Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan
Brand Perception:
Sporty, luxurious, driver-focused, reliable performance
Key Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and engaging handling
Engine Performance:
Smooth and powerful inline-six engine
Build Quality:
High-quality interior materials and solid construction
Engine:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission repair, overhaul, and service
Drivetrain:
Clutch, driveshafts, differential, axles
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, steering components, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, ABS, DSC, brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, power windows, locks, mirrors, instrumentation, EWS (Immobilizer), DME (Engine Control Unit)
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, glass, seals
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system service and repair
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), testing procedures, troubleshooting charts, wiring diagrams
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Repair:
Component replacement, engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, electrical troubleshooting
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues
Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds
Refurbishing:
Guidelines for restoring worn or damaged components
Restoration:
Guidance for bringing a vehicle back to its original condition
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder (I6)
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2979 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 89.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valvetrain:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 valves, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
225 hp @ 6100 rpm
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SMPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Type:
6-speed Manual (Getrag GS6-37BZ)
Type:
5-speed Automatic (Steptronic - GM 5L40-E)
Manual Gear Ratios:
1st: 4.059, 2nd: 2.397, 3rd: 1.593, 4th: 1.208, 5th: 1.000, 6th: 0.854, Reverse: 3.456
Automatic Features:
Driver-selectable modes (Sport, Manual)
Manual Fluid:
MTF LT-1 or LT-2 (BMW Genuine)
Automatic Fluid:
Dexron III or Dexron VI (GM)
NHTSA Front Driver:
Good (5-star)
NHTSA Front Passenger:
Good (5-star)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Dsc:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, available front and rear head protection system (Air Curtain)
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Head Unit:
BMW Professional Radio, optional CD player, optional Navigation System (MKIV)
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC)
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard, aftermarket solutions may be available
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth mobile phone integration
Oil Change:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually
Spark Plugs:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type and condition)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW LL-01 approved)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48 Ethylene Glycol based) - 50/50 mix with distilled water
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (SAE J1703 or ISO 4925)
Vibration Misfire:
Common on M54 engines due to VANOS solenoid, vacuum leaks, or ignition coil issues.
Cooling System Failures:
Plastic expansion tank cracking, water pump failure (especially plastic impeller), thermostat housing leaks.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter housing gasket (O-ring).
Suspension Wear:
Control arm bushings, ball joints, rear shock mounts, subframe bushings.
ABS Dsc Module:
Failure of the ABS/DSC control module due to heat and vibration.
Window Regulators:
Motor failure or cable breakage in power window regulators.
Clutch Release Bearing:
Common wear item in manual transmission models.
Foundation:
Founded in 1916, BMW is renowned for performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) is the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series, known for its refined driving experience and iconic design.
330I Introduction:
The 330i replaced the 328i in the 3 Series lineup for the 2001 model year, offering increased displacement and power.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), South Africa, Austria
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E46 3 Series, including variants like the 330i, was frequently recognized on Car and Driver's 10Best lists.
Ward Best Engines:
The M54 engine family often received accolades for its smooth operation and performance.
Consumer Reports:
Generally rated well for reliability and owner satisfaction, with specific noted areas for improvement as per maintenance section.
