🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

325xi

Year:

2002

Chassis Code:

E46

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon

Target Audience:

Individuals seeking a balance of performance, luxury, and practicality with all-wheel-drive capability.

Key Competitors 2002:

Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class (C320), Lexus IS300

Drivetrain Advantage:

xDrive all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.

Handling Dynamics:

Renowned BMW 'Ultimate Driving Machine' characteristics, precise steering, and balanced chassis.

Engine Smoothness:

Inline-six engine known for its refinement, power delivery, and signature sound.

Primary Use:

To provide detailed, accurate, and comprehensive repair and maintenance procedures for the BMW 325xi (E46) 2002 model year.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Interior, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Specifications

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF or similar for distribution)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication, cooling

Engine Performance:

Fuel delivery, ignition system, emissions control, engine management (DME), turbocharger (if applicable to specific variant, though not on 325xi)

Drivetrain:

xDrive all-wheel drive system, transfer case, differentials (front, rear), driveshafts, CV joints

Transmission:

Automatic and Manual transmission overhaul, clutch, torque converter, electronic control units (GM 5L40-E for auto)

Suspension:

Front struts, rear shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, springs, anti-roll bars, subframes

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, steering angle sensor

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake fluid, hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, lighting system, power windows, mirrors, seats, locks

Comfort Systems:

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), climate control, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant servicing

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seating, safety belts, airbags

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter change, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, brake pad replacement

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), electrical system diagnostics

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems

Engine Rebuilds:

Detailed procedures for complete engine disassembly, inspection, and reassembly

Transmission Service:

Fluid and filter changes, seal replacement, torque converter removal and installation

Brake System Service:

Pad and rotor replacement, caliper servicing, bleeding procedures, ABS/DSC component testing

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Wiring harness repair, component testing and replacement, diagnostic scanner usage

Air Conditioning Service:

Refrigerant evacuation and recharge, leak detection, component replacement

Depth:

Comprehensive coverage suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts

Detail Level:

Detailed torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, and assembly sequences

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on specific diagnostic tools and procedures used by BMW technicians

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (searchable text, printable pages)

Print Quality Digital:

High-resolution scans/originals, clear diagrams and text

Digital Binding Analogy:

N/A (Digital format implies no physical binding)

Digital Paper Analogy:

N/A (Digital format implies no physical paper type)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder

Engine Code:

M54B30

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Horsepower:

184 hp @ 6000 rpm (Note: While the product name states 325xi, the M54B30 engine typically powered the 330i. For a 325xi in 2002, it would likely have the M54B25 which produced 184 hp. The manual covers this M54 family.)

Torque:

245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (for M54B30. For M54B25: 230 Nm / 170 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch Motronic MSE 9.0

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)

ECU Type:

Digital Engine Electronics (DME)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type AWD:

xDrive All-Wheel Drive with Electronic Transfer Case

Manual Transmission Option:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag GS5-39DZ)

Automatic Transmission Option:

5-Speed Automatic (GM 5L40-E)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Steptronic manual shifting mode

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent (BMW part number 83 22 0 026 922 or similar)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 (BMW part number 83 22 0 309 031 or similar)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4471 mm (176.0 in)

Width:

1739 mm (68.5 in)

Height:

1413 mm (55.6 in)

Wheelbase:

2760 mm (108.7 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1565 kg (3450 lbs) for Sedan, varies slightly for Touring

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5 Stars (for similar E46 models)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for similar E46 models)

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS)

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

BMW Business CD or Professional RDS radio, optional Harman Kardon audio system

Navigation:

Optional MKIII Navigation system with CD-ROM map data

Parking Sensors:

Optional Park Distance Control (PDC)

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system

Bluetooth:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free system (with TCU - Telematics Control Unit)

Onboard Computer:

Standard OBC with features like average speed, fuel consumption, and range

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

15,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (based on Condition Based Service - CBS system or typical recommendations)

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years

Coolant Flush:

Every 4 years or 60,000 miles (typically BMW blue coolant)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (e.g., Long Life Platinum/Iridium)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW LL-01 or LL-04 approved)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change

Coolant Type:

BMW Engine Coolant Antifreeze (Blue) - G48 formulation

Cooling System:

Water pump failure (plastic impeller), thermostat housing leaks, expansion tank cracks

Suspension:

Control arm bushings (vibrations), rear subframe bushings (clunking noises), strut mount wear

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter housing gasket

Electrical:

CCFL angel eye rings failure, ABS/DSC sensor issues, window regulator failure

Drivetrain AWD:

Vibrations from driveshaft guibo (flex disc) failure, transfer case actuator issues

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Founded on precision engineering, performance, and driver-centric design.

E46 Generation:

The E46 generation (1998-2006) represented a significant advancement in BMW's compact executive line, offering improved dynamics, technology, and luxury.

325Xi Introduction:

The 'xi' designation signifies BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system, introduced to enhance all-weather capability and sporty handling.

Production Period:

2000-2006 (E46 platform)

Manufacturing Hubs:

Germany (Dingolfing, Munich)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Ward Best Engines:

The M54 engine family (including variations used in the 325xi/330xi) was recognized for its smooth operation and power delivery.

Car And Driver 10Best:

The BMW 3 Series (E46) was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best awards during its production run for its overall excellence.