🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

330i

Year:

2000

Chassis Code:

E46

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW 3 Series (E46) was positioned as a compact executive sports sedan, known for its engaging driving dynamics, premium interior, and strong performance, competing directly with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4.

Competitive Analysis:

The 330i represented the higher-performance, naturally aspirated gasoline engine offering in the E46 lineup for its model year, distinguishing itself with a potent inline-six engine and balanced chassis.

Key Features:

Renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, featuring excellent handling, a responsive engine, and a driver-focused interior. The E46 generation is considered a benchmark in its class for many automotive journalists.

📋 Manual Details

Comprehensive Coverage:

All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types for the 2000 BMW 330i

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific version, typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive workshop manuals

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

M54B30 (3.0L Inline-6), including diagnosis, repair, and overhaul

Transmission:

5-speed Manual (S5D 250G) and 5-speed Automatic (GM A5S360R/A5S390R) diagnostics and repair

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive system, differential, driveshafts, and CV joints

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, including struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, and alignment procedures

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system (ABS/ASC/DSC), brake fluid flush, component replacement, and bleeding procedures

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, and associated components

Electrical System:

Complete electrical schematics, component testing, fuse box layouts, lighting, starter, alternator, and battery systems

Climate Control:

HVAC system, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant recharging, and troubleshooting

Body:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, exterior trim, and body repair procedures

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, fuel tank, and evaporative emissions system (EVAP)

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, and coolant type specifications

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, and emissions control components

Safety Systems:

Airbag system diagnostics and replacement, seatbelt mechanisms

Infotainment:

Radio, CD player, and speaker system diagnostics and repair

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, cabin filter replacement, spark plug replacement, and fluid level checks

Engine Repair:

Engine tune-ups, valve cover gasket replacement, head gasket replacement, timing chain inspection and replacement (if applicable), piston and ring replacement, crankshaft and bearing replacement

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement (manual), torque converter replacement (automatic), transmission fluid and filter changes, internal transmission component repair

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, brake line replacement, ABS sensor replacement, and bleeding procedures

Suspension Component Replacement:

Shock absorber and strut replacement, control arm bushing replacement, ball joint replacement, and tie rod end replacement

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, component testing, and OBD-II scanner usage

Body And Interior Repair:

Door handle repair, window regulator replacement, mirror replacement, bumper repair, and trim panel removal/installation

Troubleshooting Guides:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, including starting problems, running rough, and electrical gremlins

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners during assembly and disassembly

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, optimized for digital viewing and printing of individual pages

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within the PDF for quick access to specific topics

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M54B30

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder, DOHC, 24 Valves

Displacement:

2979 cc (3.0 Liters)

Horsepower:

225 hp (168 kW) at 5900 rpm

Torque:

214 lb-ft (290 Nm) at 3500 rpm

Redline:

6500 rpm

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Bosch Motronic ECU

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag S5D 250G)

Transmission Type Optional:

5-Speed Steptronic Automatic (GM A5S360R/A5S390R)

Features:

Both transmissions offer smooth power delivery, with the Steptronic allowing manual gear selection. The manual gearbox is known for its precise feel and short throws.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.4 inches (4506 mm)

Width:

68.3 inches (1735 mm)

Height:

55.1 inches (1400 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.4 inches (2728 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3350-3450 lbs (1520-1565 kg) depending on transmission

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4300 lbs (1950 kg)

Trunk Capacity:

13.6 cubic feet (385 Liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

4-star (for 2000 model year)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

4-star (for 2000 model year)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Automatic Stability Control (ASC), optional Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, side-impact airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, crumple zones, reinforced door beams

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW Business CD Radio or BMW Professional CD RDS system, optional navigation system (MK III or MK IV).

Audio Features:

AM/FM radio, CD player, 6-speaker audio system, optional premium Harman Kardon system.

Driver Assistance:

Cruise control, optional rain-sensing wipers, optional Xenon headlights with auto-leveling.

Connectivity:

Limited by modern standards; typically includes provisions for a CD changer and an external antenna.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system if equipped.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every ~15,000 miles, replace as needed or every ~30,000 miles.

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace annually or every 15,000 miles.

Spark Plugs:

Replace around 100,000 miles (using high-quality iridium spark plugs).

Coolant Flush:

Replace coolant every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30 recommended.

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 US quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue/Green coolant concentrate mixed 50/50 with distilled water

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Power Steering Fluid or CHF 11S

Transmission Fluid Manual:

MTF LT-2 (BMW specific manual transmission fluid)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III or equivalent ATF

Known Issues:

Oil filter housing gasket leaks, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid and sealing ring issues, cooling system component failures (water pump, thermostat, expansion tank), ignition coil failures, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failure leading to oil consumption and seals leaks, ABS/ASC sensor failures, subframe cracking (rare but serious).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, has a long-standing reputation for producing premium, performance-oriented vehicles with a focus on engineering excellence and driving pleasure.

Model Evolution:

The E46 generation (1998-2006) represented a significant evolution from its E36 predecessor, featuring a more refined chassis, improved aerodynamics, and advanced technology. The 330i replaced the 328i as the top naturally aspirated gasoline model.

Production Years:

2000-2006 (E46 generation for North America)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany (Dingolfing and Munich)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The E46 3 Series, including the 330i, was frequently praised by automotive publications for its driving dynamics, handling, and powertrain. It consistently appeared on 'best of' lists from publications like Car and Driver and MotorTrend during its production run.