🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Year:

2000

Chassis Codes:

E46

Platform:

E46

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW 3 Series E46 generation (1998-2006) represented BMW's strong entry into the compact executive sedan and coupe market, known for its driving dynamics and premium feel.

Competitors:

Competed directly with the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, and Infiniti G20/G35.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, responsive steering, and engaging driving experience, setting benchmarks for its class.

Build Quality:

Exemplary build quality and premium interior materials that defined BMW's reputation.

📋 Manual Details

Model Variants Covered:

323i, 328i, 328ci, 323ci, M3 (potentially, depending on specific manual edition)

Page Count:

Extensive (typically 1500-3000+ pages for comprehensive manuals)

Manual Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly; piston rings, bearings, crankshaft, camshaft, cylinder head, valves, timing systems, seals, gaskets.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection systems (Bosch Motronic), ignition systems, sensors (MAF, O2, TPS, etc.), ECU diagnosis and repair, emissions control systems.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox disassembly and reassembly, internal components, shift linkage, fluid specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, solenoids, transmission control module (TCM), fluid and filter replacement, troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, CV joints, differential, rear axle, propeller shaft, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, wheel alignment procedures.

Brakes:

Brake system components (master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pads), ABS system, EBD, parking brake, brake fluid replacement, bleeding procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, fluid replacement, troubleshooting.

Cooling System:

Radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant hoses, expansion tank, fan clutch, diagnosis and repair, fluid type and capacity.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, EVAP system.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, muffler, exhaust pipes, oxygen sensors.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, power windows, locks, mirrors.

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seating, dashboard, climate control system.

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting charts, common fault diagnosis.

Comfort Systems:

Power seats, seat heaters, sunroof operation, central locking, interior lighting.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed maintenance schedules for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups, and inspections.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing common wear items and major components.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic approaches to diagnosing and resolving common problems.

Rebuilding Procedures:

Comprehensive guides for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and other major assemblies.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems.

Technical Specifications:

Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, and more.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics).

Diagnostic Level:

Advanced (includes symptom-based diagnosis and component testing).

Repair Level:

Expert (covers component-level repair and rebuilding).

Wiring Diagram Detail:

High detail, allowing for precise tracing of electrical circuits.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Image Clarity:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and illustrations.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 323:

M52B25TU (2.5L Inline-6)

Engine Code 328:

M52B28TU (2.8L Inline-6)

Horsepower 323:

170 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque 323:

181 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Horsepower 328:

193 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque 328:

206 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Configuration:

Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves (per engine)

Variable Valve Timing:

VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual (Getrag S5D 320Z for 323i/ci, Getrag S5D 370Z for 328i/ci)

Optional Transmission:

5-speed ZF Steptronic Automatic

Transmission Fluid 323I Manual:

BMW MTF LT-1 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF 75W-80)

Transmission Fluid 328I Manual:

BMW MTF LT-1 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF 75W-80)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

BMW ATF LT 71141 or equivalent (e.g., ZF Lifeguardfluid 5)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

107.4 inches (2728 mm)

Length Sedan:

180.4 inches (4582 mm)

Length Coupe:

177.2 inches (4499 mm)

Width:

68.3 inches (1735 mm)

Height Sedan:

56.1 inches (1425 mm)

Height Coupe:

53.6 inches (1362 mm)

Front Headroom:

Approx. 39.1 inches (993 mm)

Rear Headroom:

Approx. 38.1 inches (968 mm)

Curb Weight 323I:

Approx. 3263 lbs (1480 kg)

Curb Weight 328I:

Approx. 3307 lbs (1500 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (Driver and Passenger)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Standard Automatic Stability Control (ASC) or Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) on later models.

Airbags:

Standard front dual-stage airbags, optional front side-impact airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit Options:

Standard AM/FM/CD audio systems. Optional premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon). Navigation systems were available on higher trims or as an option.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional Automatic Climate Control (auto HVAC) with digital display.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Phone Integration:

Optional Bluetooth preparation or integrated telephone systems on some models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or annually, or as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as needed, depending on driving conditions.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 100,000 miles for iridium spark plugs (typically fitted from factory on TU engines). Check specific engine variant.

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-98; SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil recommended. Consult manual for exact specification and viscosity based on climate and engine.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV)

Cooling System Leaks:

Common issues include cracked plastic coolant expansion tanks, failing water pumps (plastic impeller), and leaking hoses. VANOS seals can also degrade.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets are prone to leaking over time due to age and material degradation.

Rear Subframe Mounts:

Cracking or failure of the rear subframe mounting points can occur, leading to suspension noises and handling issues.

Window Regulators:

Plastic components in the window regulator mechanisms can break, causing windows to fall into the door.

Ccv System:

The Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system can clog, leading to increased crankcase pressure, oil leaks, and performance issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

BMW, founded in 1916, has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused luxury vehicles with a strong emphasis on engineering and performance.

E36 Predecessor:

The E46 generation succeeded the well-regarded E36 3 Series, building upon its sporting credentials and refining its platform.

E46 Introduction:

Introduced in 1998 for the 1999 model year in Europe and North America, the E46 marked a significant redesign with improved aerodynamics, a stiffer chassis, and updated powertrain options.

Production Period:

1998-2006 (E46 platform)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary production in Munich, Germany; Dingolfing, Germany; Regensburg, Germany; and contract manufacturing in various locations including Rosslyn, South Africa and Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA (for certain models/markets).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Best:

The BMW 3 Series consistently appeared on Car and Driver's '10Best' list during this era, highlighting its automotive excellence.

European Car Of The Year:

While not specific to 2000, the E46 platform contributed to BMW's reputation that earned it numerous accolades over its lifespan.