Target Audience:
BMW owners, independent repair shops, automotive technicians, DIY enthusiasts.
Manual Advantage:
Provides dealership-level repair and maintenance data, often identical to manuals used by authorized service centers.
Cost Savings:
Enables significant savings on repair and maintenance costs by empowering users to perform their own work.
Information Source:
Written by the manufacturer (BMW), ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Content Quality:
Complete and intact, with detailed diagrams, photos, and step-by-step instructions.
Usability:
Easy-to-navigate with numbered table of contents and clear instructions, designed for efficient use.
Primary Coverage:
All 2004 BMW 3 Series E46 models, engines, trim levels, and transmission types.
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds (exact count not specified, but indicated as comprehensive)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine Management:
Comprehensive coverage of Engine Service/Repair, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Engine Control System.
Drivetrain:
Detailed information on Transmission Service/Repair, Differential/Drive, Axle.
Chassis And Suspension:
Extensive coverage including Brake System, Suspension, Steering, Chassis/Body.
Electrical And HVAC:
In-depth coverage of Electrical System, Wiring Diagram, Heater/Air Conditioner.
Maintenance And Troubleshooting:
General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication, Troubleshooting procedures.
Repair And Diagnostics:
Step-by-step repair procedures, diagnostic information for all systems, electrical system diagnosis.
Disassembly And Assembly:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, cleaning, and reinstallation procedures for various components.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Professional-level diagnostic information, combining troubleshooting with detailed wiring diagrams.
Repair Complexity:
Suitable for basic DIY repairs to complex internal component rebuilds, mirroring dealership-level information.
Engine Options 2004 E46:
Includes coverage for various inline-4 and inline-6 gasoline engines (e.g., N42/N46 4-cyl, M54 6-cyl) and diesel engines (e.g., M47, M57). Specific engine codes are detailed within the manual.
Performance Details:
Manual provides specifications for horsepower, torque, engine output for all covered variants.
Fuel Injection Type:
Details fuel injection systems, including throttle body, fuel pump, injectors, and related sensors.
Fuel Type:
Covers gasoline (petrol) and diesel fuel systems.
Standard Transmission Options:
Manual transmission (e.g., Getrag 5-speed, ZF 6-speed) and automatic transmission (e.g., GM 5-speed Steptronic, ZF 6-speed Steptronic).
Optional Transmission Options:
All available transmission types for the 2004 E46 model range are covered.
Transmission Features:
Includes repair procedures for clutch, gearbox components, torque converter, mechatronics, shift solenoids, and transmission control modules.
E46 Body Styles:
Covers Sedan (E46/4), Coupe (E46/2), Convertible (E46/C), Touring (E46/3), and M3 variants (E46/M3).
Wheelbase Range:
Standard (approx. 2760 mm) and Compact variants (approx. 2650 mm) may be covered, depending on specific E46 sub-models documented.
Curb Weight Range:
Varies by model and equipment, with details provided for specific configurations within the manual.
E46 Safety Ratings:
While not a direct rating, the manual covers restraint systems, airbags, and safety-related electrical systems, crucial for understanding vehicle safety.
Active Safety Systems:
Covers ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction).
Passive Safety Systems:
Detailed information on airbag systems, seatbelt pre-tensioners, and chassis integrity.
E46 Infotainment Options:
Covers systems like the Professional Radio, Business CD, and the optional navigation system (e.g., MK4).
Driver Assistance Features:
Details on ABS, DSC, cruise control, and parking sensors.
E46 Connectivity:
Information related to the vehicle's communication systems, including phone integration (e.g., Bluetooth via ULF module) if equipped.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable service interval (Condition Based Service - CBS) based on driving conditions and oil quality sensors, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months. Manual will provide specific guidance.
Major Service Intervals:
Includes recommendations for spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid replacement, and other scheduled maintenance based on mileage or time.
Engine Oil Spec:
Various BMW Longlife-01 or Longlife-04 approved synthetic oils, with specific viscosity grades (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-30) depending on engine and climate. Manual will specify exact requirements.
Coolant Spec:
BMW Premium Coolant or equivalent, mixed with distilled water. Manual will specify the correct type and ratio.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) approved by BMW for the particular transmission model (e.g., LT-3, Lifeguard 5/6). Manual is essential for correct specification.
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
Specific gear oil for manual transmissions, type and viscosity detailed in the manual.
Common E46 Issues:
Manual likely covers common E46 issues such as VANOS solenoid failure, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), cooling system components (water pump, thermostat, hoses), rear subframe mounting point fatigue, and blower motor resistor failure.
Troubleshooting Guidance:
Provides systematic troubleshooting steps for diagnosing and repairing these and other common problems.
Bmw Heritage:
BMW's reputation for performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.
E46 Positioning:
The E46 represented a significant evolution in the 3 Series line, known for its sporty driving dynamics and refined interior.
E46 Production Period:
Produced from 1998 to 2006, with the 2004 model year being a mid-life update for some variants.
