Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible
Reputation:
Sporty driving dynamics, premium build quality, advanced engineering
Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS
Driving Dynamics:
Rear-wheel drive bias, near 50/50 weight distribution, balanced chassis
Engine Technology:
Inline-six engines known for smoothness and responsiveness
Interior Quality:
Premium materials, driver-centric cockpit design
Primary Coverage:
Factory Service Repair
Additional Coverage:
Diagnostics, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair, Overhaul
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (Printable)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF implied, printable)
Powertrain:
Engine (M54B25), Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Driveshift, Differential, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS)
Electrical:
Engine Management, Body Control Modules (BCM), Lighting, Instruments, Infotainment, Power Accessories
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC System
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plugs, Fluid Checks/Flushes, Belts, Hoses
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Service, Electrical Component Diagnosis/Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing Procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and bodywork.
File Type:
PDF (assumed, digital format)
Searchability:
Likely searchable text within PDF
Printability:
High (designed for printing entirety or selected pages)
Binding For Print:
Not applicable for digital, but suggests bound format if printed
Paper Quality For Print:
Suggests standard paper for ease of printing
Configuration:
2.5L Inline-6 (I6)
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
184 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
235 Nm (173 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (approx.)
Injection:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), Electronic Throttle Control (ETC)
Octane Rating:
Premium Unleaded (91 AKI or higher recommended)
NHTSA Front Crash:
4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) (for early models)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Braking:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, optional side airbags
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones
Head Unit Options:
Standard radio, optional BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD with navigation (CCC).
Display:
Optional central display for navigation and vehicle information.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear Park Distance Control (PDC).
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface (SA 640).
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Indicator (VSI) system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.
Major Service Items:
Spark plugs (approx. 60,000 miles), coolant flush (approx. 30,000-50,000 miles), brake fluid flush (every 2 years).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic, BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved.
Coolant:
BMW Blue or G48 ethylene glycol coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
GM Dexron III or equivalent (check specific VIN for exact spec).
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank prone to cracking, water pump impeller can degrade.
Engine:
Oil filter housing gasket (OFHG) leaks, VANOS solenoid issues, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system clogging.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings (tend to fail), rear subframe mounts (can crack).
Electrical:
Window regulators, headlight condensation, ABS sensor failures.
Heritage:
BMW's legacy in producing driver-focused, performance-oriented vehicles dating back to the early 20th century.
Generation:
E46 generation, introduced in 1998, replaced the E36 3 Series.
Facelift:
Mid-cycle facelift in 2001 (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse) with updated styling and features.
Production Period:
1999-2005
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (primarily Dingolfing), South Africa, Mexico, Thailand
