Segment:
Compact Executive/Sports Sedan and Coupe
Reputation:
Renowned for its driving dynamics, sporty handling, and premium build quality.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202/W203), Audi A4 (B5/B6), Lexus IS, Alfa Romeo 156.
Driving Dynamics:
Excellent chassis balance, responsive steering, and well-tuned suspension.
Engine Options:
Wide range of inline-four and inline-six engines known for their smoothness and performance.
Build Quality:
High-quality interior materials and solid construction characteristic of BMW.
Design:
Timeless exterior styling with a focus on aerodynamic efficiency.
Coverage Scope:
All models and all repairs A-Z
Information Type:
Vehicle Specific
Target User:
Dealership Technicians
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific model/engine combination, typically 2000+ pages for a complete E46 service manual.
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, given typical industry practice for such comprehensive manuals)
Powertrain:
Engine (M43, M52, M54, S54), Transmission (Manual, Automatic), Drivetrain (RWD, AWD - xDrive models if applicable for the year)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, DSC), Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
ECU/DME, Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories, SRS Airbag System, Immobilizer
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, Convertible Top (if applicable)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code diagnosis (OBD-II), component testing, electrical circuit analysis
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine component replacement (pistons, bearings, valves), transmission overhaul, differential service, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuild, electrical component repair
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, alignment settings, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, component identification
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
File Quality:
High-resolution, searchable text with clear diagrams and illustrations.
Searchability:
Full text search capability for quick access to specific information.
Illustration Quality:
Clear, detailed technical drawings and photographs.
Diagram Clarity:
Accurate and easy-to-understand wiring diagrams and exploded views.
Binding:
N/A (for digital format)
Paper Quality:
N/A (for digital format)
Engine Codes 1998:
M43B19 (1.9L Inline-4), M52TU (2.5L & 2.8L Inline-6, Double VANOS)
M43B19 Horsepower:
Approx. 118 hp
M43B19 Torque:
Approx. 180 Nm (133 lb-ft)
M52Tub25 Horsepower:
Approx. 170 hp
M52Tub25 Torque:
Approx. 245 Nm (181 lb-ft)
M52Tub28 Horsepower:
Approx. 193 hp
M52Tub28 Torque:
Approx. 280 Nm (207 lb-ft)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Bosch Motronic management.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91+ Octane recommended).
Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy (for most M52/M54 variants)
Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (with manual shifting mode)
Automatic Features:
Adaptive transmission logic, torque converter lock-up, manual mode selection.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF 2).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ETL-7045E or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1).
Body Styles:
Sedan (4-door), Coupe (2-door), Convertible (2-door), Touring (Wagon, 5-door)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in)
Length:
Approx. 4471 mm (176.0 in) for Sedan
Curb Weight Starting:
Approx. 1350 kg (2976 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 1800-1900 kg.
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
Likely 4 stars or 5 stars for driver and front passenger (based on contemporary E46 testing).
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Likely 'Good' for models equipped with side airbags.
Traction Control:
Available (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control and Traction).
Stability Control:
Available (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control) on later models or as an option.
Antilock Brakes:
Standard (ABS).
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), optional front side airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners.
Rollover Protection:
Automatic rollover protection system for convertible models.
Head Unit Options:
BMW Business CD, BMW Professional RDS, available CD changer.
Navigation:
Optional BMW Navigation system with CD-ROM based maps.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear park distance control (PDC).
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth integration for hands-free calling.
HVAC System:
Manual or automatic climate control, with optional heated seats and headlight washers.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval (VSI) system, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles (15,000-25,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-98 (LL-98) compliant synthetic oil, typically SAE 0W-30, 5W-30, or 5W-40 depending on climate and engine.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (P/N 82111468003) or Pentosin CHF 11S.
Cooling System:
Cracking of plastic expansion tanks, failure of water pumps (often plastic impeller), thermostat housing leaks.
Suspension:
Wear of front control arm bushings (bushings often fail requiring replacement of entire arm), rear shock mount failure, rear subframe cracking (especially on early models).
Electrical:
Vanós solenoid failure (causing rough idle or poor performance), ABS/DSC sensor failures, fuel pump failures, alternator issues.
Interior:
Sagging headliner, worn driver's seat bolster, pixelated instrument cluster displays.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, high-performance vehicles with advanced engineering.
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation succeeded the E36 3-series and was produced from 1998 to 2006.
E46 Design Philosophy:
Built upon the foundation of its predecessor, with a focus on improved handling, comfort, and technological advancement.
Production Years:
1998-2006 (model years)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary manufacturing in Dingolfing, Germany, with production also in Regensburg, Germany, and other international facilities.
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The E46 3-series was frequently featured on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists during its production run, particularly the 330i and M3 variants.
Motortrend Car Of The Year:
While not necessarily winning COTY for the specific year, it was a strong contender and highly regarded by the automotive press.
Reliability Rankings:
Generally good, but requires diligent maintenance. Issues like cooling system components and VANOS can affect reliability if not addressed.
