Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon
Target Audience:
Discerning drivers valuing performance, luxury, and all-weather capability
Key Competitors:
Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC, Lexus IS300 AWD
Drivetrain:
BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system for enhanced traction and stability
Engine Performance:
Smooth and powerful inline-six engine
Handling:
Renowned BMW handling dynamics, adapted for AWD
Build Quality:
High standards of German engineering and materials
Primary Coverage:
Full Service, Repair, Maintenance, Rebuild, Refurbishment, Restoration
Intended User:
Professional Technicians and Advanced DIY Enthusiasts
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine (M54B30), Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Ignition System
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (xDrive) System, Transfer Case, Drive Shafts, Axles, Differentials
Transmission:
Automatic Transmission (e.g., GM 5L40-E), Manual Transmission (optional), Clutch System
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension (MacPherson Strut), Rear Suspension (Multi-link), Steering System (Hydraulic Power Steering), Wheel Bearings
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes (Vented), Rear Disc Brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), Parking Brake System
Electrical Electronics:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting System, Power Accessories, Battery, Alternator, Starter, Instrument Cluster, Diagnostics (OBD-II)
Comfort Convenience:
HVAC System (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), Power Windows, Power Locks, Sunroof, Seats, Mirrors
Body Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Chassis Components, Corrosion Protection
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Belt Inspection/Replacement, Fluid Checks and Changes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Component Testing
Repair Rebuild:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair
Restoration:
Bodywork Repair, Interior Refurbishment, Component Refinishing
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic checks to complete overhauls, including wiring diagrams and torque specifications
Configuration:
Inline 6-Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2979 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 89.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valvetrain:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MFI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP)
Horsepower:
225 hp @ 5900 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
66 Liters (17.4 Gallons)
Type:
5-Speed Automatic Transmission (GM 5L40-E)
Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag S6-37)
Automatic Features:
Steptronic (Manual Mode), Electronic Control
Manual Features:
Hydraulic Clutch, Dual-Mass Flywheel
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW ETL-7045E / Dexron III (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW Manual Transmission Fluid (e.g., Pentosin MTF LT-2)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver), 5-Star (Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Frontal Airbags, Side-Curtain Airbags (optional/standard depending on market), Seat-Mounted Side Airbags (optional)
Seatbelts:
3-Point Inertial Reel Seatbelts with Pretensioners and Force Limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children)
System Name:
BMW Professional Radio, optional Navigation System (CCC generation)
Display:
Color LCD display (i-Drive controller in later models of this generation)
Audio System:
Standard Hi-Fi System, optional Harman Kardon Sound System
Stability Control Features:
DSC, ABS, Traction Control
Optional Features:
Bluetooth preparation, SiriusXM Satellite Radio readiness
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Indicator (VSI) system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum spark plugs: ~100,000 miles; Iridium spark plugs: ~60,000 miles (refer to manual for exact specification)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or as indicated by the condition of the coolant
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Typically a 'lifetime' fill by factory but recommended every 60,000-100,000 miles; Manual: Check manual, often around 60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 approved)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48)
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank failure, water pump leaks, thermostat housing leaks, radiator failure
Engine:
CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system issues leading to oil leaks/consumption, VANOS solenoid failure, oil pan gasket leaks, ignition coil failures
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings, rear subframe bushings, strut mounts, ball joints
Electrical:
Window regulators, blower motor resistor, ABS/DSC sensor failures, VANOS issues
Heritage Focus:
BMW's long-standing reputation for performance, driving dynamics, and build quality
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) represented a significant evolution for the 3 Series, blending sportiness with increased refinement and technology.
330Xi Introduction:
The 'xi' designation signifies BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system, first introduced for the E46 generation, offering enhanced capability for various weather conditions.
Production Period:
The 330xi model was produced from 2001 to 2006 as part of the E46 generation.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), also South Africa and USA (Spartanburg)
General Reputation:
The E46 3 Series, including the 330xi, was widely praised for its driving dynamics, build quality, and sporty character.
Consumer Reports:
Often received good ratings for reliability and performance, though specific model years and common issues are noted.
Automotive Journalism:
Consistently ranked highly by automotive journalists for its balance of performance, luxury, and practicality.