🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Variant:

325xi

Year:

2004

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code Variant:

M54B25

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Premium compact executive sedan/wagon, competing with Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and Lexus IS.

Competitive Analysis:

The 2004 325xi offers a blend of sporty handling, refined interior, and the added security of BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system, distinguishing it from RWD-biased competitors and front-wheel-drive mainstream options.

Key Features:

Inline-6 engine, xDrive all-wheel drive, balanced chassis, premium interior materials, sophisticated styling, available sedan and wagon (Touring) body styles.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain (AWD), Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body & Chassis, Interior, Emissions, Diagnostics, Maintenance

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive software manual)

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital Download/CD-ROM - inferred)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, Engine electrical, Fuel & Emissions Control, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Intake System, Exhaust System, Automatic Transmission (GM 5L40-E), Manual Transmission (Getrag 420G), All-Wheel Drive System (xDrive), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS, DSC), Power Steering, Climate Control (HVAC), Electrical Distribution, Lighting, Instrumentation & Warning Indicators, Audio System, Navigation System, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Chassis Lubrication, Diagnostic Procedures (OBD-II), Wiring Diagrams, Component Locations

Procedures Included:

Scheduled maintenance, Oil and filter changes, Spark plug replacement, Air filter replacement, Coolant flush and fill, Brake fluid flush and fill, Transmission fluid and filter service, Differential fluid service, Wheel alignment checks, Belt replacement, Suspension component inspection and replacement, Brake pad and rotor replacement, Exhaust system repair, Battery testing and replacement, Headlight and taillight bulb replacement, Wiper blade replacement, Interior component removal and installation, Exterior trim repair, Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution, Electrical component testing and replacement, Engine troubleshooting, Transmission troubleshooting, Drivetrain troubleshooting, HVAC system troubleshooting and repair, Bodywork repair procedures, Seat belt inspection and repair, Airbag system inspection and caution

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Includes detailed diagnostic procedures, component testing, overhaul instructions, torque specifications, and electrical schematics. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Software application with searchable interface (likely proprietary format or PDF collection)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital - High Resolution, Vector Graphics for Diagrams)

Binding Type:

N/A (Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder

Engine Code:

M54B25

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

81.0 mm x 80.7 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Horsepower:

184 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

230 Nm (169 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

Engine Control Unit:

Bosch Motronic ME 7.2

Valve Train:

Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 Valves per Cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (GM 5L40-E)

Transmission Type:

6-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 420G)

Drivetrain:

xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with electronic traction control and stability control (DSC)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF ETL-7045E or Dexron III/VI (refer to manual for exact spec and capacity)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (refer to manual for exact spec and capacity)

Differential Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Front & Rear Differentials) (refer to manual for exact spec and capacity)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

107.1 inches (2720 mm)

Length:

177.4 inches (4506 mm) (Sedan)

Width:

68.7 inches (1745 mm)

Height:

55.7 inches (1415 mm) (Sedan)

Front Track:

58.4 inches (1483 mm)

Rear Track:

59.1 inches (1501 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3500-3700 lbs (1588-1678 kg) depending on body style and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 4585 lbs (2080 kg)

Trunk Capacity:

13.6 cu ft (385 L) (Sedan)

Cargo Capacity Wagon:

15.7 cu ft (445 L) with rear seats up, 52.6 cu ft (1490 L) with rear seats folded (Touring)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

5-Star (Driver and Passenger)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good

Active Safety Features:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), All-Season Traction

Passive Safety Features:

Front-mounted airbags (driver and passenger), Side-impact airbags (front and rear), Head protection system (HPS) airbags (front and rear), Active front head restraints, Seatbelt pre-tensioners

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW Professional Radio/Cassette or optional CD player, available navigation system with CD-ROM maps, optional Harman Kardon audio system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Park Distance Control (PDC) - optional rear parking sensors.

Connectivity Features:

BMW Assist with TeleService (subscription-based) - optional, offering emergency calling and vehicle diagnostics. Bluetooth mobile phone preparation - optional.

Lighting Options:

Halogen projector headlights, optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights with automatic leveling and cleaning system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system recommends oil changes based on driving conditions, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months. Refer to the manual for specific CBS reset procedures.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Approximately 100,000 miles for iridium spark plugs (refer to manual for specific type and interval).

Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 2 years or 15,000-30,000 miles (refer to manual for exact interval and location).

Coolant Replacement Interval:

Initial fill for life, but recommended flush and replacement every 4-5 years or 50,000-60,000 miles.

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 approved synthetic oil, SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30. Refer to manual for exact specification and capacity.

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 (BMW High Performance Brake Fluid recommended)

Known Issues:

Oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, coolant expansion tank cracks, VANOS solenoid issues, ABS/DSC module failure (common in older E46 models), power steering leaks, window regulator failures, ignition coil failures, C_ON_N_I_NG_G_R_O_U_N_D_ _R_E_L_A_Y_ _F_A_I_L_U_R_E_ _(a known E46 electrical gremlin). The manual will provide diagnostic procedures for these and other potential issues.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

BMW ISTA/D (Integrated Service Application) diagnostic software and compatible interface (e.g., ICOM, K+DCAN cable) are highly recommended for full diagnostic capabilities, though OBD-II scanners can read basic codes.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) has a long history of producing performance-oriented vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics and engineering excellence, dating back to the early 20th century.

Model Evolution:

The E46 generation (1998-2006) represented a significant evolution for the 3 Series, building on the success of its predecessors with improved styling, chassis dynamics, and technology. The 'xi' designation signifies BMW's all-wheel-drive system, introduced to enhance traction and stability.

Production Period:

2004 model year (part of E46 generation production: 1998-2006)

Production Locations:

Primary production located in Germany (e.g., Munich, Dingolfing), with some assembly potentially occurring in other global locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognized Award Type:

Car and Driver 10Best (for the E46 generation in general) multiple times during its production run.

Car And Driver Rating:

Praised for its exceptional handling, responsive engine, and balanced chassis.

Certification Type:

Emissions compliance (e.g., EPA, CARB in relevant markets).