Vehicle Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible/Wagon
Brand Reputation:
BMW is renowned for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' emphasizing performance, luxury, and engineering precision.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35
Driver Focus:
The E46 generation is highly regarded for its balanced chassis, RWD bias, and engaging driving dynamics.
Engine Options:
Offered a range of sophisticated inline-four and inline-six engines, known for their smoothness and power delivery.
Coverage Scope:
All models and all repairs A-Z
Information Source:
Vehicle-specific, not generic
Intended User:
Dealership technicians
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Specific count not provided, typical for full service manuals)
Manual Classification:
Service and Repair Manual
Primary Language:
English
Digital Format:
Likely PDF (common for digital sales)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust, engine management (DME), emissions control
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission (Steptronic), clutch, drive shafts, differentials, axles
Suspension And Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, steering gear, power steering system
Brakes:
Front and rear brakes (discs), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake hydraulics, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, ignition system, lighting, body electricals, fuses, relays, control modules (ECU, DME, ABS, etc.)
Body:
Body structure, exterior panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning)
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Component removal and installation, sub-assembly repairs, major overhauls
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II), use of BMW-specific diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA/D), sensor testing, module programming
Depth Of Information:
Complete, from basic maintenance to complex system diagnostics and repairs
Wiring Diagrams:
Inclusion of detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all systems
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners and components
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for BMW-specific service tools
Digital Format Details:
Searchable text, hyperlinked sections, high-resolution diagrams
Diagram Resolution:
High-resolution for clarity of technical illustrations
Physical Binding:
Spiral-bound or perfect-bound (if printed), to lay flat for workbench use
Paper Quality:
Durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop environments
Engine Family Common:
M54 (e.g., M54B25, M54B30)
Engine Type Common:
Naturally aspirated inline-6 cylinder
Displacement Common:
2.5L (2494 cc) and 3.0L (2979 cc)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 184 hp to 225 hp for common M54 engines.
Torque Range:
Approximately 175 lb-ft to 214 lb-ft for common M54 engines.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Dme Model Common:
MS43 or MS45.1 for M54 engines
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Getrag manual transmission (GS5-39DZ)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed ZF Steptronic automatic transmission (GM5X5-R)
Rwd Drivetrain:
All E46 models are Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Optional AWD:
xDrive (All-Wheel Drive) available on select models (e.g., 325xi, 330xi)
Body Styles:
Sedan (4-door), Coupe (2-door), Convertible (2-door), Sports Wagon (Touring - 5-door)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 107.4 inches (2728 mm)
Length:
Varies by body style, approx. 177.0 - 184.5 inches (4496 - 4686 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3200 - 3600 lbs (1450 - 1630 kg) depending on model and configuration
NHTSA Ratings:
Generally good, with many E46 models achieving 4-star or 5-star ratings in front and side impacts (check specific year/test)
Stability Control:
Standard or optional Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control (ASC+T)
Braking Systems:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Front airbags, optional side-impact airbags, optional head protection airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners
Head Unit Options:
BMW Professional Radio, optional CD player, optional navigation system (CCC generation).
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon audio upgrade.
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface, typically integrated with the radio/navigation system.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Oil Service:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends oil changes every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Manual will detail exact intervals based on driving conditions.
Spark Plugs:
Typically every 60,000 - 100,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (standard vs. long-life).
Brake Fluid:
Recommended every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Coolant, typically lifetime or requires flushing/refill every 4-5 years or 100,000 miles.
Engine Oil Spec:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) depending on region and specific engine. Viscosity typically 0W-30 or 5W-30.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil specification (e.g., Pentosin MTF LT-2 or equivalent GL-4/GL-5).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ZF LifeguardFluid 5 or equivalent ATF.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrate.
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank and water pump are prone to failure. Inspect for leaks.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing gasket can leak.
Rear Axle:
Subframe bushings and differential mounts can wear, leading to clunking noises. Driveshaft center support bearing is also a common wear item.
Suspension:
Control arm bushings and ball joints are common wear items, affecting steering feel and tire wear.
Electrical Gremlins:
Water ingress into the footwell modules (e.g., GM5 module for locks/windows) can cause electrical issues.
Bmw Philosophy:
Founded in 1916, BMW has a long history of producing premium vehicles, particularly known for their sporty characteristics and engineering prowess.
E46 Generation:
Introduced in 1998, the E46 was the fourth generation of the 3-series, succeeding the E36. It was produced until 2006, with facelifts occurring in 2001.
Performance Variants:
Included iconic M models like the E46 M3, renowned for its S54 inline-6 engine and exceptional handling.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced at BMW plants in Germany (e.g., Munich, Dingolfing), with some assembly in other global locations.
Car And Driver Best 10:
The 3-series (E46) was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best awards during its production run.
Vehicle Dynamics Reputation:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its exceptional handling, ride comfort balance, and steering feel.
Owner Satisfaction:
High owner satisfaction ratings for driving experience and build quality, though maintenance costs can be higher than some competitors.
