Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Reputation:
Known for sporty handling, refined engineering, and premium feel.
Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS300, Infiniti G20
Driving Dynamics:
Rear-wheel drive platform, balanced chassis, direct steering
Powertrain Refinement:
Smooth inline-six engines, precise transmissions
Primary Coverage:
Service, Maintenance, Repair, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics
Model Variants Covered:
All 328i models, all engine variants, all trim levels, all transmission types
Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (M52TU B28), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Clutch, Driveshafts, Differential, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, DSC), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Engine Management System (DME), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting System, Instrumentation, Audio System, Power Accessories, Diagnosis (OBD-II)
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC System
Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacements (Oil, Air, Fuel, Cabin), Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flush, Brake Fluid Flush, Transmission Fluid Change, Differential Fluid Change, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Head Gasket Replacement, Transmission Rebuild, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Power Steering Pump Replacement, Alternator Replacement, Starter Motor Replacement, Radiator Replacement, Heater Core Replacement, Wiring Harness Repair, Sensor Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, Electrical circuit diagrams, Component testing procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed information on DME and other control modules, sensor data interpretation, troubleshooting electrical systems
Rebuild Procedures:
Full engine and transmission disassembly/reassembly specifications, torque values, clearances
Engine Type:
Inline-6, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2793 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 83.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Horsepower:
193 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
206 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch Motronic ME 7.2
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher)
ECU:
DME (Digital Motor Electronics)
Variable Valve Timing:
VANOS (Variable Valve Timing System) - Dual VANOS
Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 420G)
Type:
5-speed Automatic (Steptronic)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, single dry plate (Manual)
Transmission Fluid Type:
MTF-LT-1 (Manual), ATF Dexron III or equivalent (Automatic)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage
Audio System:
Optional premium audio systems (e.g., Harman Kardon), CD player, cassette player.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system (MK III or MK IV)
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Telematics:
Optional BMW Assist telematics system.
Oil Change:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (standard vs. long-life).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or every 2-4 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40, BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 approved synthetic oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV)
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack; water pump failure (often plastic impeller).
Suspension:
Control arm bushings (RTABs), ball joints, and sway bar links can wear out leading to clunking noises and poor handling.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing gasket are common sources of leaks.
Vanos System:
Leaking VANOS seals can cause rough idling, hesitation, and loss of low-end torque.
Electrical:
ABS wheel speed sensors, ignition coil failure, and microcontroller issues can occur.
Bmw Philosophy:
Ultimate Driving Machine, focus on performance, engineering, and driver engagement.
E46 Introduction:
Introduced in 1998 as the successor to the E36 3 Series.
E46 Chassis:
Marked a significant redesign with improved chassis rigidity, suspension geometry, and aerodynamics.
E46 328I:
Part of the initial E46 lineup, featuring the updated M52TU inline-six engine.
Production Period:
E46 production ran from 1998 to 2006.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Munich, Dingolfing, Regensburg), Austria, South Africa, Mexico, Egypt, Thailand, Russia, Indonesia
