Segment:
Entry-luxury sports sedan
Positioning:
The 3 Series is BMW's core model, known for its driving dynamics, quality, and sophisticated engineering. The 325xi variant adds all-wheel-drive capability, enhancing traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions, appealing to a broader market segment.
Competitors:
Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class AWD variants (e.g., C240 4MATIC), Lexus IS300 AWD
Features:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive, powerful inline-six engine, balanced chassis, premium interior, driver-focused ergonomics
Coverage Scope:
All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types for the 2003 BMW 325xi
Primary Focus:
Workshop Repair and Service
Estimated Pages:
Extensive, likely over 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (M54B30), Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain (xDrive AWD System), Transmission (Automatic & Manual)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, DSC), Wheel Alignment
Electrical:
Engine Management (DME), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting System, Instrumentation, HVAC Controls, Audio System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors)
Body:
Body Exterior (Panels, Bumpers, Doors, Hood, Trunk), Interior Trim, Seats, Airbag System
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes (Oil, Coolant, Brake, Power Steering, Transmission), Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Electrical Schematics Interpretation, Mechanical Component Diagnosis
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Values, Diagnostic Parameters
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete rebuild procedures. Includes detailed exploded diagrams and wiring schematics.
Configuration:
3.0L (2979cc) DOHC Inline-6
Valvetrain:
24 Valves (4 per cylinder), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
225 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
ECU:
Siemens MS43 (or MS43.1 in some late models)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Steptronic Automatic (with manual shifting mode)
Transmission Type Optional:
6-speed Manual Transmission
Drivetrain:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Electronic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control (ASC+T)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW LT-3 (or equivalent ATF specification, e.g., Shell M-1375.4, Esso JWS 3309)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF-LT-1 or MTF-LT-2 (or equivalent manual transmission fluid specification)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5 Stars (Driver & Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
4 Stars (Front Passenger) / 5 Stars (Rear Passenger)
Electronic Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), Side-impact airbags (front), Available Head Protection System (HPS) airbags
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner seatbelts with force limiters
Infotainment System:
BMW Professional Radio/CD player, optional navigation system (MK4), optional Harman Kardon sound system.
Connectivity Options:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface (check if standard on specific trims/packages)
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise Control, Rain-sensing wipers (optional), Xenon Adaptive Headlights (optional).
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system dictates intervals, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Manual will specify exact CBS parameters.
Inspect Brakes:
Check at every oil service, detailed inspection every 2 years or 20,000 miles.
Replace Air Filter:
Every 30,000 miles or as per CBS.
Replace Cabin Filter:
Every 15,000 miles or annually.
Replace Spark Plugs:
Typically every 100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs. Manual will specify exact type and interval.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 US quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 synthetic oil, SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30. Manual will provide precise specifications.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (BMW High Performance Brake Fluid)
Common Issues:
PCV valve failures (oil leaks, rough idle), VANOS solenoid issues, coolant expansion tank cracks, oil filter housing gasket leaks, spark plug well oil contamination, rear subframe cracking (less common on AWD models but possible), cooling system component failures (water pump, thermostat).
Heritage:
BMW, founded in 1916, has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused, performance-oriented vehicles with advanced engineering.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) of the 3 Series represented a significant leap in design, technology, and refinement over its E36 predecessor. The 325xi variant was introduced to offer the renowned 3 Series driving experience with enhanced all-weather capability.
Production Years:
E46 3 Series produced from 1998 to 2006. The 325xi model was available during the latter half of this period.
