Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan
Brand Perception:
Sporty, refined, driver-focused luxury
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for balanced handling, precise steering, and engaging driving experience
Powertrain:
Smooth and powerful M54 inline-six engine
Interior Quality:
High-quality materials and driver-oriented ergonomics
Design Language:
Classic BMW 'flame surfacing' design with a timeless aesthetic
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, rebuilding, specifications for M54B30 engine (3.0L inline-6)
Transmission:
Repair and maintenance for both manual (Getrag) and automatic (GM 5L40-E) transmissions
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive system, differential, driveshaft, axles
Suspension:
Front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link, steering system, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Front/rear disc brakes (vented front, solid rear), ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, component location, diagnosis of all electrical circuits, ECU information
Fuel System:
Fuel delivery, injection system (DISA flap, VANOS), fuel tank, emissions control
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant flow, fan control
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, emissions sensors
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, chassis components
Body Electronics:
Lighting, power windows, central locking, interior electronics
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, belts, fluids
Troubleshooting:
Extensive diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually every component
Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilding
Restoration:
Guidance for refurbishing and restoring various vehicle systems
Diagnostics:
Includes procedures for using diagnostic tools (e.g., OBD-II) and interpreting data
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag GS5-39DZ)
Type:
5-Speed Automatic (GM 5L40-E)
Manual Gear Ratios:
1st: 4.235, 2nd: 2.531, 3rd: 1.670, 4th: 1.215, 5th: 1.000, Reverse: 3.906
Automatic Modes:
Sport and Steptronic manual shifting modes
Manual Fluid Type:
BMW MTF-LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF 2)
Automatic Fluid Type:
Dexron III H or Dexron VI (GM Spec)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 Stars (Driver), 4 Stars (Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for comparable models/years)
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction)
Stability Control:
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
Chassis Strength:
High-strength steel chassis and reinforced safety cage
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD or Professional RDS CD radio, optional navigation system (CCC)
Speaker System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (dual-zone)
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC)
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free preparation with cradle
Onboard Computer:
Standard, displaying fuel economy, range, and trip data
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-18 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific M54 recommendations)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) synthetic, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 type)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW P/N 81 22 9 407 765
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 High Performance
Common Issue 1:
Cooling system: Plastic expansion tank leaks, water pump failure, thermostat housing cracks
Common Issue 2:
Vanos (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid/o-ring failure leading to rough idle or reduced power
Common Issue 3:
Oil Vanos Seals (o-rings) deterioration causing low oil pressure on startup
Common Issue 4:
CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failure leading to oil leaks and rough running
Common Issue 5:
Subframe bushings and rear trailing arm bushings wear
Common Issue 6:
Window regulator failures
Common Issue 7:
Heater control valve failure
Brand Origin:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, founded in Germany in 1916
Core Philosophy:
Focus on performance, engineering excellence, and the 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos
E46 Generation:
Fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series
E46 Launch:
Introduced in 1998 for the 1999 model year, with the 330i replacing the 328i for 2001 model year in some markets.
Model Placement:
Positioned above the 325i and below the M3 within the E46 lineup
Production Years:
2000-2006 (E46 generation for 330i variants)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), South Africa, Mexico, Egypt