🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Code:

E46

Year:

2001

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Codes Covered:

M54B25, M54B30, M52TUB28, M43TUB19, N42B20 (specific engine availability may vary by region and sub-model)

Transmission Codes Covered:

Getrag S5D 250G, ZF GS6-37BZ, GM A4S 325Z, GM A5S 360R, GM A5S 325Z

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible/Wagon

Brand Perception:

Known for sporty handling, premium interior, and advanced engineering

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Volvo S60, Acura TL

Driving Dynamics:

Rear-wheel drive bias, balanced chassis, responsive steering

Powertrains:

Inline-6 engines (M54 series) renowned for smoothness and performance, efficient inline-4 options

Build Quality:

High-quality materials and assembly typical of BMW

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All models, engines, trims, and transmissions for the 2001 BMW 3 Series E46

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, valve train, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection systems (DME), ignition systems, exhaust systems

Engine Management:

DME (Digital Motor Electronics) control unit, sensor diagnostics, actuator testing, emissions control systems

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox assembly, shift mechanisms, driveshafts

Transmission Automatic:

Transmission fluid changes, valve body diagnosis, torque converter, electronic control unit (EGS), shift solenoid testing, repair procedures

Drivetrain:

Differential, rear axle assembly, limited-slip differential (LSD) if applicable, hub assemblies

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, anti-roll bars, springs, wheel bearings

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, power steering pump

Brakes:

Brake system components (rotors, pads, calipers), hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), parking brake

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, lighting systems, power windows, central locking, ignition switch, fuse box layouts, relay functions

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, chassis structure, rust prevention, welding procedures

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant R134a, climate control unit

Infotainment And Comfort:

Radio systems, navigation system (optional), speaker systems, seat adjustment mechanisms, sunroof operation

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake pad inspection

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), live data analysis, component testing procedures

Repair And Rebuild:

Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel replacement

Installation Procedures:

Component replacement, sensor installation, accessory fitting

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for critical fasteners across all major components

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete vehicle overhauls

Level Of Detail:

Professional-grade, including detailed step-by-step instructions, diagrams, exploded views, and specifications

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variant 1 Name:

M54B25

Engine Variant 1 Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Engine Variant 1 Configuration:

Inline-6 (I6)

Engine Variant 1 Horsepower:

184 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine Variant 1 Torque:

235 Nm (173 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm

Engine Variant 2 Name:

M54B30

Engine Variant 2 Displacement:

3.0 Liters (2979 cc)

Engine Variant 2 Configuration:

Inline-6 (I6)

Engine Variant 2 Horsepower:

225 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine Variant 2 Torque:

300 Nm (221 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1 (M54 engines)

Redline Rpm:

6500 rpm (M54 engines)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Emission Controls:

Catalytic converter, secondary air injection (where applicable), EVAP system

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

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

Optional Transmission Type:

5-speed Automatic (e.g., GM A5S 360R / A5S 325Z)

Automatic Transmission Modes:

Sport and Manual modes (Steptronic on some models)

Manual Transmission Clutch:

Hydraulic clutch actuation

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III or equivalent (check specific model variant)

📐 Dimensions

Sedan Wheelbase:

2760 mm (108.7 inches)

Coupe Wheelbase:

2731 mm (107.5 inches)

Sedan Length:

4471 mm (176.0 inches)

Coupe Length:

4471 mm (176.0 inches)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120

Wheel Offset:

ET35 to ET47 (varies by wheel size and width)

Sedan Trunk Capacity:

430 Liters (15.2 cubic feet)

Curb Weight Sedan Approx:

1450 kg (3197 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

4 stars (driver), 4 stars (passenger) - *Note: Ratings can vary by testing body and year; based on general E46 data.

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good - *Note: Ratings can vary by testing body and year; based on general E46 data.

Active Safety Systems:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) on some models

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensions and force limiters

Chassis Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System Name:

Business CD or Professional CD radio, optional Navigation system (MK III/MK IV)

Audio Features:

AM/FM radio, CD player, optional CD changer, optional Harman Kardon audio system

Driver Assistance Features:

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

Connectivity Options:

Optional cellular phone integration (BMW Assist), optional navigation system

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control with air conditioning

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, based on BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system and driving conditions. Consult manual for exact recommendation.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 60,000 miles for M54 engines (NGK BKR6EQUP or equivalent)

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-3 years or as indicated by CBS

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 compliant synthetic oil, typically 0W-30 or 5W-30

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) mixed 50/50 with distilled water

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (low viscosity recommended)

Common Problems:

VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) seal wear, cooling system failures (water pump, thermostat, expansion tank), VANOS solenoids, PCV system issues (especially on M54 engines leading to oil consumption), oil separator failures, ignition coil failures, ABS/DSC sensor failures, subframe cracking (less common on 2001+ models but inspect), front suspension bushings/ball joints wear

Preventative Maintenance Recommendations:

Regularly inspect VANOS system, check for oil leaks, replace PCV system and oil separator as preventative measure, flush cooling system regularly, inspect subframe mounts

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Origin:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW), founded in 1916 in Germany

E46 Generation Period:

1998–2006 (facelift in 2001)

E46 Positioning:

Replaced the E36 3 Series, known for improved chassis dynamics and refinement

2001 Facelift Changes:

Revised headlights, taillights, bumpers, M-Sport package enhancements, interior trim updates

Production Locations:

Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), South Africa, Thailand, Russia, India, Mexico

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

E46 3 Series models frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best list during its production run, recognizing its driving dynamics and overall excellence.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings varied by year and specific component, with some model years receiving above-average ratings while others had average or below-average ratings, often due to specific known issues (e.g., cooling system, VANOS). The manual helps address these.