Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon
Target Audience:
Drivers seeking a balance of performance, luxury, and practicality, with a focus on the premium segment.
Key Competitors:
Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC, Lexus IS300.
All Wheel Drive:
The 'xi' designation signifies BMW's intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system, enhancing traction and stability.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for BMW's signature sporty handling and precise steering.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW high-quality construction and interior materials for the era.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of the M54B25 engine.
Engine Management:
Diagnosis and repair of engine control unit (DME), fuel injection, ignition system, and emissions control.
Transmission:
Service and repair for the Steptronic automatic transmission and manual gearbox.
Drivetrain:
Service for xDrive all-wheel-drive system, differentials, driveshafts, and CV joints.
Suspension And Steering:
Repair and adjustment of front and rear suspension components, power steering system.
Brakes:
Service and repair of ABS, DSC, brake pads, rotors, calipers, and brake fluid.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting for lighting, power accessories, and body electronics.
HVAC:
Diagnosis and repair of climate control system, A/C, and heating.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, and chassis alignment.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, fluid checks and top-offs.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step guides for replacing major and minor components.
Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II code explanations, sensor testing, and actuator testing procedures.
Depth:
Factory-level repair information, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Horsepower:
184 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
232 Nm (171 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48)
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 approved)
Spark Plugs:
NGK BKR6EQUP (or equivalent)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transfer Case:
BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system (electronically controlled)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF 7045E (or equivalent ETL-7045E, ETL-8074)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent API GL-4 SAE 75W-80)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 Stars
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (for models with side airbags)
Traction Control:
Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side-impact airbags for front and rear occupants.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Audio System:
Standard BMW Business CD audio system; optional Professional CD/Radio and Hi-Fi audio upgrades.
Navigation:
Optional BMW Business or Professional navigation systems available, typically with CD-ROM based maps.
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear park distance control (PDC).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Key Fob:
Remote central locking and immobilizer system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or annually, based on Condition Based Service (CBS) system or driving habits.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific interval).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 to 4 years or per CBS recommendation.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Capacity:
8.0 liters (8.5 US quarts)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (BMW High Performance Brake Fluid or equivalent)
Cooling System Components:
Plastic coolant expansion tank, radiator, water pump, and thermostat housing can become brittle and leak over time.
Crankcase Ventilation System:
The PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve and hoses can clog, leading to oil leaks and rough idle.
Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:
Common due to aging seals and pressure build-up.
Oil Seals:
Front crankshaft seal (gasket) and valve cover gasket leaks are frequent.
Window Regulators:
Plastic components in window regulator mechanisms can fail.
ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:
Can fail, leading to DSC/ABS warning lights.
Heritage:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for engineering sporty, driver-focused vehicles with advanced technology.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) is considered a high point for the 3 Series, praised for its balance of luxury and performance.
Xi Introduction:
The 'xi' all-wheel-drive models were introduced to broaden the appeal of the 3 Series, especially in markets with varied weather conditions.
Production Period:
The 2001 model year falls within the mid-cycle of the E46 generation.
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The E46 3 Series often featured on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production run, highlighting its driving prowess.
Driving Enthusiast Magazine:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its handling, performance, and build quality.
