Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible
Target Audience:
Luxury vehicle buyers seeking sporty driving dynamics and premium features.
Key Competitors 2003:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive bias, and engaging steering.
Powertrain:
Smooth and potent inline-six engines, offering a refined power delivery.
Interior Quality:
High-quality materials and typically driver-focused ergonomics.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Electrical Systems, Mechanical Systems, Bodywork
Secondary Coverage:
Specifications, Torque Values, Wiring Diagrams, Component Locations
Type:
Factory Authorized Service and Repair Workshop Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (M54B25), Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Lubrication System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Clutch, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axles, Wheel Bearings
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering System, Power Steering
Brakes:
Brake System (Hydraulic, ABS, DSC), Brake Pad Replacement, Rotor Replacement, Caliper Overhaul
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting System, Power Windows, Mirrors, Seats, Instrument Cluster, ECU, DME, Wiring Diagrams
Body Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC System, Restraint Systems (Airbags)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Belt Inspections
Major Repairs:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Overhaul, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Fault Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Diagnostics, Component Testing Procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive diagnostic and repair procedures, including detailed specifications, torque values, and step-by-step instructions for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 (I6)
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84 mm x 75 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 24 Valves (4 per cylinder) with Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
184 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
175 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
Emissions Control:
Dual Catalytic Converters, Oxygen Sensors (O2 Sensors), Secondary Air Injection System (SAI) on some models.
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag GS5-39DZ)
Type:
5-Speed Steptronic Automatic (GM A5S360R)
Manual Clutch:
Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch
Automatic Modes:
Sequential Shift Mode (Steptronic)
Manual Fluid Type:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF2)
Automatic Fluid Type:
Esso LT 71141 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF1)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star Driver, 4-Star Passenger
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC) or Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Braking Assist:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Frontal Driver and Passenger Airbags, Optional Side-Impact Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with front force limiters and pretensioners
Head Unit Options:
BMW Professional Radio, optional Navigation System (MK III/MK IV based) with CD or DVD.
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon or Hi-Fi sound systems.
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) is standard on most models.
Parking Assist:
Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC).
Connectivity Features:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface (via TCU unit), optional CD changer.
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system recommends based on driving conditions; typically around 7,500-15,000 miles or 12-24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or as per CBS.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic, meeting BMW LL-01 specification.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 US quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) Brake Fluid.
Cooling System Common:
Plastic expansion tank cracking, water pump failure (especially plastic impeller), coolant hoses degradation.
Oil Leaks Common:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter housing gasket (o-rings).
Suspension Common:
Front control arm bushings, rear subframe bushings, strut mounts.
Electrical Common:
CCFL Angel Eye rings (if equipped), Vanos solenoids, LCM (Light Control Module) issues, ABS/DSC sensor failures.
Engine Common:
CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system clogging leading to oil leaks and rough idle.
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure - emphasis on performance, handling, and driver engagement.
E46 Generation Start:
Launched in 1998 (for the 1999 model year) as the successor to the E36.
E46 Facelift Year:
Minor facelift (LCI) occurred in 2001 for the 2002 model year, with subtle styling and equipment updates.
Production Period E46:
1998–2006
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (e.g., Dingolfing, Munich), South Africa, Austria, Egypt, Thailand, Russia, India, China, Brazil.
Car And Driver Best List:
Car and Driver '10Best' list for multiple years in the late 1990s and early 2000s, a testament to its driving prowess.
Edmunds Com Ratings:
Generally highly rated for performance, handling, and luxury feel during its production run.
Emission Standards:
Meets EPA and CARB emission standards for its model year.
