1986 BMW 325ES Manual

The 1986 BMW 325ES is a sport luxury sedan featuring the M20 inline-6 engine with 121 horsepower, electronic fuel injection, 5-speed manual transmission, limited-slip differential, sport suspension package, power steering, power windows, air conditioning, premium sound system, and distinctive ES trim package. Below are key sections for specifications, maintenance, operation, troubleshooting, and technical details.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Operating Instructions 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Instrumentation 6. Fluid Capacities 7. Electrical System 9. Safety Features 10. Care & Maintenance 11. Warranty Information 12. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Specifications

Key components: M20B27 2.7L inline-6 engine, 5-speed manual transmission, sport suspension, limited-slip differential, power-assisted steering.

Feature	Description
Engine	M20B27 2.7L inline-6 cylinder
Horsepower	121 hp @ 4250 rpm
Torque	170 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Transmission	5-speed manual Getrag 260
Drivetrain	Rear-wheel drive
Suspension	Front MacPherson strut, rear semi-trailing arms
Brakes	Front disc, rear drum with ABS
Fuel System	Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection
Fuel Capacity	16.4 gallons
Curb Weight	2660 lbs

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
Spark Plugs: Replace every 15,000 miles
Air Filter: Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed
Timing Belt: Replace every 60,000 miles
Brake Fluid: Flush every 2 years
Coolant: Replace every 2 years

WARNING! Use only BMW-approved fluids and parts. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Operating Instructions

Proper operation ensures vehicle longevity and safety.

Starting: Depress clutch fully, turn ignition key
Shifting: Smooth clutch engagement, proper gear selection
Braking: Progressive pressure, avoid abrupt stops
Parking: Engage parking brake, shift to reverse gear
Climate Control: Adjust temperature and fan speed as needed

CAUTION! Allow engine to warm up before aggressive driving. Avoid lugging engine in high gears.

Technical Specifications

Engine Type: M20B27 2.7L inline-6
Compression Ratio: 9.0:1
Transmission: 5-speed manual Getrag 260
Final Drive Ratio: 3.73:1 limited-slip
Brakes: Front 10.2" vented discs, rear 9.0" drums
Wheels: 14" alloy wheels
Tires: 195/65R14
Fuel Requirement: Premium unleaded (91 octane)
EPA Mileage: 18 city / 26 highway

Controls and Instrumentation

Dashboard features comprehensive instrumentation and controls.

Instrument Cluster: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights.

Controls: Steering column stalks for turn signals and wipers, center console for climate and audio, power window switches on center console. Sport seats with manual adjustments, tilt steering column, cruise control on steering wheel.

Fluid Capacities

Proper fluid levels and types are critical for vehicle operation.

Engine Oil: 5.3 quarts (5.0L) 15W-40
Coolant: 11.1 quarts (10.5L) BMW blue coolant
Transmission: 1.3 quarts (1.2L) MTF-LT-1
Differential: 1.6 quarts (1.5L) 75W-90 GL-5
Brake Fluid: DOT 4
Power Steering: ATF Dexron II

Tip: Check fluid levels when engine is cold for accurate readings.

Electrical System

12-volt negative ground system with alternator and battery.

Battery: 12V 65Ah maintenance-free
Alternator: 80A output
Fuses: Located in glove compartment and engine bay
Lighting: Halogen headlights, incandescent markers
Audio: AM/FM cassette stereo with 4 speakers

WARNING! Disconnect battery before electrical work. Avoid short circuits.

Safety Features

Dual-circuit brake system with ABS, 3-point seat belts, reinforced passenger cell, side impact protection.

Care & Maintenance

Regular washing with pH-neutral soap. Wax every 3 months. Interior cleaning with BMW-approved products.

CAUTION! Avoid automatic car washes with harsh brushes. Use soft cloth for drying.

Warranty Information

New vehicle limited warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles. Rust perforation warranty: 6 years/unlimited miles. For service, contact authorized BMW dealership. © 1986 BMW of North America. For support, contact 1-800-831-1117.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard starting	Fuel pump, spark plugs	Check fuel pressure; inspect spark plugs and wires
Rough idle	Vacuum leaks, dirty injectors	Inspect vacuum hoses; clean fuel injectors
Overheating	Coolant level, thermostat	Check coolant level; test thermostat operation
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Inspect and replace brake rotors if necessary
Electrical issues	Battery, alternator	Test battery and alternator output; check grounds

Reset: Disconnect battery for 15 minutes to reset computer.

Service: 1-800-831-1117; authorized BMW dealerships