Vehicle Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan (Entry-level Luxury)
Target Audience:
Discerning drivers seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and handling, with a focus on DIY maintenance and repair
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35
Drivetrain:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive system providing enhanced traction and stability
Engine Performance:
Smooth and powerful inline-six engine known for its refinement
Handling:
Renowned BMW 'Ultimate Driving Machine' chassis dynamics and steering feel
Interior Appointments:
Premium materials, driver-focused cockpit, and available luxury features
Engine:
M54B30 Engine - Removal, Installation, Rebuild, Diagnostics, Tuning
Transmission:
Steptronic Automatic Transmission (GM A5S360R/A5S390R) and Manual Transmission (Getrag 420G) - Overhaul, Service, Diagnostics
Drivetrain:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive System - Transfer Case, Front Axle, Rear Axle, Driveshafts, CV Joints, Differentials
Suspension:
Front McPherson Strut, Rear Multi-link Independent Suspension - Component Replacement, Alignment, Bushings, Shocks/Struts
Brakes:
Four-Wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Fluid Flush, Caliper Service
Steering:
Hydraulic Power Steering System - Pump, Rack and Pinion, Fluid Service
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Coolant Flush and Replacement, Hoses, Fan Clutch
Fuel System:
Fuel Pump, Injectors, Fuel Filter, Fuel Lines, Pressure Regulation
Exhaust System:
Catalytic Converter, Muffler, Exhaust Pipes, Oxygen Sensors
Electrical System:
Battery, Alternator, Starter, Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays, Lighting Systems
Electronics:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Transmission Control Module (TCM), Body Control Module (BCM), DME (Digital Motor Electronics), ABS/DSC Modules, Diagnostic Port (OBD-II)
Climate Control:
HVAC System, Blower Motor, A/C Compressor, Refrigerant Service, Heater Core
Interior:
Trim Removal/Installation, Seat Removal, Dashboard Components
Body And Paint:
Body Panel Removal/Installation, Door Mechanisms, Bumpers, Fenders
Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacements (Oil, Air, Cabin, Fuel), Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Brake Service, Tire Rotation
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Diagnostics, Component Testing
Repair:
Engine Component Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair/Replacement, Bodywork Repair
Rebuilding:
Complete Engine Rebuild Procedures, Transmission Rebuild Procedures
Restoration:
Detailed instructions for bringing the vehicle back to original specifications
Diagnostics:
Extensive diagnostic procedures, including oscilloscope usage and signal tracing
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, and tolerances
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of BMW-specific or specialized tools
Rebuild Procedures:
Comprehensive step-by-step instructions for major component rebuilds
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
5-Star (for 2004 model year, driver and passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for comparable E46 models)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Dsc:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (curtain airbags)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters
Chassis Construction:
High-strength steel safety cage, crumple zones
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval Indicator (CBS) system typically recommends oil changes between 7,500-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as indicated by CBS
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (typically Bosch or NGK platinum/iridium plugs)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Coolant Flush:
Every 4 years or 100,000 miles (using BMW Blue coolant)
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) synthetic oil, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended (check manual for exact spec)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 US quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW's recommended equivalent
Cooling System:
Plastic cooling system components (expansion tank, water pump, thermostat housing) can become brittle and crack over time, leading to leaks.
Ccv System:
Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system can clog, leading to increased crankcase pressure, oil leaks, and potential engine damage.
Oil Pan Gasket:
Oil pan gasket and valve cover gasket leaks are common due to age and heat cycles.
Window Regulators:
Plastic components in window regulators can fail, causing windows to drop.
ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:
ABS and DSC warning lights can illuminate due to failing wheel speed sensors.
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, emphasizing performance, handling, and driver engagement.
E46 Generation:
The 3 Series E46 generation (1998-2006) is considered a benchmark for the segment, known for its balanced chassis and refined inline-six engines.
330Xi Introduction:
The 330xi variant introduced BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system to the 3 Series sedan, offering enhanced all-weather capability without significantly compromising the model's characteristic handling.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (e.g., Dingolfing, Munich)