engine (2.5i and 2.5is variants)

Transmission Coverage:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual, ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic

Chassis Coverage:

Suspension, steering, brakes, body and frame

Electrical Coverage:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting

Total Pages:

Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory-style manuals)

Type:

Full Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print (implied by product description context for sales)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, valve train, timing belt/chain replacement and adjustment.

Engine Management:

Bosch Motronic (ME) fuel injection and ignition systems, sensors, actuators, troubleshooting, ECU diagnostics.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filter replacement.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications, bleeding procedures.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipework inspection and replacement.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch assembly, clutch master/slave cylinders, transmission fluid change, internal component overhaul (Getrag 260).

Transmission Automatic:

Transmission fluid change, filter replacement, torque converter, external adjustments (ZF 4HP22).

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, axle shafts, seals.

Suspension Front:

MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar, bushings, alignment specifications.

Suspension Rear:

Semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, coil springs, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering System:

Steering rack, tie rods, power steering pump, fluid, linkage, troubleshooting.

Brake System:

Front and rear disc brakes, calipers, pads, rotors, brake lines, master cylinder, ABS (if equipped), bleeding procedures, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, wipers, horn, fuse box, relays, ignition switch, power windows, central locking.

Body And Frame:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, hinges, locks, interior trim, glass replacement, rust repair considerations.

HVAC System:

Heater core, blower motor, AC system (if equipped), refrigerant, control mechanisms.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, differential fluid changes.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Engine Rebuild:

Complete engine overhaul instructions, including torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences.

Transmission Repair:

Detailed instructions for internal transmission repairs and adjustments for both manual and automatic transmissions.

Suspension Component Replacement:

Replacement of struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings, tie rods.

Brake System Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper servicing, brake bleeding, master cylinder replacement.

Electrical Component Testing:

Testing procedures for alternators, starters, ignition coils, sensors, and other electrical components using multimeters.

Wiring Diagram Interpretation:

Complete and detailed wiring diagrams for all vehicle electrical systems.

Body Repair Procedures:

Instructions for minor body repairs, panel alignment, and trim component replacement.

Technical Bulletins And Recalls:

Likely to include relevant service bulletins or recall information for the specific model year.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete overhaul and advanced diagnostics.

Detail Level:

Includes detailed diagrams, exploded views, torque specifications, clearances, and procedural steps.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Printed manual

Quality:

High-quality paper stock, clear printing of text and diagrams

Binding:

Likely perfect bound or saddle-stitched for durability

Paper:

Durable, possibly coated paper for longevity in a workshop environment

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M20B25

Engine Type:

Inline-six, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Horsepower:

168 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

164 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic fuel injection (Multi-point)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating typically 91+)

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1

Bore X Stroke:

84 mm x 75 mm

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition with knock sensor

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission

Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate hydraulic clutch (manual)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for specific BMW part numbers)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for specific BMW part numbers)

Final Drive Ratio:

Typically 3.73 for manual, 3.64 or 4.10 for automatic (varies by specific model/options)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2568 mm (101.1 in)

Length:

4340 mm (170.9 in)

Width:

1678 mm (66.1 in)

Height:

1380 mm (54.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1250-1350 kg (2755-2976 lbs), depending on body style and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Testing:

No official US NCAP ratings available for this specific year/model, but E30 generally considered robust.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on front wheels, sometimes rear as well.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seatbelts, two-point rear seatbelts

Body Structure:

Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

Factory AM/FM cassette stereo, often with premium sound options.

Speakers:

Multiple speaker configurations, including door, dash, and rear parcel shelf.

ABS:

Optional ABS system on front wheels.

None:

No modern connectivity features (Bluetooth, USB, etc.) as standard. Aftermarket options available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, using synthetic or high-quality conventional oil. Manual will specify.

Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed.

Fuel Filter:

Replace every 30,000 miles or as recommended.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000 miles (e.g., Bosch W8AC or equivalent). Manual will specify exact type.

Timing Belt:

The M20 engine uses a timing belt. Replacement interval typically around 60,000 miles or 4-5 years. Critical to follow manual. Part number example: 11 31 1 706 212

Engine Oil:

10W-40 or 15W-40 (synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended). Oil Capacity: 4.25 L (4.5 US qt) without filter, 4.5 L (4.75 US qt) with filter.

Coolant:

50/50 mix of BMW coolant or equivalent antifreeze and distilled water. Capacity: Approx. 7.5 L (8 US qt).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (low-viscosity). Capacity: Approx. 1 L (1 US qt).

Common Problems:

Coolant leaks (hose connections, radiator, water pump), valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, idle control valve issues, O2 sensor failure, sinking pedal in manual transmissions (clutch slave cylinder), aging rubber bushings, fuel distributor issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for building sporty, driver-oriented cars with excellent engineering.

E30 Introduction:

The E30 chassis was introduced in 1982, with the 325e and 325i models appearing in subsequent years, becoming a benchmark for the compact executive sports car.

325Is Variant:

The 'is' variant typically denoted a sportier package, often including aerodynamic enhancements, sport suspension, and limited-slip differential (LSD).

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (primarily Dingolfing and Munich)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

The E30 generation, including the 325 models, was widely praised by automotive journalists for its handling, performance, and build quality, earning numerous accolades during its production run.