🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

330i

Year:

1999

Chassis Code:

E46

Generation Identifier:

First Generation (E46)

Engine Code Typical:

M54B30

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible.

Competitive Set:

Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Lexus IS300.

Key Competitor Advantages:

BMW's renowned driving dynamics, chassis tuning, rear-wheel-drive bias, and refined inline-six engines.

Driving Dynamics:

Excellent balance, precise steering, and responsive handling.

Engine Characteristics:

Smooth, powerful, and torquey inline-six engine.

Build Quality:

Typically high levels of BMW build quality and interior materials for its class.

Design Philosophy:

A blend of sporty aesthetics and executive comfort, characteristic of BMW's design language.

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

All global markets where the E46 330i was sold.

Models Covered:

BMW 330i Sedan (E46 330i), Coupe (E46 330Ci), Convertible (E46 330Ci Convertible), Sports Wagon (E46 330xi Touring - if applicable to the specific model variant in 1999, though xi designation might be later).

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine overhaul, component removal/installation, timing, lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system, fuel injection system.

Engine Management:

ECU (DME) diagnosis, sensor testing (MAF, O2, crankshaft position, camshaft position), ignition system, fuel pump operation, VANOS system.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox disassembly/assembly, shift linkage, clutch hydraulics.

Transmission Automatic:

GM 5L40-E transmission diagnosis, fluid service, electronic control unit (TCU) interface, valve body, torque converter.

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, constant velocity (CV) joints, differentials (rear axle), wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front strut assembly, control arms, ball joints, bushings, rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, springs.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, power steering pump, fluid and leak diagnosis.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) components, brake caliper overhaul, brake pad and rotor replacement, brake fluid flush.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuse box diagrams, relay locations.

Body And Interior:

Door mechanisms, window regulators, seat removal, dashboard disassembly, exterior trim, bumpers, hood and trunk latches.

Climate Control:

HVAC system operation, blower motor, evaporator, heater core, refrigerant system (R134a), A/C compressor, climate control module.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS) diagnosis and component replacement, seatbelt mechanisms.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil and filter change, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, coolant flush and refill, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid service (auto and manual), differential fluid change, belt replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic fault codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for engine, transmission, electrical, and chassis systems.

Repair Procedures:

Engine component rebuilds, transmission repairs, suspension component replacement, brake system overhauls, steering system repairs, electrical component replacement, body panel repair.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Use of BMW diagnostic tools (e.g., DISplus, GT1), step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts, wiring diagrams for electrical fault finding.

Specifications And Data:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, clearances, diagnostic values, wiring schematics, component testing procedures.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls).

Diagnostic Level:

Advanced (includes ECU data, sensor readings, and detailed diagnostic trees).

Component Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components like engines, transmissions, and differentials.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, naturally aspirated

Engine Code:

M54B30

Displacement:

2979 cc (3.0 liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 89.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Valvetrain:

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

Horsepower:

228 hp @ 5900 rpm

Torque:

214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Electronic Ignition (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 420G)

Transmission Type Optional:

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

Manual Transmission Features:

Hydraulically actuated clutch, dual-mass flywheel.

Automatic Transmission Features:

Steptronic functionality (manual shift mode).

Final Drive Ratio:

3.07:1 (approx. for manual and auto)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4471 mm (176.0 in)

Width:

1739 mm (68.5 in)

Height:

1412 mm (55.6 in)

Wheelbase:

2725 mm (107.3 in)

Track Width Front:

1471 mm (57.9 in)

Track Width Rear:

1479 mm (58.2 in)

Ground Clearance:

120 mm (4.7 in) (approx.)

Front Headroom:

988 mm (38.9 in)

Rear Headroom:

958 mm (37.7 in)

Front Legroom:

1036 mm (40.8 in)

Rear Legroom:

843 mm (33.2 in)

Trunk Volume:

440 liters (15.5 cu ft)

Curb Weight Manual:

1510 kg (3329 lbs)

Curb Weight Automatic:

1530 kg (3373 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

2020 kg (4453 lbs) (approx.)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

4-star (Driver), 4-star (Passenger)

IIHS Front Offset Rating:

Good (for its era)

ABS:

Standard (Bosch 5.7)

Traction Control:

ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) standard.

Stability Control:

Optional DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) available on some models.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts with pre-tensioners.

Head Restraints:

Active front head restraints.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard BMW Professional RDS radio with CD player or cassette, optional Harman Kardon audio system.

Navigation:

Optional BMW Business or Professional Navigation system.

Climate Control:

Manual climate control or optional Automatic climate control with recirculation mode.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear Park Distance Control (PDC).

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Phone Integration:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free preparation or integrated telephone system.

Headlights:

Halogen headlights, optional Xenon headlights with headlight washers.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil quality (BMW's Condition Based Service - CBS system monitors this).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 60,000 miles (for standard plugs, iridium plugs may last longer).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-20,000 miles or annually.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.

Brake Fluid Flush Interval:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-30. Consult manual for specific viscosity.

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

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

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (or DOT 4 PLUS).

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent (color is green).

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW MTF-LT-2 or MTF-LT-3 (e.g., Castrol BOT 341 or equivalent).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

GM Dextron VI or BMW ATF LT71141 (often specific fluid is required, check manual).

Differential Fluid Type:

BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G2 (e.g., 75W-90 GL-5).

Common Issues:

Coolant expansion tank cracking, VANOS solenoid/rattle, oil filter housing gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system issues, ABS/DSC sensor failures, rear subframe mounting points, water pump failure (plastic impeller).

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

BMW AG, a German multinational company that produces luxury vehicles and motorcycles. Renowned for its sporting sedans and commitment to driving pleasure.

E46 Introduction:

The E46 generation was introduced in 1998 as a successor to the E36 3 Series. It represented a significant leap in design, engineering, and technology.

330I Introduction:

The 330i variant was introduced in the 2000 model year, replacing the 328i, and featured the more powerful M54B30 engine.

Production Period E46:

1998-2006 (Saloon), 1999-2006 (Coupe/Convertible).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany, with some production in other BMW facilities globally.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The E46 3 Series consistently appeared on Car and Driver's '10 Best' list during its production run, including for 2000-2002.

Ward Auto Worlds 10 Best Engines:

The M54 inline-six engine was recognized for its smooth power delivery and refinement.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Generally rated as average to above average, though specific issues can arise with age (as noted in known issues).