🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Variant:

325xi

Year:

2003

Chassis Code:

E46

Generation Name:

Fifth Generation E46

Engine Code:

M54B25

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Premium compact executive sedan/wagon offering sporty handling, advanced technology, and all-wheel drive capability

Competitive Analysis:

Competed directly with the Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC, and Lexus IS series

Key Features:

xDrive all-wheel drive system, refined inline-six engine, engaging driving dynamics, premium interior appointments, advanced safety features

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical Systems, HVAC, Bodywork, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Repair Procedures

Page Count:

Extensive (Software-based, dynamically displayed)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (Downloadable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

M54B25 inline-six: Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, exhaust system

Drivetrain Systems:

xDrive All-Wheel Drive System: Transfer case, front and rear driveshafts, differentials, axle shafts, AWD control module

Transmission Systems:

GM 5L475-E (5-speed automatic): Gearbox operation, torque converter, valve body, electronic control module, fluid specifications, service

Suspension Steering:

Front and Rear Suspension: MacPherson struts, multi-link rear, control arms, bushings, shock absorbers, steering rack, power steering system

Brake Systems:

Front and Rear Disc Brakes: ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake pad replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, hydraulic system

Electrical Systems:

12V Electrical System: Battery, alternator, starter, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

HVAC Systems:

Climate Control System: Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, blower motor, refrigerant handling, cabin air filter replacement

Bodywork Interior:

Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, Convertible Top Mechanism (if applicable), Convertible Top Frame

Engine Procedures:

Engine oil and filter change, spark plug replacement, coolant flush and fill, drive belt replacement, complete engine removal and installation, cylinder head overhaul

Drivetrain Procedures:

Transfer case fluid change, differential fluid change, driveshaft and CV joint inspection and replacement, AWD system diagnostics

Transmission Procedures:

Automatic transmission fluid and filter change, transmission removal and installation, torque converter replacement, troubleshooting transmission shift issues

Suspension Steering Procedures:

Strut and shock absorber replacement, control arm and bushing replacement, wheel bearing replacement, power steering fluid flush, steering rack repair

Brake Procedures:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake fluid flush and bleed, ABS/DSC component testing and replacement, parking brake adjustment

Electrical Procedures:

Battery testing and replacement, alternator testing and replacement, starter replacement, headlight/taillight bulb replacement, fuse and relay diagnosis, wiring harness repair

HVAC Procedures:

AC system recharge, cabin filter replacement, heater core replacement, blower motor replacement, diagnosis of climate control system faults

Bodywork Procedures:

Door lock and window regulator repair, mirror replacement, bumper cover repair, interior trim panel removal and installation

Diagnostic Procedures:

OBD-II scanning, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) interpretation, component testing, troubleshooting common drivability issues

Technical Depth:

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

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital - excellent clarity and detail)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder

Engine Code:

M54B25

Displacement:

2494 cc (2.5 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 90.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Valve Train:

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

Horsepower:

184 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

230 Nm (169 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

66 Liters (17.4 US Gallons)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic (GM 5L475-E)

Optional Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (S5-42/3Z)

Drivetrain Type:

xDrive All-Wheel Drive

Transfer Case:

Electronically controlled multi-plate clutch system with planetary gearset

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III/VI or equivalent (refer to manual for specific BMW P/N)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (refer to manual for specific BMW P/N)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2760 mm (108.7 inches)

Length:

4471 mm (176.0 inches)

Width:

1739 mm (68.5 inches)

Height:

1415 mm (55.7 inches)

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 140 mm (5.5 inches)

Curb Weight:

1550 kg (3417 lbs) approx.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

2000 kg (4409 lbs) approx.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:

4 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

4 Stars

IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:

Good

IIHS Side Impact:

Good

Active Safety Features:

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

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (HPS), 3-point safety belts with pretensioners, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available BMW Business CD or Professional CD radio, optional navigation system (MKIII/MKIV based), Harman Kardon audio system

Driver Assistance Features:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Cruise Control

Connectivity Features:

Optional Bluetooth integration (often via aftermarket adapter or later model updates), optional Sirius Satellite Radio

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Refer to CBS indicator.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as per CBS. Inspect more frequently in dusty conditions.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 100,000 miles (Long-life spark plugs).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Initial fill is long-life; typically replaced every 4 years or 100,000 miles.

Brake Fluid Flush Interval:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-40 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 approved)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based

Power Steering Fluid Type:

BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11 S or equivalent G002000)

Transfer Case Fluid Type:

BMW Transfer Case Fluid (ATF) or equivalent (refer to manual for specific P/N)

Known Issues:

Oil separator (PCV) system failure (clogging/leaks), VANOS solenoid issues, cooling system leaks (expansion tank, hoses), rear main crankshaft seal leaks, strut mount wear, front control arm bushings wear, "limp mode" transmission issues

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) is a German luxury vehicle manufacturer with a long history of producing performance-oriented vehicles, renowned for their driving dynamics and engineering excellence.

Model Evolution:

The E46 generation, produced from 1998-2006 (with variants extending beyond), represented BMW's focus on sporty handling, refined styling, and technological advancement in the compact executive segment. The 'xi' designation signifies BMW's all-wheel-drive system.

Production Period:

2001-2006 (for E46 325xi)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), South Africa (Rosslyn)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

While specific awards for the 2003 325xi are not individually cataloged, the E46 generation as a whole consistently received praise from automotive publications like Car and Driver and MotorTrend for its handling, performance, and overall value within the luxury segment.