Engine Code General:
N52, M54 (depending on specific 3 Series variant)
Transmission Code General:
GM A5S360R, ZF GS6-37BZ (manual), GM 5L475-E (automatic)
Target Audience:
BMW owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts.
Advantage:
Provides same level of detail as official factory manuals used by dealerships, comprehensive coverage of all variants, cost-saving benefits for owners.
Features:
Step-by-step instructions, critical notes/cautions/warnings, detailed illustrations and photos, numbered instructions, easily searchable content, diagnostic assistance.
Coverage:
All Models, Engines, Trim, and Transmission Types for the 2005 BMW 3 Series E46
Estimated Page Count:
Thousands (as indicated by 'hundreds of pages of diagrams and detailed information' and comprehensive coverage list)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Systems:
General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle
Procedures:
Detailed substeps, repair procedures, diagnostic procedures, maintenance procedures, disassembly, assembly, cleaning, reinstallation, troubleshooting, electrical service procedures
Depth:
Professional-level, comprehensive, detailed as used by local service/repair shops, including critical specifications, diagrams, and photos.
Engine Options 2005 E46:
Common engines include 2.5L Inline-6 (M54B25), 3.0L Inline-6 (M54B30). The N52 inline-6 also began appearing in later E46 models, particularly the 330i/330xi.
Performance Estimates M54B30:
Approx. 225 hp @ 6000 rpm, 214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (specifics vary by model variant).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Bosch Motronic engine management.
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed manual transmission (e.g., Getrag GS5-39DZ) on select models.
Optional Transmission Type:
5-speed automatic transmission (e.g., GM A5S360R, A5S390R, ZF 5HP19) on select models.
Transmission Features:
Tiptronic/Steptronic functionality on automatic transmissions available on some variants.
IIHS Front Crash Test:
Good (for models tested during its generation).
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Likely 4 or 5 stars (for models tested during its generation, specific ratings vary by body style and testing year).
Active Safety Features:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS).
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, side airbags, front and rear head curtain airbags (on some models), crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell.
Infotainment System Features:
Optional BMW Professional Radio/Cassette/CD, optional navigation system (CCC or MKIV), optional Harman Kardon audio system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, rear parking sensors (optional), rain-sensing wipers (optional).
Connectivity Features:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free system, CD changer input.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type used, as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Inspect Brakes Interval:
Regular visual inspection recommended at every oil change; more thorough inspection every 15,000 - 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) synthetic oil, typically SAE 0W-40 or 5W-30, depending on climate and specific engine.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent blue/green ethylene glycol based).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4, low viscosity (LV) recommended for ABS systems.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Specific Dexron III H or equivalent for GM transmissions; ATF LT-1 or LT-2 for ZF transmissions (check specific transmission type for exact fluid).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check specific manual for precise type).
Common E46 Issues:
Cooling system component failures (water pump, thermostat, expansion tank), VANOS solenoid failures, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), rear subframe mounting point cracks, window regulator failures, ignition coil issues.
Common E46 Issues Electrical:
ABS/ASC sensor failures, alternator issues, battery drain problems, instrument cluster pixel degradation.
Bmw Philosophy:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, emphasizing performance, handling, and driver engagement.
E46 Generation Period:
The E46 generation was produced from 1998 to 2006, with the 2005 model year representing a late-stage iteration of this highly successful series.
Production Locations:
Primary manufacturing took place in Germany (e.g., Dingolfing, Munich) and South Africa.
