🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Variant:

M3, 323i, 325i, 328i, 330i

Model Code:

E46

Year:

2005

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Car

Brand Perception:

Sporty, luxurious, performance-oriented

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for balanced handling, responsive steering, and powerful engines

Performance Models:

M3 variant offers significant track-focused performance enhancements

Interior Quality:

Premium materials, driver-focused cockpit design

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Printable:

Yes

Compatibility:

WINDOWS and MAC

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Driveability, diagnostics, electronic control unit (ECU) functions

Engine:

Mechanical components, internal systems, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts

Ignition System:

Spark plugs, coils, ignition timing, troubleshooting

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure, fuel tank, evaporative emissions control

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications, bleeding procedures

Exhaust System:

Mufflers, catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, emission controls

Manual Transmission:

Clutch operation, gearbox removal and installation, gear ratios, fluid specifications

Automatic Transmission:

Torque converter, valve body, transmission control module, fluid specifications, overhaul procedures

Driveshaft And Final Drive:

Driveshafts, universal joints, differential, rear axle assembly, fluid specifications

Brakes:

Brake discs, pads, calipers, ABS system, hydraulic lines, bleeding procedures, brake fluid specifications

Suspension:

Shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications

Steering:

Steering rack, power steering system, tie rods, steering column, fluid specifications

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, HVAC system, body sealing

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, comfort electronics

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, brake service, belt replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical diagnostics

Repair:

Engine component overhaul, transmission repair, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component replacement

Installation:

Component replacement, accessory installation guidance

Depth Level:

Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission rebuilds

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, fault code interpretation

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of BMW-specific special tools

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable (standard for most modern PDFs)

Printability:

Designed for printing, high-resolution pages

Binding:

Digital download (N/A for physical binding)

Paper Quality:

Digital (N/A for physical paper type)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Lineup:

Inline-6 Cylinder Engines

Engine Code 323I:

M52TUB25

Displacement 323I:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Horsepower 323I:

184 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 323I:

235 Nm (173 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm

Engine Code 325I:

M54B25

Displacement 325I:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Horsepower 325I:

189 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 325I:

245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm

Engine Code 328I:

M52TUB28

Displacement 328I:

2.8 Liters (2793 cc)

Horsepower 328I:

193 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque 328I:

280 Nm (206 lb-ft) @ 3250 rpm

Engine Code 330I:

M54B30

Displacement 330I:

3.0 Liters (2979 cc)

Horsepower 330I:

225 hp @ 5900 rpm

Torque 330I:

300 Nm (221 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm

Engine Code M3:

S54B32

Displacement M3:

3.2 Liters (3246 cc)

Horsepower M3:

333 hp @ 7900 rpm

Torque M3:

350 Nm (258 lb-ft) @ 4900 rpm

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6, Double VANOS

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Requirement:

Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Oil Capacity Example 330I:

6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)

Oil Type Example:

BMW Longlife-01 (e.g., Castrol EDGE 5W-30)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G for M3, ZF for others)

Optional Transmission Type:

5-Speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (e.g., GM A5S360R/Z for non-M, ZF 5HP19/HP24 for some models)

M3 Transmission Features:

Close-ratio manual gearbox, M Sport clutch

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent high-quality synthetic GL-4/GL-5)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent Dexron III/VI compatible synthetic)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Sedan (4-door), Coupe (2-door), Convertible (2-door), Wagon (Touring - 5-door)

Wheelbase Sedan Coupe:

Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in)

Length Sedan:

Approx. 4471 mm (176.0 in)

Width:

Approx. 1751 mm (68.9 in)

Height Sedan:

Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 in)

Curb Weight Example 330I Sedan:

Approx. 1530 kg (3373 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model and configuration (consult manual)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5 Stars (for applicable models)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5 Stars (for applicable models)

IIHS Front Offset Crashworthiness:

Good (for applicable models)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) or Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T) depending on model/options

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, side airbags (optional/standard depending on trim)

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners

Chassis Structure:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System Example:

Optional BMW Professional Radio or Navigation System with CD player and optional Harman Kardon audio system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Park Distance Control (PDC), Cruise Control (standard/optional depending on trim).

Connectivity Options:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface for compatible phones.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system or typically every 10,000-15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific CBS recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Check every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace as needed based on condition. Manual will provide specific guidance.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or annually. Manual will specify.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium plugs, but consult manual for specific type and interval. M54 engines may have different recommendations.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW's specified hydraulic fluid.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV)

E46 Common Issues Vibrations:

Driveshaft flex disc (guibos) wear, center support bearing failure, rear subframe cracking, VANOS solenoid issues (M54 engines), oil separator (CCV) failure leading to vacuum leaks.

M3 Common Issues:

Rod bearing wear (especially on early S54 engines), VANOS system issues, subframe mounts, exhaust manifold cracks.

Cooling System Maintenance:

Water pump (plastic impeller failure), thermostat housing leaks, expansion tank cracks are common failure points.

Electrical Issues:

Corrosion on electrical connectors, ABS/DSC sensor failures, headlight leveling module issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand History:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) has a long history of producing premium and performance-oriented vehicles, dating back to the early 20th century.

E46 Generation:

The E46 generation of the 3 Series was produced from 1998 to 2006, representing the fifth generation of BMW's compact executive car. It followed the E36 generation and was succeeded by the E90/E91/E92/E93 generation.

Facelift:

The E46 received a significant facelift in 2001 (for the 2002 model year), which included updated styling, new engines (like the M54 series), and revised interior features. The 2005 model is part of the post-facelift era.

M3 Development:

The E46 M3, launched in 2000, is considered one of the most iconic M cars, featuring the high-revving S54 naturally aspirated inline-six engine and a bespoke chassis tuned for performance driving.

Production Years E46:

1998-2006

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; Regensburg, Germany; and Rosslyn, South Africa.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The BMW 3 Series (E46) was a perennial recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best award during its production run, recognized for its exceptional driving dynamics.

Ward S 10Best Engines:

The M54 engines (particularly the 3.0L) received recognition in the automotive press for their smooth power delivery and robust performance.