Segment:
Compact Executive Coupe / Sports Coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics seeking detailed information for the E46 generation BMW Coupe.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class (W208/W209), Audi A4 Cabriolet (B6), Lexus IS Coupe (XE10).
Vehicle Strengths:
Renowned driving dynamics, strong inline-six engines, premium interior, sporty styling.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical knowledge essential for maintaining and repairing these sophisticated vehicles, saving on dealership service costs.
Model Years Covered:
1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
Specific Models Covered:
323Ci, 328Ci, 330Ci
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system, engine management, transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, drivetrain components (driveshafts, differentials, axles).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS and DSC), wheel and tire information.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, body electrical systems.
Electrical And Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, diagnostic connectors, comfort electronics, body control modules (BCM), engine control modules (ECM/DME).
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine checks, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection and replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, sub-assembly disassembly and reassembly, internal engine repairs, transmission overhauls, suspension and brake component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues, wiring diagrams for electrical systems.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, electrical system schematics, engine performance data, dimensions and weights.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Transmission Type 323Ci:
5-Speed Manual Getrag S5D 250G
Transmission Type 328Ci:
5-Speed Manual Getrag S5D 250G
Transmission Type 330Ci:
5-Speed Manual Getrag S5D 310Z
Transmission Type Optional 323Ci:
5-Speed Automatic Steptronic (GM A5S360R/R)
Transmission Type Optional 328Ci:
5-Speed Automatic Steptronic (GM A5S360R/R)
Transmission Type Optional 330Ci:
5-Speed Automatic Steptronic (GM A5S360R/R)
Steptronic Functionality:
Allows manual gear selection via shifter or steering wheel buttons (where equipped).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF-LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF-2)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT 71141 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF1)
Length:
Approx. 177.1 inches (4498 mm)
Width:
Approx. 68.5 inches (1740 mm)
Height:
Approx. 53.7 inches (1364 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 107.4 inches (2729 mm)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 11.2 cu ft (317 L)
Curb Weight 323Ci:
Approx. 3307 lbs (1500 kg)
Curb Weight 330Ci:
Approx. 3461 lbs (1570 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (E46 platform generally)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (E46 platform generally)
IIHS Front Offset Impact:
Good (E46 platform generally)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) or Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) available on most models.
Braking System:
4-wheel disc brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard.
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), optional side airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners.
Head Unit Options:
Standard BMW Business CD, optional BMW Professional CD, navigation systems available.
Speaker System:
Typically 6-10 speakers; premium Harman Kardon audio system optional.
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC) available on some models.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control functionality.
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth preparation or snap-in adapters for mobile phones (e.g., BMW Assist).
HVAC System:
Manual climate control or automatic climate control with recirculation and cabin air filter.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 15,000 miles (12,000 - 24,000 km) or annually, based on BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Coolant Change Interval:
Initial change at approx. 4 years, then every 2 years thereafter. BMW Blue Coolant (G48).
Brake Fluid Change Interval:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) approved synthetic oil. Viscosity typically 0W-40 or 5W-30.
Engine Oil Capacity 323Ci:
Approx. 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters)
Engine Oil Capacity 330Ci:
Approx. 6.9 quarts (6.5 liters)
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW ATF DEXTRON III or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S is often used in later E46s, check specific vehicle VIN).
Common Issues Vanos:
Vanos (Variable Valve Timing) seals can degrade, leading to rough idle and power loss. Repair involves replacing seals.
Common Issues Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks and water pumps are prone to cracking and failure. Consider metal upgrades.
Common Issues Subframe:
Rear subframe mounting points on the chassis can crack due to stress. Reinforcement kits are available.
Common Issues Oil Pan Gasket:
Oil pan gaskets (oil pan seal) are known to leak over time.
Fuel Filter Part Number Example:
e.g., 13321439267
Cabin Air Filter Part Number Example:
e.g., 64312153079
Bmw Heritage:
Founded in 1916, BMW is renowned for producing premium vehicles with a focus on driving pleasure ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').
E46 Introduction:
The E46 chassis replaced the E36 generation. The coupe variant (E46/2) debuted in 1999, offering a more refined and performance-oriented experience.
Facelift Details:
The E46 Coupe received a facelift (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse) in late 2003, with updated exterior styling (headlights, taillights, bumpers) and interior refinements.
Production Years:
1999-2006 (for the E46 Coupe platform, specific model years 1999-2005 are covered by this manual).
Car And Driver Best 10:
The E46 3-series platform frequently appeared on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists during its production run.
Model Reliability Perception:
Generally good, though specific component failures (Vanos, cooling system) are noted. Maintenance is key.
Manual Certification:
This manual adheres to industry standards for automotive service documentation, providing accurate and actionable repair information.
