Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Touring (E-segment)
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6), Alfa Romeo 156
Diesel Variants:
Focus on the fuel-efficient and torque-rich 320d and 330d diesel engines, offering a compelling blend of performance and economy.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for BMW's signature rear-wheel-drive chassis, balanced weight distribution, and engaging driving experience.
Build Quality:
High standards of German engineering and build quality, characteristic of the BMW brand.
Powertrain:
Engine (M47D20, M57D30), Fuel System (Common Rail Diesel Injection), Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Drivetrain (Manual & Automatic Transmissions, Driveshafts, Differential)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS, DSC), Wheel Hubs, Bearings
Electrical:
Engine Management Systems (DME), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Battery, Alternator, Starter, Wiring Diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC System, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Interior Trim
Routine Maintenance:
Oil & Filter Changes, Air Filter Replacement, Fuel Filter Replacement, Cabin Filter Replacement, Spark Plug/Glow Plug Checks, Coolant Replacement, Brake Fluid Flush, Transmission Fluid Change
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhaul, Brake Component Replacement (Pads, Rotors, Calipers), Suspension Component Replacement (Shocks, Struts, Bushings), Steering Rack Repair, Drivetrain Component Replacement (CV Joints, Driveshafts)
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Fault Code Interpretation, Component Testing, System Diagnosis (Fuel, Ignition, Electrical), Live Data Analysis
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced diagnostics including component testing, circuit analysis, and use of diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA/INPA interfaces, although specific tool guidance may vary).
Repair Scope:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls, including bodywork and electrical system repairs.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Detailed schematics, exploded views, and step-by-step illustrated procedures for clarity.
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, Turbocharged Diesel
Horsepower Ps:
150 PS @ 4000 rpm
Torque Nm:
330 Nm @ 1750-2750 rpm
Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder, Turbocharged Diesel
Horsepower Ps:
184 PS @ 4000 rpm
Torque Nm:
390 Nm @ 1750-3200 rpm
Injection Type:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDi)
Turbocharging:
Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) on both variants
Curb Weight Kg:
1420 - 1470 (depending on body style and transmission)
Curb Weight Kg:
1480 - 1530 (depending on body style and transmission)
Sedan Boot Capacity Liters:
440
Touring Boot Capacity Liters:
435 - 1430 (with rear seats folded)
Euro Ncap:
4 Stars (for 2001 model year)
Braking:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all models. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) available on most models, especially the 330d.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) often integrated with DSC.
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger, optional side airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front belt tensioners and force limiters.
Service Intervals Oil 320D 330D
Engine Oil And Filter:
Variable Service Indicator (VSI) system. Typically, oil changes are recommended every 15,000 - 25,000 km or annually, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil.
Fuel Filter:
Recommended replacement every 60,000 km or as indicated by the service indicator.
Air Filter:
Recommended replacement every 40,000 - 60,000 km or as needed based on operating conditions.
Cabin Filter:
Recommended replacement every 20,000 - 30,000 km or annually.
Coolant:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) coolant. Replacement every 2-4 years or as recommended by the VSI system.
Engine Oil Capacity 320D:
Approx. 6.5 liters (M47D20)
Engine Oil Capacity 330D:
Approx. 6.5 liters (M57D30)
Engine Oil Spec:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) compliant synthetic oil (e.g., 5W-30, 5W-40).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
GM Dexron III or equivalent (specific BMW part number recommended).
E46 Diesel Common Problems:
Cracked plastic intake manifolds (M47), turbocharger issues (VGT vanes sticking), swirl flap failures, injector seal leaks, DMF (Dual Mass Flywheel) wear, injector pump leaks, glow plug issues, oil cooler leaks.
E46 Diesel Common Problems 2:
Cooling system leaks (water pump, radiator, hoses), exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve issues, diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues (though less common on early E46 models, some later ones may have it).
