🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

325i / 325is

Year:

1985

Chassis Code:

E30

Engine Code Primary:

M20B25

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW 325i/is (E30) was positioned as a sporty, premium compact executive car, known for its engaging driving dynamics, build quality, and performance, a significant step up from mass-market sedans of its era.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo Milano, Volvo 240, and some higher trims of American sedans.

Distinguishing Features:

Inline-six engine, RWD, excellent chassis balance, driver-focused interior, distinctive E30 styling, sporty handling, optional M-Technic suspension and aerodynamic packages.

Value Proposition:

Essential for owners of these iconic BMWs to perform proper maintenance and repairs, preserving their performance and value. Covers the specific nuances of the M20 engine and E30 platform.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, based on description)

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 800-1200 pages (typical for comprehensive E30 manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of M20B25 engine components including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, camshaft, valves, timing system, and lubrication system.

Engine Management And Fuel:

Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system diagnosis, repair, component testing (injectors, fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator), air flow meter, throttle body, ECU diagnosis, ignition system (distributor, coils, spark plugs, timing). Carburetor variants for specific markets if applicable.

Transmission Manual:

Disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission, clutch system (clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing), flywheel, shift linkage.

Transmission Automatic:

Diagnosis and repair of ZF 4HP22 automatic transmission, torque converter, valve body, transmission control, fluid and filter changes.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive system, driveshaft, U-joints, differential (open differential specifications, lubricant type), axles, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components: struts, shock absorbers, coil springs, control arms, bushings, ball joints, sway bars, steering knuckles, wheel bearings. Alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack, power steering pump, fluid type and capacity, steering column, tie rods, steering linkage.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes (vented front discs on 325i/is), brake calipers, rotors, pads, brake lines, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system diagnosis (if equipped), parking brake system.

Electrical System:

Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layout, component testing, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), instrumentation, dashboard warning lights, power windows, mirrors, central locking.

Body And Interior:

Exterior panel repair, door mechanisms, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass replacement, interior trim, seat removal and installation, headliner, dashboard removal.

Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning HVAC:

HVAC system diagnosis, blower motor, heater core, evaporator core, refrigerant charging, A/C compressor, climate control panel operation.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, fuel, air), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, power steering fluid changes, transmission fluid and filter service, differential fluid change.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts for common starting, running, and electrical issues. Symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system overhauls, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.

Component Rebuilds:

Detailed instructions for rebuilding specific components such as starter motors, alternators, water pumps, fuel injectors.

Specifications And Torques:

Essential torque values for critical fasteners, engine specifications, bearing clearances, timing marks, fluid capacities, and pressures.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Likely a searchable PDF document for easy navigation and printing of specific sections.

Quality:

Professional quality scans or original typesetting, intended for clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 75.0 mm

Horsepower:

170 hp @ 5800 rpm (U.S. spec)

Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (U.S. spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Ignition Type:

Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent G48 ethylene glycol-based coolant)

Oil Capacity:

5.5 Liters (5.8 US Quarts) with filter change

Oil Specification:

API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 (depending on climate and manufacturer recommendation)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission

Manual Clutch:

Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch

Automatic Features:

Lock-up torque converter, sport/economy mode selection

Manual Gearbox Oil:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III (or equivalent ATF fluid, check manual for exact spec)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2593 mm (102.0 inches)

Length:

4325 mm (170.3 inches)

Width:

1674 mm (65.9 inches)

Height:

1365 mm (53.7 inches)

Curb Weight Manual:

Approx. 1350 kg (2976 lbs)

Curb Weight Automatic:

Approx. 1370 kg (3019 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1815 kg (3991 lbs)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm

Tire Size Standard:

205/55VR14 (for 325i/is with standard wheels)

Wheel Size Standard:

14 x 6.0 inch

Optional Wheel Size:

15 x 6.5 inch ('Bottle Cap' wheels often optional/M-Sport)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

While NHTSA/IIHS ratings for 1985 are less comprehensive than today, the E30 chassis was engineered with a strong safety cell and crumple zones for its era. Documentation of specific crash test scores for this model may be limited.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available, typically on the rear wheels or all four, depending on the specific vehicle configuration.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, two-point rear seatbelts.

Body Structure:

Reinforced passenger compartment, deformable front and rear sections.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette player, often with upgraded speaker options or aftermarket replacements common.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control (ACC) on some models, using rotary dials or push buttons.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system.

Original Connectivity:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports from the factory. Aftermarket head unit upgrades are very common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Recommended every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific recommendation based on driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, platinum/iridium plugs may last longer.

Coolant Flush:

Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check specific manual)

Power Steering Fluid Type:

ATF Dexron II or III (check manual for exact specification)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts)

Engine Oil Leaks:

Common leaks from oil pan gasket, valve cover gasket, front and rear main seals due to age and material degradation.

Cooling System:

Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Water pumps and thermostats can fail with age.

Fuel System:

Fuel accumulators and fuel pressure regulators can fail. Injector seals can degrade. Fuel pump can become weak.

Suspension Bushings:

Rubber bushings in control arms, sway bars, and subframes degrade over time, leading to sloppy handling and noise.

Electrical Connectors:

Corrosion in electrical connectors, particularly in the engine bay and under the dashboard, can cause intermittent issues.

Idle Control Valve:

The idle control valve can get gummed up, leading to rough or unstable idling.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, sporty sedans and coupes with excellent engineering and performance. The 3 Series is its most iconic and successful line.

E30 Generation:

The E30 generation (1982-1994) was the second generation of the 3 Series, significantly evolving from the E21. It introduced the iconic sedan body style and was a pivotal model for BMW's global success.

Production Years E30:

1982-1994

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany, and later in Rosslyn, South Africa.

325I Introduction:

The 325i model, featuring the M20B25 2.5L engine, replaced the 323i in many markets, offering a significant power and refinement upgrade.

325Is Distinction:

The 'is' designation in North America typically signified the sportier model, often including a limited-slip differential (LSD) and M-Technic suspension components as standard or common options, compared to the 'i' model.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

The E30 generation received numerous accolades during its production run, often praised for its driving dynamics by automotive publications like Car and Driver and MotorTrend. Specific awards for the 1985 model might include 'Ten Best' lists.

Driving Dynamics Rating:

Consistently rated as one of the best-handling cars in its class, lauded for its balance and driver feedback.