🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

323i

Model Code:

E46 (specifically for 323i variants)

Production Years Covered:

1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005

Engine Code Primary:

M52TU B25

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Entry-level luxury compact executive sedan and coupe.

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts and owners seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and handling; DIY mechanics looking for in-depth repair information.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202/W203), Audi A4 (B5/B6), Lexus IS300, Acura TL, Infiniti G20/G35.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive layout, and communicative steering, offering a sporty driving experience.

Build Quality:

Typical BMW build quality with premium materials and a focus on driver ergonomics.

Engine Performance:

The M52TU engine provided a good balance of power and refinement for its class at the time.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (likely PDF)

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive BMW E46 manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system components, emission control systems.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starter motor, alternator, ECU (DME) operation, sensor diagnostics, wiring diagrams for engine control.

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (e.g., GM 5L40-E) and manual transmission (e.g., Getrag 5-speed) removal, installation, overhaul, fluid specifications, and troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

Clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, control arms, struts, shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bars, alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnosis, ABS/DSC system, brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, parking brake, fluid specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, hydraulic fluid.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, lighting, fuses, relays, power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, starter, ignition switch.

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, HVAC system components, dashboard, headliner.

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning HVAC:

HVAC system components, refrigerant, AC compressor, condenser, evaporator, climate control module, blower motor, cabin filter replacement.

Chassis And Body Electrical:

Wiring diagrams for body control module (BCM), door modules, central locking system, convenience features.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid service.

Troubleshooting:

System diagnostics, common fault codes, symptoms and causes for engine, transmission, electrical, and chassis issues.

Component Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for repairing or rebuilding major components like the engine, transmission, steering rack, brake calipers.

Diagnosis:

Diagnostic procedures for various systems, including the use of diagnostic tools and interpretation of error codes.

Installation And Replacement:

Instructions for replacing various parts and components, from minor sensors to major assemblies.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive Workshop Level - Covers everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and component overhaul.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format) - generally allows for searching, zooming, and printing.

Digital Quality:

High-resolution scans or digital creations, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams. Searchable text is a key feature of quality digital manuals.

Binding For Digital:

N/A (Digital download)

Paper For Digital:

N/A (Digital download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated, Dual Overhead Camshaft (DOHC), 24 valves

Engine Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Engine Code:

M52TU B25

Horsepower:

189 hp (141 kW) @ 5900 rpm

Torque:

181 lb-ft (245 Nm) @ 3500 rpm

Redline:

Approx. 6500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic ME 7.2 or similar)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

Emission Control:

Dual catalytic converters, secondary air injection (on some models), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 260Z or similar)

Transmission Type Optional:

5-speed Automatic Transmission (GM 5L40-E)

Traction Control:

Available ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) on automatics, optional DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) on manual models.

Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:

BMW ATF LT-3 or equivalent (check manual for specific part number)

Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 Manual Gearbox Oil (check manual for specific viscosity and BMW approval)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 177.4 inches (4506 mm) for sedan, 173.6 inches (4409 mm) for coupe.

Width:

Approx. 68.5 inches (1740 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm) for sedan, 53.6 inches (1362 mm) for coupe.

Wheelbase:

Approx. 107.4 inches (2729 mm)

Seating Capacity:

5 passengers

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 11.7 cubic feet (331 liters) for sedan, 12.5 cubic feet (354 liters) for coupe.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3350 - 3500 lbs (1520 - 1590 kg) depending on body style and transmission.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Wheel Offset Range:

ET 40-47

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Good (for models equipped with side airbags)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Good (for models equipped with side airbags)

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good (for models with revisions)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available ASC+T or DSC

Stability Control:

Optional DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)

Airbags Standard:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Airbags Optional:

Side curtain airbags (later models), front side-impact airbags

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners

Head Restraints:

Active head restraints for front seats (on some models).

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Various BMW Business and Professional CD radios, with options for navigation systems (e.g., MKIV).

Audio System:

Standard 6-speaker system, with optional Harman Kardon upgraded audio.

Display:

Central LCD display for radio, climate control, and navigation (if equipped).

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear park distance control (PDC).

Bluetooth:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free functionality (requiring specific phone adapters in some early installations).

Auxiliary Input:

Rarely standard; often requires aftermarket modification.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, based on BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system. The manual will detail specific indicators.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 100,000 miles for iridium spark plugs (e.g., NGK BKR6EQUP).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles.

Brake Fluid Flush Interval:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil Spec:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-98 (LL-98) synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40 viscosity. Check manual for exact spec and viscosity based on climate.

Coolant Spec:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48), a silicate-containing ethylene glycol based coolant. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

BMW Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid. Do not use ATF.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) brake fluid.

Cooling System Leaks:

Common issues include cracked plastic expansion tanks, failing water pumps (plastic impeller), and degraded hoses. Thermostat housing leaks are also frequent.

Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:

Rear main seal and oil pan gasket leaks are prevalent due to age and material degradation.

Ccv System Failure:

The Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system can clog, leading to oil leaks and potential engine issues. Replacement is often recommended around 80,000-100,000 miles.

Suspension Wear:

Control arm bushings, sway bar links, and rear trailing arm bushings are common wear items that can affect handling and ride quality.

Window Regulator Failure:

Plastic components in window regulators are prone to breaking.

ABS Sensor Failure:

ABS wheel speed sensors can fail, causing ABS and DSC warnings.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Philosophy:

BMW, known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', focuses on performance, engineering excellence, and driver engagement.

E46 Introduction:

The E46 generation of the 3 Series replaced the E36 and was produced from 1998 to 2006. It was a significant redesign, focusing on improved chassis dynamics and refinement.

323I Positioning:

The 323i was positioned as a mid-range model within the E46 lineup, offering more power and refinement than the 320i/325i (depending on market) and a more accessible entry point than the 328i/330i or M3.

E46 Facelift:

The E46 received a significant facelift (LCI) around 2001/2002, which included updated styling (headlights, taillights, bumpers) and powertrain revisions (e.g., the introduction of the N52 engine in later models, though the 323i uses the M52TU).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary manufacturing plant was in Dingolfing, Germany. Also produced in various other BMW plants globally and under license in some markets (e.g., Rosslyn, South Africa; Magna Steyr, Austria).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The E46 generation, including models like the 325i and 330i, frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10 Best lists for its segment, highlighting its overall excellence.

Automotive Journalism Acclaim:

Consistently praised by automotive media for its handling, performance, and build quality, setting benchmarks in the compact executive segment.