🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

330i

Model Code:

E46

Year:

2001

Generation Name:

E46

Generation Years:

1998-2006 (Global)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Sports Sedan

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional technicians seeking in-depth repair knowledge for the E46 330i.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300, Acura TL.

Vehicle Usp:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, potent inline-six engine, and refined driving dynamics.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides official, accurate, and detailed technical procedures essential for maintaining and repairing the 2001 BMW 330i, ensuring proper operation and longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for 2001 BMW 330i

Estimated Page Count:

2000+

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual (Software)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (Likely CD-ROM or downloadable application)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

All aspects of the M54B30 engine, including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, timing systems, cooling, lubrication, and exhaust.

Fuel And Emissions:

Fuel delivery, injectors, fuel pump, evaporative emissions control (EVAP), catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, and emission control systems.

Transmission Manual:

Service and repair procedures for the Getrag 420G 6-speed manual transmission, clutch operation, and drivetrain components.

Transmission Automatic:

Service and repair procedures for the ZF 5HP19 5-speed automatic transmission, torque converter, valve body, and electronic control.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake calipers, rotors, pads, lines, and bleeding procedures.

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), power steering system, steering rack, and wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, and basic electrical troubleshooting.

Body And Frame:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, and basic body repair procedures.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant handling, diagnosis, and repair.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, and associated sensors and control modules.

Engine Control Unit ECU:

Diagnosis, programming, sensor inputs, actuator outputs, ignition timing, fuel control, and troubleshooting of the DME (Digital Motor Electronics).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, and wiper blade replacement.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed service intervals and procedures for major maintenance milestones.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair across all major vehicle systems.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Information on using diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA/D), reading fault codes, and performing system tests.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Guidance on tracing electrical faults using wiring diagrams and multimeter testing.

Depth Level:

Expert Level: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics, and electrical system troubleshooting.

Completeness Scope:

Official Factory Information: Reflects the data used by BMW dealerships and certified technicians.

📊 Manual Specifications

Software Type:

Proprietary or licensed software application, often with PDF or HTML components for repair procedures.

Digital Display:

High-resolution graphics, diagrams, and text optimized for digital viewing.

Digital Access:

Accessible via installed software or web portal depending on the specific licensing.

Digital Media:

Digital files stored on CD-ROM, DVD, or downloadable media.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M54B30

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder

Displacement:

2979 cc (3.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 89.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Horsepower:

225 hp @ 5900 rpm

Torque:

214 lb-ft (290 Nm) @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)

ECU Type:

Bosch Motronic ME 7.2

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 420G 6-Speed Manual

Transmission Type:

ZF 5HP19 5-Speed Automatic (Steptronic)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic Actuated Single Dry Plate

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Castrol SAF-XJ 75W-140 for some applications)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 (LF-5) or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.4 inches (4506 mm)

Width:

68.7 inches (1745 mm)

Height:

56.1 inches (1425 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.4 inches (2729 mm)

Curb Weight Manual:

Approx. 3351 lbs (1520 kg)

Curb Weight Automatic:

Approx. 3428 lbs (1555 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star

NHTSA Side Impact:

4-Star

Traction Control:

Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T)

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit Options:

Standard BMW Business CD or optional BMW Professional CD/Navigation systems.

Navigation:

Optional MK III or MK IV navigation system with CD-ROM map updates.

Parking Assistance:

Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC).

Phone Integration:

Optional BMW Assist with Bluetooth hands-free capability (depending on specific options and year revision).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable Service Indicator (VSI) system, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles (15,000-25,000 km) or based on driving conditions.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000-30,000 miles, replace as needed or per VSI.

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace annually or every 15,000-20,000 miles.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type, typically iridium)

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30.

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 US quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent (color-coded green)

Common E46 Issues:

Coolant expansion tank leaks, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid issues, oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket, front control arm bushings, rear subframe mounting points cracking (less common on sedans than coupes/tourings), CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system clogging.

Crankcase Ventilation System:

The CCV system can become clogged, leading to increased crankcase pressure and potential oil leaks or rough idling. Replacement of the CCV valve and associated hoses is a common maintenance item.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

BMW's long-standing reputation for building sporty, driver-focused vehicles with advanced engineering.

E46 Introduction:

The E46 generation replaced the E36 3 Series and was introduced in 1998, with the sedan and coupe versions being prominent in 2001. The 330i replaced the 328i as the higher-performance non-M model.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (primarily Dingolfing and Munich)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The E46 generation 3 Series, including models like the 330i, was a perennial recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' award during its production run, recognizing its outstanding driving dynamics and overall execution.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Generally rated as average to good in terms of reliability, with specific models and years showing varied results. Proper maintenance is crucial.