🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Chassis Code:

E46

Production Years Covered:

1999-2005

Applicable Body Styles:

Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Sport Wagon (Touring)

Applicable Trims And Engines:

M3 (S54 Engine), 323i (M52TU B25), 325i/xi (M54 B25), 328i (M52TU B28), 330i/xi (M54 B30)

Engine Codes:

M52TU B25, M52TU B28, M54 B25, M54 B28 (less common for E46 in US market, but possible), M54 B30, S54 B32 (M3)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Executive Car (Sports Sedan/Coupe/Convertible)

Bmw Philosophy:

The E46 represents a pinnacle of BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, balancing performance, luxury, and driver engagement.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Alfa Romeo 156

Driver Focus:

Renowned for its sharp handling, balanced chassis, and engaging driving experience across all variants.

Powertrains:

Excellent inline-6 engines known for smooth power delivery and characteristic BMW sound.

Design:

Timeless Chris Bangle-era design that has aged gracefully.

Target Audience:

BMW owners (DIY enthusiasts), independent repair shops, and anyone seeking detailed technical information for maintenance and repair of the E46 platform.

📋 Manual Details

Overall Scope:

Comprehensive workshop service and repair

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive, typically over 1500 pages (actual count varies by specific publication, but indicative of a full workshop manual)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), potentially printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Mechanical:

Engine mechanical (M52TU, M54, S54), cooling system, exhaust system, fuel system, lubrication system, emissions control

Drivetrain:

Transmission (manual & automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differentials, axles, transfer case (for xi models)

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension, steering system, power steering

Brakes:

Brake system (hydraulic, ABS), parking brake, brake component replacement and bleeding

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, ignition system, lighting system, starter, body electronics, instrument cluster, convenience features

Climate Control:

HVAC system, air conditioning, heater core, blower motor

Body Chassis:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, chassis components, frame repair (if applicable)

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, common faults and solutions

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection/replacement

Major Repairs:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement (struts, control arms), brake caliper/rotor replacement, radiator replacement, clutch replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting electrical circuits, diagnosing engine performance issues, using diagnostic scan tools

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, component clearances, electrical system voltages

Special Tools:

Identification and use of BMW-specific tools required for certain procedures

Depth:

Detailed step-by-step instructions, diagrams, exploded views, and technical explanations suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (typically)

Digital Quality:

High-resolution, enabling clear viewing of diagrams and text. Often searchable text within PDF.

Physical Format If Printed:

N/A (for digital product, but equivalent to bound manual for comprehensiveness)

Physical Format If Printed:

N/A (for digital product, but indicative of high-quality, durable content)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

M54B25:

2.5L Inline-6, 24 valves (Double VANOS), ~184-190 hp, ~175-180 lb-ft torque

M54B30:

3.0L Inline-6, 24 valves (Double VANOS), ~225-230 hp, ~214-220 lb-ft torque

M52Tub25:

2.5L Inline-6, 24 valves (Double VANOS), ~170 hp, ~175 lb-ft torque

M52Tub28:

2.8L Inline-6, 24 valves (Double VANOS), ~193 hp, ~206 lb-ft torque

S54B32:

3.2L Inline-6, 24 valves (Double VANOS, individual throttle bodies), ~333-343 hp, ~262-269 lb-ft torque

Redline Typical:

6500 RPM (M52/M54), 8000 RPM (S54)

Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential fuel injectors

Fuel Requirement:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

ECU Type:

MS43, MS45, MSS54 (for M3)

🔧 Transmission

Manual Options:

Getrag 420G (M3), ZF GS5-39DZ (non-M 6-cylinder models)

Automatic Options:

GM 5L40-E (5-speed automatic), Steptronic (manual mode)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch (manual transmission)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW recommends specific synthetic gear oils (e.g., Pentosin MTF LT-2 or equivalent, check manual for exact specs by year/model).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III/VI or equivalent specified by ZF/GM, requires specific filter and pan gasket replacement during service.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Typical:

107.4 inches (2728 mm)

Length Typical:

Sedan: 177.4-178.4 in (4506-4531 mm), Coupe: 177.4 in (4506 mm), Convertible: 177.4 in (4506 mm), Wagon: 180.3 in (4580 mm)

Width Typical:

69.1 in (1755 mm)

Height Typical:

Sedan: 55.7 in (1415 mm), Coupe: 53.7 in (1364 mm), Convertible: 53.5 in (1359 mm), Wagon: 55.6 in (1412 mm)

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 3300 - 3800 lbs (1500 - 1725 kg) depending on body style and engine.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Varies by model, consult specific vehicle VIN or manual.

Trunk Volume Sedan:

Approx. 11.7 cu ft (331 L)

Trunk Volume Wagon:

Approx. 14.8 - 47.7 cu ft (420 - 1350 L) with rear seats up/down

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (for applicable models/years, check specific reports)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for applicable models/years, check specific reports)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Asc:

Available Automatic Stability Control (ASC) or Automatic Stability Control + Traction (ASC+T)

Vdc:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) on later models and some earlier variants.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side airbags

Seatbelts:

Pretensioner seatbelts with force limiters

Rollover Protection:

Active rollover protection system for convertible models

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit Options:

Standard BMW Professional Radio, optional CD player, optional navigation system (MK IV).

Audio System:

Various speaker configurations available, including Harman Kardon premium sound system on some models.

Parking Sensors:

Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most models.

Phone Integration:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface and telephone preparation.

Rain Sensing Wipers:

Optional feature for automatic wiper activation.

Xenon Headlights:

Optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights for improved visibility.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system, using synthetic oil.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 100,000 miles for many M54 engines, but consult specific manual for exact intervals and plug type.

Coolant Flush:

Recommended every 2-4 years or ~30,000-60,000 miles, depending on coolant type and condition.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Typically every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil Type:

Full Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40, meeting BMW LL-01 specifications (e.g., Castrol Edge Professional OE, Mobil 1 ESP).

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 - 6.9 US quarts (6.2 - 6.5 L) depending on engine variant.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or a BMW-approved equivalent.

Ccv System Failure:

Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system failure leading to oil leaks and engine performance issues is common on M54 engines.

Cooling System Weaknesses:

Plastic cooling system components (expansion tank, water pump, thermostat housing) can become brittle and fail. Consider metal upgrades.

Vanos Issues:

Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) system can develop leaks or faulty solenoids, impacting performance and fuel economy.

Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:

Oil pan gasket and rear main seal leaks are relatively common due to age and material degradation.

Subframe Mounts:

Rear subframe mounting points can crack or weaken on some E46 models, requiring reinforcement.

Window Regulator Failure:

Window regulators are a frequent point of failure, especially on coupes and convertibles.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long history of producing driver-focused, high-performance vehicles, especially known for its inline-6 engines and rear-wheel-drive platforms.

E46 Generation:

The E46 replaced the E36 3 Series and was produced from 1998 to 2006 (with the E46 nameplate covering models up to 2006 in some markets), representing a significant evolution in design, technology, and driving dynamics.

Facelift Lci:

A significant Life Cycle Impulse (LCI) or facelift occurred for the 2001 model year, introducing updated styling (headlights, taillights, bumpers) and new engine options (M54 series).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), but also South Africa and other locations depending on market and specific model.

Key Variants:

The M3 (E46) variant, powered by the S54 engine, is particularly iconic and highly sought after.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

Multiple BMW 3 Series generations, including the E46, were frequently honored on Car and Driver's 10Best lists for their driving dynamics and overall excellence.

Motor Trend Car Of The Year:

While specific E46 models might not have won this directly, the 3 Series line has a history of accolades from various automotive publications.

Enthusiast Following:

The E46 remains highly regarded by automotive enthusiasts for its blend of performance, handling, and build quality, leading to a strong aftermarket support and club community.