The BMW 3 Series, specifically the E46 chassis, produced between 1999 and 2005, represents a pinnacle of premium compact executive sports sedan and coupe design. Renowned for its driver-centric engineering, balanced chassis, and powerful inline-six engines, the E46 established itself as a benchmark for handling and driver engagement in its segment. This generation offered a range of acclaimed models, including the high-performance M3, the agile 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 330i, and 330xi, available in Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, and Sport Wagon body styles. Its commitment to performance and luxury earned it frequent accolades, including placements on prestigious automotive awards lists, solidifying its reputation as one of the best driver's cars of its era.
This comprehensive workshop and service manual provides factory repair information for the BMW 3 Series E46 models from 1999-2005. Covering engine codes M54B25, M54B30, and S54B32, this 1258-page English-language manual details all major vehicle systems, including powertrain, chassis, body, and electrical components. It offers in-depth procedures for scheduled maintenance, repairs, and diagnostics, complete with hundreds of detailed illustrations and photos. Designed for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics, this manual serves as an indispensable resource for understanding, maintaining, and repairing the vehicle, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Applicable Years:
1999-2005
Engine Codes Covered:
M54B25, M54B30, S54B32
Body Styles Covered:
Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Sport Wagon (Touring)
Segment:
Premium Compact Executive Sports Sedan/Coupe
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35
Engineering Philosophy:
Driver-centric design, balanced chassis, inline-six engine performance
E46 Platform Significance:
Considered a benchmark for handling and driver engagement in its class
Primary Coverage:
Factory Service Repair
Specific Models Covered:
M3, 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 330i, 330xi
Type:
Workshop Manual / Service Manual
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (RWD/AWD)
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes (including ABS/DSC)
Body:
Bodywork, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, HVAC
Electrical:
Full Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Accessories, ECUs
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), Fault Codes, Troubleshooting
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plugs
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake component replacement, suspension overhaul, electrical component repair
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex faults
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete vehicle disassembly and reassembly)
Illustrations:
Hundreds of detailed illustrations and photos
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts and experienced professional mechanics
Quality:
High-resolution PDF, searchable text
Printability:
Printable without restriction
Binding:
Digital Download (Printable PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
M3 Engine:
S54B32 (3.2L Naturally Aspirated Inline-6)
325I Engine:
M54B25 (2.5L Naturally Aspirated Inline-6)
330I Engine:
M54B30 (3.0L Naturally Aspirated Inline-6)
M3 Horsepower:
333 hp @ 7900 rpm
M3 Torque:
262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm
325I Horsepower:
184 hp @ 6000 rpm
325I Torque:
175 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
330I Horsepower:
225 hp @ 5900 rpm
330I Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) / Bosch Motronic
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
M3 Transmission:
Getrag 420G 6-speed Manual
325I/330I Transmission:
ZF 5-speed Manual
M3 Transmission Optional:
SMG II (Sequential Manual Gearbox) - 6-speed Automated Manual
325I/330I Transmission Optional:
GM 5L40-E 5-speed Automatic
Drivetrain Options:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD) available on select models (325xi, 330xi)
Wheelbase:
107.4 inches (2728 mm)
Length Sedan:
183.6 inches (4663 mm)
Length Coupe:
179.7 inches (4565 mm)
Width:
68.7 inches (1745 mm)
Curb Weight M3 Coupe:
Approx. 3,483 lbs (1579 kg)
Curb Weight 330I Sedan:
Approx. 3,400 lbs (1542 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-star (driver and passenger, for applicable models/years)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for applicable models/years)
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction)
Stability Control:
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) on later models
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, Side airbags (optional/standard depending on model/year)
Available Systems:
BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD, Optional Navigation system (MK III/MK IV)
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models
Parking Assistance:
Rear Park Distance Control (PDC) - optional
Phone Integration:
BMW Assist (optional, with telematics and emergency services)
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval (VSI) system, typically 7,500-15,000 miles (check oil condition sensor and condition-based service)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically 60,000 miles for standard models; M3 may vary.
Engine Oil Spec:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 approved synthetic oil, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-30 recommended (refer to manual for specific engine variant)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 formulation), 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 BMW High Performance Brake Fluid
Common Issues General:
Cooling system components (water pump, thermostat, expansion tank), VANOS system, VANOS oil line leaks, oil filter housing gasket leaks, subframe mounting points cracking (especially on early E46 models), rear shock mount reinforcement
Common Issues M3:
Rod bearing wear (crucial to address maintenance), throttle actuator failures (individual throttles), clutch wear, SMG hydraulic pump issues
Brand Focus:
Luxury, performance, and driving dynamics
E46 Generation:
Fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series, known for its significant advancements in chassis tuning and technology
E46 M3 Introduction:
Launched for the 2001 model year, featuring the high-revving S54 engine and distinct M-specific chassis components
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), South Africa (Rosslyn)
Car And Driver 10Best:
3 Series models frequently featured on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during this era.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
3 Series was a contender and winner in various years for its class.
E46 M3 Recognition:
Widely acclaimed by automotive journalists for its performance and handling, often cited as one of the best driver's cars.
