Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY Mechanics, Professional Technicians
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS
Drivetrain:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive System
Engine Variant:
Inline-6 Cylinder (M54B25)
Performance Orientation:
Sporty handling and driving dynamics
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Workshop
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Overhaul
Type:
Factory Authorized Service Manual
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain (xDrive AWD)
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Engine Management, Lighting, Instruments, Body Electronics, Comfort Systems
Body:
Bodywork, Interior, Exterior Trim, HVAC
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks/changes, Spark plug replacement
Engine Repair:
Cylinder head removal/installation, Piston/ring replacement, Valve train service, Timing chain/guide replacement
Transmission Service:
Fluid changes, Seal replacement, Clutch service (if applicable), Mechatronics unit (for automatics)
Drivetrain Service:
Transfer case service, Differential service, Driveshaft and CV joint maintenance
Brake System:
Pad/rotor replacement, Caliper overhaul, Brake fluid flush, ABS system diagnostics
Suspension Steering:
Component replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, tie rods), Wheel alignment procedures
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, Component testing, ECU troubleshooting, Sensor diagnosis
Troubleshooting:
Fault code interpretation, Symptom-based diagnosis, Diagnostic flowcharts
Depth:
Comprehensive Rebuild to Routine Maintenance
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures and specifications
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all fasteners
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of BMW-specific service tools
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6
Displacement:
2494 cc (2.5 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 24 Valves (4 per cylinder), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
184 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
235 Nm (173 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Bosch Motronic ME 7.2
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Electronic Ignition (DIS)
Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Recommended Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (e.g., Castrol Syntec 5W-30)
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag GS5-39DZ)
Type:
5-Speed Steptronic Automatic (GM A5S325Z)
AWD System:
xDrive Permanent All-Wheel Drive with DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (check specific fill)
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
Not Rated (Vehicle Pre-Dates Standardized Ratings)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (Structure of E46 platform is generally robust)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard
Traction Control:
Automatic Traction Control (ATC)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver, Passenger Front Airbags; Optional Side Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners
Chassis Design:
Reinforced safety cell
Audio System:
BMW Professional Radio/Cassette/CD Player, Optional Harman Kardon Sound System
Navigation:
Optional BMW Professional Navigation System (MKIII/MKIV)
Parking Assistance:
Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC)
Cruise Control:
Standard Cruise Control
Cellular Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface (via TCU module)
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control, Optional Heated Front Seats
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval Indicator (VSI) based, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 miles (check specific recommendations)
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles or annually
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (e.g., 5W-30 Synthetic)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (FMVSS 116 DOT 4)
Common Problems Engine:
CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failure, Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), VANOS solenoids, Vacuum leaks
Common Problems Cooling:
Water pump failure, Thermostat housing leaks, Plastic coolant expansion tank failure
Common Problems Suspension:
Front control arm bushings, Rear subframe bushings, Sway bar links
Common Problems Electrical:
ABS/DSC module failure, Window regulator failure, Pixelation on instrument cluster/infotainment screens
Common Problems Drivetrain:
Driveshaft flex disc failure, Transfer case actuator issues (for xi models)
Bmw Legacy:
Known for performance, engineering, and luxury driving experience.
E46 Generation:
Fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series, produced from 1997 to 2006.
Introduction Of AWD:
The 'xi' designation signifies the introduction of BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system to the 3 Series line-up, offering enhanced traction and stability.
Production Period:
1998-2006 (E46 Generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Munich)
