E46 Market Segment:
Entry-level luxury/sport sedan, coupe, convertible, and wagon market.
E46 Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS (XE10), Infiniti G20/G35, Acura TL.
E46 Defining Characteristics:
Rear-wheel drive bias, excellent handling dynamics (balanced chassis), refined inline-six engines, premium interior appointments, advanced technologies for its time.
Manual Benefit:
Enables owners and technicians to perform detailed maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs, potentially saving significant costs associated with dealership service and increasing vehicle longevity and performance.
Vehicle Variants Covered:
M3, 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 330i, 330xi, Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Sport Wagon
Model Years Covered:
1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
Estimated Page Count:
Likely 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era and scope)
Manual Type:
Workshop Repair Manual / Service Manual
Major Systems:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Management, Drivetrain (Transmission, Driveshafts, Differential), Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Bodywork, Interior Systems, Electrical Systems, HVAC, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, OBD-II Diagnostics
Electrical Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems, crucial for diagnosing electrical faults.
Body And Trim:
Procedures for removing and installing interior trim panels, exterior body panels, bumpers, doors, windows, and convertible tops.
Body Equipment:
Details on sunroof operation, power windows, central locking systems, and seat adjustment mechanisms.
Accessories:
Information on factory-installed accessories and their servicing.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilding, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical troubleshooting, body panel repair, interior trim removal, diagnostic code interpretation, routine maintenance
OBD Diagnostics:
Information on OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) systems, including common diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), their meanings, and troubleshooting procedures.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complex diagnostics, component replacement, and full overhauls. Includes detailed step-by-step instructions and specifications.
Engine Management Depth:
Detailed coverage of DME (Digital Motor Electronics) systems, sensor functions, fuel injection strategies, ignition timing, and emission control systems.
Suspension Steering Brakes Depth:
In-depth explanation of multi-link suspension systems, power steering mechanisms, ABS, and DSC component testing and repair.
PDF Compatibility:
Compatible with all versions of Windows & Mac
Reader Requirement:
Adobe PDF Reader
Searchability:
Likely includes a searchable PDF text layer, allowing for quick location of specific topics.
Print Usability:
Likely high-quality, allowing for clear printing of diagrams and text for workshop use.
Digital Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Digital Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
E46 Engine Options Overview:
Inline 4-cylinder (e.g., M43 for earlier 320i, not explicitly listed but possible in some markets) and Inline 6-cylinder (M52TU, M54, S54 for M3).
323I Engine Specs:
2.5L M52TU B25 inline-6, approx. 170 hp @ 5500 rpm, 180 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm.
325I Engine Specs:
2.5L M54 B25 inline-6, approx. 184 hp @ 6000 rpm, 175 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm.
328I Engine Specs:
2.8L M52TU B28 inline-6, approx. 193 hp @ 5500 rpm, 206 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm.
330I Engine Specs:
3.0L M54 B30 inline-6, approx. 225 hp @ 5900 rpm, 214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm.
M3 Engine Specs:
3.2L S54 B32 inline-6, approx. 333 hp @ 7900 rpm, 262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm.
Fuel Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)
E46 Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual (Getrag Type D for most models), 6-speed Manual for M3.
E46 Optional Transmission:
5-speed Automatic (Steptronic/SMG for M3 variants)
Transmission Features:
Rear-wheel drive or xDrive (all-wheel drive for xi models). SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) available on some M3 and 330Ci models.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends specific MTF LT-2 or LT-3 fluids, or equivalent high-quality synthetic gear oil with appropriate viscosity (e.g., 75W-90 GL-4/GL-5).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT 71141 or equivalent. Fluid changes are typically not scheduled but are often recommended by enthusiasts and specialists.
E46 Sedan Length:
Approx. 177.4 inches (4506 mm)
E46 Coupe Length:
Approx. 176.7 inches (4488 mm)
E46 Convertible Length:
Approx. 177.4 inches (4506 mm)
E46 Wagon Length:
Approx. 181.1 inches (4600 mm)
E46 Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3200 - 3700 lbs (1450 - 1680 kg), depending on model and configuration.
E46 M3 Curb Weight:
Approx. 3415 lbs (1550 kg)
E46 NHTSA Ratings:
Generally good for its time, with frontal crash test results often rated as 4 or 5 stars. Side impact and rollover ratings may vary by body style and year.
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (ASC+T).
Passive Safety Systems:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (HPS), three-point seat belts with pretensioners.
E46 Infotainment Systems:
Optional professional navigation systems with CD-ROM maps, cassette player, AM/FM radio, optional Harman Kardon audio system. Earlier models might have simpler stereo systems.
E46 Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, parking sensors (rear, optional), rain-sensing wipers (optional), Xenon headlights (optional).
E46 Connectivity Features:
Optional Bluetooth preparation for mobile phones (requires adapter for later phones), CD changer input.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 to 15,000 miles (12,000 to 24,000 km) or as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system, depending on driving conditions.
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plugs: 60,000-100,000 miles. Coolant flush: 30,000-50,000 miles. Brake fluid flush: Every 2 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SN, ACEA A3/B4 or BMW Longlife-01 approved synthetic oil. Viscosities commonly 5W-30 or 5W-40, depending on engine and climate.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue (G48) or Green (VDK) Antifreeze/Coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4, BMW Super DOT 4.
Common E46 Issues Engine:
Oil filter housing gasket leaks, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failure leading to oil consumption and rough running, VANOS solenoid issues, misfires due to ignition coil or spark plug failure, coolant expansion tank failure (plastic brittle).
Common E46 Issues Chassis Suspension:
Front control arm bushings (bushing separation), rear subframe cracking (structural issue requiring reinforcement), wagon rear hatch struts failure, strut mount wear.
Common E46 Issues Electrical:
Instrument cluster dead pixels, ABS/DSC module failures, window regulator failures, headlight condensation, blower motor resistor failure.
Common E46 Issues Cooling:
Plastic radiator failure, water pump failure (often plastic impeller), thermostat housing leaks.
Bmw Heritage Focus:
Renowned for engineering excellence, sporting character, and driver-focused vehicles.
E46 Development Context:
Successor to the highly acclaimed E36 3 Series, the E46 aimed to build upon its predecessor's strengths with improved refinement, technology, and performance. It was a critical and commercial success.
E46 Production Period:
1998-2006 (Sedans phased out in 2005, coupes/convertibles/wagons continued into 2006 in some markets).
E46 Manufacturing Locations:
Primary manufacturing in Dingolfing, Germany, with some assembly in other locations globally.
