Segment:
Compact executive sedan/coupe
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive platform, and engaging driving experience
Build Quality:
Typical BMW build quality, emphasizing premium materials and fit/finish
Buyer Profile:
Enthusiasts seeking performance, luxury, and refined driving dynamics
Engine:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, lubrication, cooling, ignition, exhaust
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission repair and overhaul
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, differential, axles
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, geometry, alignment
Steering:
Steering system components, power steering
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, ABS, service and repair
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, ECU diagnostics, lighting, charging system
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, climate control
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, symptom-based diagnosis
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic charts and procedures
Rebuilds:
Engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities
Depth:
Factory-level, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Horsepower:
184 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate)
Torque:
230 Nm (170 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (approximate)
Induction:
Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic ME7.2
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 stars
NHTSA Side Impact:
4/5 stars
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control + Traction (ASC+T)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500-10,000 miles or 12-18 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used (BMW Condition Based Service)
Spark Plug Interval:
Approximately 100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs (refer to manual for exact spec)
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30
Coolant Type:
BMW Premium Antifreeze/Coolant (blue ethylene glycol based, G48 specification)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MTF LT-2 (Manual Transmission Fluid)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF LT 71141 (Dexron III equivalent, but specialized)
Common Issues:
Coolant expansion tank leaks, VANOS solenoid issues, oil pan gasket leaks, CCV system clogging (leading to vacuum leaks and rough idle), window regulator failures, front control arm bushings
Brand Focus:
BMW's long history of performance-oriented, luxury vehicles
E46 Generation:
This is part of the highly acclaimed E46 generation (1998-2006)
323I Positioning:
Positioned as a mid-tier model in the E46 lineup, offering a balance of performance and economy compared to the 325i/330i
Production Years:
E46 323i produced from 1999-2001 model years. The 2002 model year typically refers to the M54 engine variant, often badged as 325i in many markets, however, this manual specifically targets the 323i designation for 2002 if it existed as a specific market variant or engine option.
