Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Touring (E-Segment)
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202/W203), Audi A4 (B5/B6), Lexus IS200/IS300, Alfa Romeo 156
Brand Philosophy:
BMW's focus on 'Sheer Driving Pleasure', balancing performance, comfort, and advanced engineering.
Chassis Design:
Renowned for its balanced weight distribution (50/50), rear-wheel drive platform, and excellent handling characteristics.
Engine Options Diesel:
The 320d and 330d offered strong diesel performance and efficiency, becoming popular choices in markets where diesel was favored.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Diagnostic Procedures, Maintenance Schedules
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Component Diagnosis, Repair Procedures, Overhaul Instructions, Wiring Diagrams, Component Replacement
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (typically 1000+ pages for a comprehensive service manual)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to in-depth diagnostic and repair procedures for professionals and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Electrical Diagrams:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all major electrical circuits, including component location and pinouts.
Engine Systems:
Diesel injection systems (Bosch EDC, common rail for 330d), turbocharging, EGR, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system.
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (Getrag), Automatic transmission (ZF 5HP series), clutch operation, driveshaft, differential.
Electrical Systems:
Engine control modules (DME/DDE), body control modules (BCM), lighting, infotainment, instrument cluster, CAN bus communication, ABS/DSC systems, comfort access features.
Chassis Systems:
Front and rear suspension (MacPherson strut front, multi-link rear), steering rack, power steering system, brake system (ABS, EBD, DSC components), wheel bearings, hub assemblies.
Climate Control:
Manual and automatic climate control systems, refrigerant handling, heater core, A/C compressor.
Fuel System Diesel:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, filters, glow plug system, high-pressure fuel pump, injectors.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Fault code interpretation, live data stream analysis, component testing, troubleshooting flowcharts for common symptoms.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment, including torque specifications and special tool requirements.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, spark plug/glow plug replacement (where applicable).
Body And Trim:
Removal and installation of interior and exterior trim panels, bumpers, doors, windows, and mirrors.
Engine Code 320D:
M47D20 (pre-facelift) / M47TUD20 (facelift)
Horsepower 320D:
136 hp (M47D20) to 150 hp (M47TUD20)
Torque 320D:
280 Nm (M47D20) to 300 Nm (M47TUD20)
Injection System 320D:
Direct injection, common rail (later variants)
Injection System 330D:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDi)
Layout:
Inline 4-cylinder (320d) / Inline 6-cylinder (330d)
Displacement 320D:
1951 cc (early) / 1995 cc (later M47TUD20)
Displacement 330D:
2926 cc
Turbocharger:
Yes, variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) on most models.
Euro Ncap Rating:
4 Stars (for Saloon/Touring, depending on year and equipment)
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, side airbags, optional curtain airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, crumple zones.
Infotainment System:
Optional Professional Navigation system, CD player, radio, optional Harman Kardon audio system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Park Distance Control (PDC) optional, Cruise Control.
Connectivity Options:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free system, often integrated with the professional navigation.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable interval system (Conditional Based Service - CBS), typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Brake Fluid Change:
Typically every 2 years.
Coolant Change:
Extended life coolant, typically replaced at 4-5 years or 100,000 miles, but check manual for specifics.
Engine Oil 320D 330D:
BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) or equivalent low-ash synthetic diesel oil meeting ACEA C3 specification. Viscosity typically 5W-30 or 5W-40.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) meeting BMW specification, e.g., MTF LT-2.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) meeting ZF specifications, e.g., ZF LifeguardFluid 5 (for 5HP19/5HP24).
Coolant Type:
G48 (Blue/Green) Ethylene Glycol based coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV).
Engine Oil Capacity 320D:
Approx. 5.5 liters
Engine Oil Capacity 330D:
Approx. 6.5 liters
Common Issues:
Cracked rear subframe mounting points, cooling system failures (water pump, thermostat, radiator hoses), VANOS unit issues (less common on diesel), swirl flap failure (M47/M57 diesel engines), injector problems, turbocharger wear, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve clogging.
Bmw History:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for performance, engineering, and luxury in the automotive industry since its founding in 1916.
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 1998, succeeding the E36. It was a significant evolution in design, technology, and performance.
E46 Facelift:
The E46 underwent a significant facelift (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse) in September 2001, introducing revised styling, updated technology, and powertrain enhancements (e.g., M47TUD20 for 320d).
Production Period:
1998-2006 (E46 generation, with updates and facelifts during this period)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), but also plants in South Africa, Mexico, and China.
