🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3-series

Chassis Code:

E46

Model Year Coverage:

1999

Generation Name:

Fourth Generation E46

Generation Introduction Year:

1998

Engine Codes Covered:

M52TU (Inline-6), M43 (Inline-4)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible/Wagon

Bmw Philosophy:

Represents BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy with a focus on performance, handling, and driver engagement.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus IS200, Alfa Romeo 156.

Driver Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive platform, and precise steering.

Build Quality:

High levels of perceived quality, premium interior materials, and robust engineering.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners and independent technicians with factory-level diagnostic and repair knowledge.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All E46 3-series body styles and engine variants for 1999 (e.g., 323i, 328i, 318i).

Repair Scope:

Comprehensive A-Z repair and maintenance procedures, covering all systems and components.

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Manual Classification:

Factory Authorized Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format Type:

Digital (PDF) / Printed (typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanicals (block, head, pistons, crankshaft), fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control (DME).

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission (Getrag S5D series), Automatic transmission (GM A5S series), clutch, driveshafts, differentials.

Chassis Systems:

Suspension (front strut assembly, rear multi-link), steering (hydraulic power steering), brakes (ABS, DSC, brake components, fluid), wheels and tires.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instrumentation, body electronics (BCM), comfort systems, diagnosis (OBD-II).

Body Systems:

Body structure, exterior panels, doors, glass, interior trim, HVAC system, safety restraints (airbags).

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, interval checks.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (DTCs), symptom-based diagnosis, wiring diagrams for electrical systems.

Repair Procedures:

Engine component replacement (e.g., water pump, thermostat, VANOS), transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal, electrical component testing and replacement.

Special Procedures:

Engine timing adjustments, fuel system component testing, advanced electrical diagnostics, chassis alignment procedures.

Depth Of Coverage:

Detailed technical specifications, torque values, clearances, diagnostic flowcharts, step-by-step repair instructions, and exploded views.

Diagnostic Tools Referenced:

BMW proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1, DIS) and general OBD-II scanners.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Searchable PDF with hyperlinked sections for easy navigation.

Print Clarity:

High-resolution diagrams, clear text, and accurate illustrations suitable for printing.

Physical Binding:

Durable binding (e.g., spiral-bound, perfect-bound) designed for workshop use.

Physical Paper:

Heavy-duty, laminated pages to resist grease and dirt in a workshop environment.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variant 1:

M52TU (2.5L/2.8L Inline-6)

Engine Variant 2:

M43 (1.9L Inline-4 - primarily 318i)

Displacement 2.5L:

2494 cc (approx. 152 cu in)

Horsepower 2.5L:

170 hp @ 5500 rpm (323i)

Torque 2.5L:

181 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (323i)

Displacement 2.8L:

2793 cc (approx. 170 cu in)

Horsepower 2.8L:

193 hp @ 5300 rpm (328i)

Torque 2.8L:

207 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (328i)

Displacement 1.9L:

1895 cc (approx. 116 cu in)

Horsepower 1.9L:

118 hp @ 5500 rpm (318i)

Torque 1.9L:

133 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (318i)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic fuel injection (EFI), Bosch Motronic ME 7.2 / DME 7.3

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Vanos:

Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) on M52TU engines.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission Standard:

5-speed Getrag manual transmission (e.g., S5D 250G)

Automatic Transmission Optional:

5-speed ZF Steptronic automatic transmission (e.g., A5S 325Z)

Traction Control:

Available ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) or DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) on select models.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-1 or LT-2 (equivalent to SAE 75W-90 GL-4/GL-5)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF LT-3 (Dexron III equivalent) - Critical to use correct fluid type.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2760 mm (108.7 in)

Length:

4471 mm (176.0 in)

Width:

1739 mm (68.5 in)

Height:

1371 mm (53.9 in)

Curb Weight Approx:

1450 - 1550 kg (3197 - 3417 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, consult manual for specifics.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Center Bore:

72.5 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4/5 stars (driver/passenger)

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable (for models tested prior to significant redesign)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional ASC+T or DSC.

Airbags:

Front driver and passenger airbags, optional side airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

BMW Professional CD/Radio, optional Harman Kardon sound system.

Navigation:

Optional BMW Business or Professional Navigation System with CRT screen and CD-ROM based maps.

Stability Control:

ASC+T or DSC available, improving stability and traction.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Telematics:

Optional BMW Assist telematics system with cellular phone integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Interval:

Around 60,000 miles for M52TU, potentially longer for M43. Specifics in manual.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Brake Fluid Interval:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil Spec:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-98 approved synthetic oil, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended.

Coolant Spec:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based), diluted 50/50 with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or CHF 202 (mineral oil based hydraulic fluid, NOT ATF).

Common E46 Issues 1:

Cooling system failures (water pump, thermostat, expansion tank, radiator hoses), VANOS solenoid issues (M52TU), subframe mounting point cracking, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failure leading to oil leaks and rough running.

Common E46 Issues 2:

Oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, ABS/DSC sensor failures, window regulator failures, blower motor resistor failure.

Tire Pressure Typical:

Refer to door jamb sticker; typically 30-32 PSI front/rear for standard sizes.

Torque Wheel Lug Bolts:

140 Nm (103 lb-ft)

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long history of producing premium, performance-oriented vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics.

E46 Introduction:

Introduced in 1998, the E46 succeeded the E36 3-series and represented a significant advancement in design, technology, and driving refinement.

E46 Variants:

The E46 platform spawned numerous body styles including Sedan (E46/4), Coupe (E46/2), Convertible (E46/2C), Touring (E46/3), and Compact (E46/5 - not covered in this 1999 manual).

Production Period:

1998-2006 (Sedan/Coupe/Convertible/Touring)

Key Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), Austria (Graz - Magna Steyr), South Africa, China, Thailand.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

E46 3-series was frequently named to Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production run for its exceptional driving dynamics.

Ward 10Best Engines:

BMW's inline-6 engines, including those in the E46, were often recognized for their smooth operation and performance.

European Safety Awards:

Likely received favorable safety ratings from European NCAP equivalent bodies.