🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

323i

Model Variant:

323

Year:

2001

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code Primary:

M52TU B25 (inline-6)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Entry-level luxury sedan/coupe/convertible (E46 platform)

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35 (later models)

Vehicle Selling Points:

Sporty handling, refined interior, powerful inline-6 engine, BMW's reputation for driving dynamics and build quality.

Manual Benefit:

Empowers owners and technicians with accurate, manufacturer-level repair and maintenance data, reducing reliance on guesswork and costly dealership services.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, lubrication system, cooling system

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, fuel injection system (DME - Digital Motor Electronics), sensors, actuators, emissions control

Transmission Manual:

Gearbox internal components, clutch, shift linkage, hydraulic system

Transmission Automatic:

Transmission hydraulics, torque converter, valve body, electronic control unit (GM 5L40-E or similar)

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, CV joints, differential, rear axle assembly

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, wheel alignment

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake fluid, hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors, pads

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting system, power windows, mirrors, central locking

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion protection

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System), seat belts

Maintenance Tasks:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, belt inspections/replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, component testing

Repair Procedures:

Component removal and installation, rebuild procedures, adjustments

Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II), special tool usage

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers detailed disassembly, reassembly, and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality Assessment:

Digital PDF, allowing for clear on-screen viewing and printing of individual pages. Clarity of diagrams and schematics is crucial and expected to be high.

Binding Type For Physical Manual:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type For Physical Manual:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder (DOHC, 24 valves)

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

82.0 mm x 79.1 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Horsepower:

184 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

235 Nm (173 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME 7.2 or similar)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

Engine Control Unit:

DME (Digital Motor Electronics)

Emissions Control:

Dual catalytic converters, Secondary Air Injection System (SAI), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 250-5 or similar)

Optional Transmission:

5-speed Automatic Transmission (GM 5L40-E or similar)

Transmission Features Manual:

Hydraulically actuated clutch, close-ratio gearing for sporty driving

Transmission Features Automatic:

Steptronic manual shifting capability, electronic control for optimized performance and economy

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW recommends specific MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF 2)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

GM DEXRON III or equivalent (check specific VIN for exact specification)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 inches)

Length:

Approx. 4471 mm (176.0 inches) for sedan

Width:

Approx. 1739 mm (68.5 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 inches) for sedan

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs) depending on body style and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Check vehicle specific plate; typically around 1950-2050 kg

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 440 liters (15.5 cu ft) for sedan

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (for models equipped with side airbags and pre-tensioners, generally good for the era)

IIHS Frontal Offset:

'Good' rating for models tested (E46 platform generally performed well)

Active Safety:

ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), Traction Control (ASC+T)

Passive Safety:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front seat belt pre-tensioners, crumple zones, reinforced safety cage

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW Business CD or Professional RDS radio, optional CD changer, optional navigation system (MKIII).

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, parking sensors (optional), rain-sensing wipers (optional), automatic climate control.

Connectivity Options:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free system (limited functionality by modern standards).

Headlight Types:

Halogen projector headlights, optional Xenon HID headlights with auto-leveling.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system, or typically every 10,000-15,000 miles (15,000-25,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Around 60,000-100,000 miles (100,000-160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (standard vs. long-life iridium).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles (50,000-100,000 km) with BMW Blue Antifreeze.

Brake Fluid Change Interval:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil Specification:

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

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48) mixed with distilled water in a 50/50 ratio.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4.

Common Issues E46:

Cooling system failures (plastic coolant expansion tank, water pump, thermostat), VANOS solenoid issues, subframe mounting cracks (rear chassis), ignition coil failures, oil separator (CCV) system clogging, front control arm bushings wear, window regulator failures.

M52Tu Engine Specifics:

While generally robust, VANOS seals can degrade, leading to rough idle and power loss. CCV system maintenance is critical to prevent crankcase pressure issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Reputation:

BMW has a long-standing heritage of producing driver-focused, sporty, and well-engineered vehicles.

E46 Platform Introduction:

The E46 platform, succeeding the E36, was introduced in 1998 and represented a significant evolution in design, technology, and engineering for the 3 Series.

E46 Production Years:

1998-2006 (sedan, coupe, convertible, wagon variants)

E46 323I Production Years:

Primarily 1998-2000, with the 323i badge phased out in many markets for 2001 in favor of the 325i. However, the M52TU B25 engine continued in some markets or specific configurations for 2001.

323I Positioning:

The 323i was positioned as a mid-range engine option within the E46 lineup, offering a balance of performance and efficiency, sitting below the 328i and above the 320i.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The E46 generation of the BMW 3 Series was a perennial recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best list during its production years, including for the 2001 model year.