Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe.
Brand Perception:
Known for performance, luxury, and advanced engineering.
Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Acura TL.
Driving Dynamics:
Rear-wheel-drive bias, balanced chassis, responsive handling.
Powertrain Options:
Renowned inline-six engines.
Manual Value:
Essential for owners seeking to maintain and repair their vehicle effectively, offering significant cost savings over dealership service.
Engine:
Comprehensive engine diagnostics, repair, overhaul, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission service, repair, fluid changes, internal component overhaul.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, CV joints, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, hydraulic components, ABS, brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper overhaul.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, rack and pinion repair.
Electrical:
Full electrical schematics, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows, central locking, comfort systems.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, bumpers, exterior trim, glass replacement, rust repair procedures.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnostics, component replacement, refrigerant handling.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnostics and replacement, seatbelt mechanisms.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures, service intervals, fluid level checks, filter replacements.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation (DTC).
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.
Rebuild:
Engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including component specifications and tolerances.
Installation:
Component replacement and installation guides.
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostic procedures for electronic control units (ECUs) and sensors.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-cylinder
Engine Code Specific:
Likely M54B30 (3.0L) for 328i models, but manual will confirm exact variant.
Displacement:
Approximately 3.0 Liters (2979 cc)
Horsepower:
Around 225-231 hp @ 6500 rpm (depending on specific M54 variant)
Torque:
Around 214-221 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (depending on specific M54 variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SMI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 formulation)
Oil Type:
Synthetic Engine Oil, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-30 (refer to manual for specific BMW LL-01 approved oils)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (e.g., Getrag 260/6)
Type:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., GM A5S360R/A5S390R)
Manual Fluid:
MTF LT-2 or equivalent (refer to manual for specific part numbers/grades)
Automatic Fluid:
ATF LT 71141 or ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 (refer to manual for specific BMW part numbers)
NHTSA Frontal Crash:
Likely 4-star driver and 5-star passenger (typical for E46 generation in US testing).
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Likely 'Good' (typical for E46 generation in IIHS testing).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System.
Dsc:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control.
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, optional head protection airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or annually, using the Condition Based Service (CBS) system or as recommended by manual.
Spark Plugs:
Intervals vary (e.g., 60,000 miles for iridium plugs, refer to manual for specific type and interval).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (refer to manual for specific coolant and interval).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (BMW Heavy Duty Brake Fluid recommended).
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11 S or equivalent (BMW recommendation may vary, consult manual).
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank, water pump, and thermostat housing are prone to cracking; VANOS system seals can degrade.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing gasket are common leak points.
Suspension Components:
Control arm bushings (bushings and ball joints integrated) and rear subframe bushings can wear out.
Electrical Issues:
Window regulators, door lock actuators, and CCFL angel eye headlights can fail.
Heritage:
BMW is synonymous with 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' renowned for performance, engineering, and build quality dating back to the early 20th century.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) is considered a benchmark for its class, balancing luxury, sportiness, and technological advancements.
328I Positioning:
The 328i typically represented the mid-range sport sedan/coupe within the 3 Series lineup, offering a potent inline-six engine before the introduction of the larger displacement 330i models.
Production Period:
The E46 generation was produced from 1998 to 2006, with the 2004 model year being part of the facelifted ('LCI') version.
