Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiast drivers, DIY mechanics, BMW owners seeking in-depth technical knowledge
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for balanced chassis, precise steering, and engaging driving experience
Powertrain:
Smooth and powerful M54 inline-six engine, excellent performance for its class
Build Quality:
High-quality interior materials and robust German engineering
Engine:
Complete Engine Overhaul, Tuning, Diagnostics, M54B30 Specifics
Transmission:
Automatic (GM A5S360R), Manual (Getrag 420G) Removal, Installation, Overhaul, Fluid Service
Drivetrain:
Rear Wheel Drive System, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles
Suspension:
Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Multi-link Suspension, Bushings, Shocks, Springs, Alignment Procedures
Brakes:
Front and Rear Disc Brakes, ABS System, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) Servicing, Fluid Flush
Electrical:
Complete Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Starting System, Charging System, ECU Diagnostics, Sensor Testing, Body Control Modules
HVAC:
Climate Control System, Refrigerant Service, Blower Motor, Heater Core, A/C Compressor
Bodywork:
Body Panel Removal and Installation, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior Trim
Diagnostics:
OBD-II Diagnostics, Fault Code Interpretation, Live Data Stream Analysis, Component Testing
Estimated Pages:
~1500-2000 (typical for a comprehensive E46 manual)
Type:
Full Service & Repair Manual
Engine Management:
VANOS System, DME (Digital Motor Electronics), Ignition System, Fuel Injection System (Bosch Motronic ME7.2)
Chassis Control:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)
Comfort Systems:
Central Locking, Power Windows, Sunroof Operation, Seat Adjustment, Cruise Control
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Coolant Flush, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Belt Replacement
Repair:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhauls, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Rebuilds Restorations:
Detailed instructions for complete engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds, including torque specifications and assembly sequences
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete mechanical and electrical system overhauls, including component-level diagnostics and repair.
Engine Configuration:
3.0L (2979 cc) Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
89.6 mm x 80.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 Valves (4 per cylinder), Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
225 hp @ 5,900 rpm
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher)
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G)
Type:
5-Speed Steptronic Automatic (GM A5S360R)
Manual Gear Ratios:
1st: 4.23, 2nd: 2.52, 3rd: 1.67, 4th: 1.22, 5th: 1.00, Reverse: 3.93
Automatic Gear Ratios:
1st: 3.42, 2nd: 2.14, 3rd: 1.41, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.74, Reverse: 3.14
Clutch:
Hydraulic, single dry plate (Manual Transmission)
Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW LT-3 or equivalent (Manual); ATF Dexron III or equivalent (Automatic)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (Driver/Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for vehicles of its era)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) / Optional DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), Optional front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD or Professional RDS CD/Cassette player with optional CD changer. Harman Kardon audio system available.
Navigation:
Optional BMW Professional Navigation System (MK III or MK IV)
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Parking Assist:
Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC)
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth mobile phone preparation with cradle
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system recommends intervals typically between 10,000-15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first, but manual will detail specific checks.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium spark plugs (check manual for exact interval and part numbers).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as indicated by CBS.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic, BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved (e.g., Castrol EDGE Professional OE BMW LL-01)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 US quarts (6.2 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (P/N 83 29 0 429 576) or Pentosin CHF 11S
Cooling System:
Water pump failures (plastic impeller prone to cracking), thermostat failures, expansion tank leaks, cooling hose degradation.
Engine:
VANOS solenoid failure (leading to rough idle, loss of power), CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system clogging (can cause oil leaks), oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings (bushing separation), rear shock mount failure, strut bearing wear.
Electrical:
ABS/DSC sensor failures, alternator bearing noise, fuel pump failure, ignition coil failures.
Interior:
Pixelated LCD displays (dashboard and radio), headliner sagging, door panel vapor barriers failing.
Bmw Heritage:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is a German luxury vehicle manufacturer founded in 1916, renowned for its performance-oriented vehicles and driving pleasure ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series debuted in 1998 for the 1999 model year in Europe, and in 2000 for the 2001 model year in North America. The 330i replaced the 328i.
E46 Facelift:
The E46 received a mid-cycle facelift in 2001 (for the 2002 model year) which included revised headlights, taillights, bumpers, and interior trim. The 2001 model year represents the pre-facelift E46.
Production Period:
2001-2006 (330i Sedan/Wagon), 2000-2006 (E46 Generation)
Assembly Locations:
Mainly Dingolfing, Germany; also Spartanburg, USA and Rosslyn, South Africa