Segment:
Premium Compact Executive Convertible/Coupe
Competitors:
Audi A4 Cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz CLK Convertible, Lexus IS Convertible (later models)
Vehicle Platform:
E46 platform, known for excellent chassis dynamics and driver engagement
Drivetrain:
xDrive all-wheel-drive system providing enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather
Body Style Advantage:
Convertible body style with retractable hardtop or soft top (E46 typically soft top), offering open-air driving experience
Target Audience:
Professional technicians and diligent DIY enthusiasts seeking comprehensive repair and maintenance guidance
Benefit:
Empowers owners to make informed decisions and perform maintenance/repairs accurately, reducing reliance on costly dealership services
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, ignition system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differentials, all-wheel drive system (xDrive)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (hydraulic and pneumatic components), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Engine control unit (ECU), ignition control, lighting system, instrumentation, infotainment, power accessories, battery, charging system, starter motor, wiring diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, convertible top mechanism and hydraulics, interior trim, seats, airbags, climate control system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections
Repair:
Component replacement, system diagnostics, troubleshooting, major component overhaul
Diagnostics:
Fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures, electrical troubleshooting with wiring diagrams
Disassembly Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for complete disassembly and reassembly of all major components and systems
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics
Data Type:
Step-by-step instructions, exploded views, high-quality diagrams, torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic flowcharts
Printability:
Full printable; individual pages or entire manual
Binding:
Digital (downloadable) - equivalent to a bound manual when printed
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format)
Zoom Functionality:
Yes (Zoom IN/OUT capabilities)
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Unzipping:
WinZip (or compatible archiving software)
Operating Systems:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Horsepower:
Approximately 189 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
Approximately 181 lb-ft (245 Nm) @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI), Electronic Throttle Control (ETC)
Ignition System:
Distributorless ignition system with individual ignition coils per cylinder (DIS)
Engine Control Unit:
DME (Digital Motor Electronics) control unit
Coolant Type:
BMW recommends BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent
Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag S5D 320Z or similar)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (GM Steptronic A5S 325Z or similar)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MTF LT-2 or equivalent (for manual gearbox)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent for early models, Pentosin ATF1 (BMW part number 8322 0024 249) or equivalent for later models
AWD System:
xDrive (Permanent all-wheel drive with electronically controlled distribution of torque)
Length:
Approx. 4471 mm (176.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1739 mm (68.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1382 mm (54.4 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1760 kg (3880 lbs) for 325xi Convertible
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2160 kg (4762 lbs)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test:
Not specifically rated for this convertible variant in all years, but E46 coupe/sedan achieved good ratings for its time.
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side airbags
Rollover Protection:
Active rollover protection system (deployable roll bars)
Radio System:
BMW Professional or Business CD/RDS radio options, some with integrated navigation (MKIII/MKIV).
Audio System:
Optional Harman Kardon sound system available.
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth mobile phone integration available on later models.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval Indicator (VSI) system typically recommends oil changes based on driving conditions, often around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Coolant Flush:
BMW coolant is designed for long life; typically recommended replacement around 4 years or 100,000 miles, but check manual for specifics.
Spark Plugs:
Typically iridium spark plugs with extended life, often recommended replacement around 60,000-100,000 miles.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW approved equivalent.
Differential Fluid:
BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G2 or equivalent (e.g., Mobilube HD 75W-90 or 80W-90, check specific diff type).
Ccv System:
Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system failure is a common issue, leading to oil leaks and rough running.
Cooling System Components:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack; water pump and thermostat failures are also not uncommon.
Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:
Oil pan gasket and rear main seal leaks are frequent due to age and material degradation.
Convertible Top Hydraulics:
Hydraulic system for the convertible top can develop leaks or pump issues over time.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's long-standing reputation for building sporty, driver-focused vehicles with advanced engineering.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation represented a significant evolution from the E36, introducing more refined styling, improved chassis dynamics, and advanced technology.
Convertible Development:
The E46 convertible maintained BMW's tradition of offering stylish and engaging open-top driving experiences, building upon successful predecessors.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Germany (e.g., Dingolfing, Regensburg) and potentially other BMW assembly plants worldwide.
