🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

X3

Year:

2004

Engine Variant:

3.0i

Generation:

E83

Chassis Code:

E83

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact Luxury SUV / Crossover

Key Competitors 2004:

Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class, Lexus RX, Acura MDX, Volvo XC90

Bmw Philosophy:

Designed to offer BMW's characteristic driving dynamics ('The Ultimate Driving Machine') in a versatile SUV package.

Design Philosophy:

Combines SUV practicality with BMW's sporty styling and performance cues.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Operation, Maintenance, Service, Basic Repairs

Estimated Page Count:

600-1000

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual, Service Manual, Repair Manual (Combined Coverage)

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanicals, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, engine management (DME), VANOS system

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission (Steptronic) operation, fluid, basic troubleshooting

Drivetrain Systems:

xDrive all-wheel drive system operation, differentials, driveshafts

Suspension Steering Systems:

Front and rear suspension components, steering system, wheel alignment specifications

Brake Systems:

Brake system components (discs, pads, calipers, ABS, DSC), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starter, lighting system, power windows, mirrors, central locking, fuse box diagrams, basic wiring schematics

Body Chassis Systems:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, chassis components

Climate Control Systems:

HVAC system operation, basic troubleshooting

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seat belt operation, basic safety features

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil change, filter replacement, coolant checks, brake fluid flush, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement

Basic Repair Procedures:

Bulb replacement, wiper blade replacement, battery testing and replacement, minor interior trim removal

Troubleshooting Guides:

Common symptoms and potential causes, diagnostic information (basic level)

Inspection Procedures:

Pre-drive checks, regular visual inspections of key components

Technical Depth:

Covers essential owner-level maintenance and basic repairs, suitable for DIY enthusiasts. While not a full factory service manual for complex diagnostics or rebuilds, it provides detailed guidance for routine tasks.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans, suitable for printing with clear text and diagrams

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

N52B30

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder

Displacement:

2996 cc (3.0 Liters)

Horsepower:

225 hp @ 6100 rpm

Torque:

214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME9.2)

Valve Train:

Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves

Variable Valve Timing:

Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing System)

Bore X Stroke:

85 mm x 88 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission

Drive Type:

All-Wheel Drive (xDrive)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.7 inches

Width:

72.7 inches

Height:

66.1 inches

Wheelbase:

108.1 inches

Curb Weight:

3836 lbs (approx.)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

5291 lbs (approx.)

Cargo Volume Seats Up:

23.2 cu ft

Cargo Volume Seats Down:

60.7 cu ft

Standard Wheel Size:

17 inch alloy wheels

Standard Tire Size:

235/55R17

Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5-star

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5-star

IIHS Front Offset Good:

Good

Dynamic Stability Control:

Standard

All Season Traction Control:

Standard (integrated with DSC)

Anti-Lock Braking System:

Standard

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (curtain airbags)

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Professional Navigation System with iDrive Controller (optional, standard may vary)

Audio System:

BMW Professional radio with CD player, optional Harman Kardon sound system.

Parking Assistance:

Front and rear Park Distance Control (PDC) sensors (optional).

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Bluetooth Interface:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface for mobile phones.

Keyless Entry:

Remote central locking and ignition.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Typical:

Every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, based on Condition Based Service (CBS) system or driving conditions.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 60,000 miles (check for specific ignition coil maintenance).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 Synthetic Engine Oil (BMW Longlife-01 or Longlife-04 approved)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 liters (with filter change)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 8.0 liters

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) brake fluid

Oil Leaks:

Common areas include valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, and crank seal.

Cooling System:

Water pump and thermostat failure can occur, leading to overheating. Expansion tank leaks are also known.

X Drive Transfer Case:

Potential for issues related to the transfer case motor or clutch pack with high mileage.

Power Steering:

Leaking power steering hoses or pump issues.

Window Regulators:

Plastic components in window regulator mechanisms can become brittle and break.

Suspension Components:

Worn control arm bushings and ball joints can lead to noise and alignment issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorsport:

BMW has a long history of performance engineering and motorsport success, influencing their production vehicles.

First Generation Launch:

The E83 X3 was BMW's second SUV, launched globally in 2003, targeting the premium compact SUV segment.

Design Origin:

Built on a modified 3 Series (E46) platform, sharing many components and driving characteristics.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in Graz, Austria by Magna Steyr.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Reviews:

Generally well-received by automotive press for its driving dynamics, though interior space and ride quality were sometimes noted as compromises compared to competitors.

Fuel Economy Epa Estimated City:

18 MPG (approx. with automatic transmission)

Fuel Economy Epa Estimated Highway:

24 MPG (approx. with automatic transmission)