Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, BMW owners seeking detailed technical information.
Advantage:
Provides factory-level detail comparable to official BMW workshop manuals, covering diesel variants specifically.
Detail Level:
Extremely detailed, step-by-step instructions with diagrams, essential for accurate repairs and diagnostics.
Cost Savings:
Enables owners to perform their own maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs on dealership labor.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Workshop Procedures
Technical Data:
Torque Settings, Fluid Capacities, Specifications
Illustrations:
Detailed Diagrams, Exploded Views, Spare Parts Illustrations
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific release, but comprehensive (often 1000+ pages for full workshop manuals)
Type:
Workshop Manual / Service Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Engine rebuilding, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, timing, seals, gaskets
Fuel System:
Injection system, fuel pumps, injectors, fuel lines, diesel specific components
Ignition System:
Diesel glow plug system, control modules
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox (manual and automatic if applicable for Diesel), driveshafts
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, alignment
Braking System:
Brake calipers, rotors, lines, ABS, DSC
Wheels Tires:
Wheel specifications, tire pressure, mounting
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, fuses, relays, control modules (ECU, ABS, DME, etc.)
Bodywork:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, doors, windows, bumpers
HVAC:
Air Temperature Control System, climate control, A/C system
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark/glow plug replacement (diesel equivalent), fluid checks and changes
Engine Repair:
Engine disassembly, component replacement, rebuilding procedures
Transmission Repair:
Clutch replacement, gearbox overhaul
Brake System Service:
Brake pad/rotor replacement, brake fluid bleeding, caliper service
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, component testing
Body Repair:
Panel replacement, alignment adjustments
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics.
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1951 cc)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder Diesel
Induction:
Turbocharged, Intercooled
Power Output Approx:
136 hp (100 kW) @ 4000 rpm
Torque Output Approx:
280 Nm (207 lb-ft) @ 1750 rpm
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2926 cc)
Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder Diesel
Induction:
Turbocharged, Intercooled
Power Output Approx:
184 hp (135 kW) @ 4000 rpm
Torque Output Approx:
390 Nm (287 lb-ft) @ 1750 rpm
Injection Type:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDi)
Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 260/6 for M47, ZF S5-31/3 for M57 approx.)
Type:
5-speed Automatic (Steptronic)
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch
Gearbox Fluid Spec Manual:
Refer to manual for specific BMW ATF or MTF fluid specification
Gearbox Fluid Spec Auto:
Refer to manual for specific BMW ATF fluid specification (e.g., LT3 or LT4)
Euro Ncap Rating:
4 Stars (for contemporary E46 models, specific diesel variants may vary slightly)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) or Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional side airbags
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones
System Offered:
BMW Business or Professional CD/Radio systems, often with optional navigation (MK III or MK IV).
Features:
ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), Cruise Control (optional).
Features:
Optional CD changer, optional Bluetooth mobile phone preparation.
Service Intervals General
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval (VSI) system, typically 15,000-25,000 km (9,000-15,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for exact triggers.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 30,000 km (18,000 miles), replace as needed or every 60,000 km (36,000 miles).
Fuel Filter:
Replace every 60,000 km (36,000 miles) or as indicated by service messages.
Cabin Filter:
Replace annually or every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Engine Oil 320D:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40, API CF or ACEA B3/B4 specification (BMW Longlife-01/04 may be specified for later models, consult manual for exact spec for these years)
Engine Oil 330D:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40, API CF or ACEA B3/B4 specification (BMW Longlife-01/04 may be specified for later models, consult manual for exact spec for these years)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.
Common E46 Issues:
Cooling system components (radiator, expansion tank, water pump), VANOS system (petrol engines, but relevant for general E46 knowledge), rear subframe mounting points, oil separator/crankcase ventilation system (CCV), E46 specific diesel issues like glow plug failure or turbocharger issues.
E46 Diesel Specific Issues:
Cracked cylinder head on early M57 engines, turbocharger wastegate issues, injector problems, DPF issues (less common on early models without DPF).
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, emphasizing performance, engineering, and luxury.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series (produced 1997-2006) is considered a high point in design, handling, and build quality. The diesel variants, 320d and 330d, were crucial for expanding market appeal, particularly in Europe.
Production Period E46:
1998-2006 (for E46 platform, specific models covered 1998-2001)
