Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Reputation:
Renowned for sporty handling, build quality, and refined engineering
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus IS200
Driving Dynamics:
Balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive architecture, responsive steering
Powertrain Options:
Inline-six engines known for smoothness and performance
Interior Design:
Driver-focused cockpit, high-quality materials, ergonomic layout
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, lubrication, cooling system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection (Siemens MS43), ignition system, electronic engine control unit (ECU), emissions control, Vanos (Variable Valve Timing)
Transmission:
Manual (Getrag 260/6) and Automatic (ZF 5HP19) transmission service, repair, overhaul, fluid changes
Drivetrain:
Clutch, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, tie rods
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid, hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, chassis frame, corrosion protection
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service and repair
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, restraint systems
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting, error code interpretation (OBD-II)
Repair:
Component removal, installation, and repair for all major systems
Overhaul:
Engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and complex issues
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to in-depth mechanical and electrical repairs
Detail Level:
Detailed exploded views, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, and procedural instructions
Configuration:
2.8L (2793cc) Inline-6 (I6)
Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 83.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Horsepower:
193 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
206 lb-ft (279 Nm) @ 3250 rpm
Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91-93 Octane Recommended)
Configuration:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder
Timing:
Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) on intake and exhaust camshafts
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/6)
Type:
5-Speed Automatic (ZF 5HP19)
Automatic Modes:
Standard, Sport (S), Manual (M) modes
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends specific synthetic manual transmission fluid (e.g., Pentosin MTF LT-2 or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 (or equivalent compatible fluid like Pentosin ATF1)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 stars (Driver/Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (for 2001 model year, indicative for 2000)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual recommends checks more frequently.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000 miles (check specific service recommendations).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as indicated by CBS.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 or BMW Longlife-98 specification recommended). Check owner's manual for exact BMW LL specification for this model year.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 US quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid.
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank cracking, water pump failures, radiator leaks, thermostat housing leaks.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, oil filter housing gasket leaks.
Suspension:
worn control arm bushings, ball joints, sway bar links, rear subframe bushings.
Electrical:
ABS/DSC module failures, instrument cluster pixelation, VANOS solenoid issues.
Interior:
Headliner sagging, door panel separation.
Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused luxury vehicles with exceptional engineering and performance.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) represented a significant evolution of the 3 Series, introducing more advanced technology, refined styling, and improved driving dynamics over its predecessor (E36).
328I Positioning:
The 328i was positioned as a mid-range offering in the E46 lineup, offering a potent inline-six engine that balanced performance and efficiency.
Production Years:
2000-2001 model years for the 328i with the M52TU engine.
