Market Niche:
Premium compact executive sedan, known for sporty driving dynamics and sophisticated engineering
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive platform, and engaging handling
Engine Performance:
Smooth and powerful inline-six engine offering a blend of performance and refinement
Build Quality:
High standard of materials and construction typical of BMW vehicles
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, repair, overhaul (e.g., cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train)
Engine Management And Diagnostics:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control, sensor diagnostics, DME (Digital Motor Electronics) troubleshooting, OBD-II diagnostics, fault code retrieval and interpretation
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch system, driveshaft, differential, axles, wheel bearings
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, ball joints), power steering system, steering rack
Brakes:
Brake system diagnosis, repair, bleeding, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pad and rotor replacement, brake line service
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, locks, mirrors, HVAC controls, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) / Airbag system
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, convertible top mechanisms (if applicable), structural components
Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning HVAC:
AC system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling, blower motor, heater core, climate control unit
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin, fuel), spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting for various vehicle systems
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment
Diagnostic Procedures:
Utilizing diagnostic tools and interpreting data for accurate problem identification
Technical Specifications And Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams, component identification
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics
Engine Type:
3.0L Naturally Aspirated Inline-6
Displacement:
2979 cc (181.8 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 89.6 mm (3.31 in x 3.53 in)
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Horsepower:
225 hp @ 5900 rpm (SAE Net)
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (SAE Net)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI), Bosch Motronic DME
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual ignition coils
Standard Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/5)
Optional Transmission Type:
5-Speed Steptronic Automatic (GM 5L40-E)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Tiptronic manual shifting mode, adaptive shift logic
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Esso/Mobil JWS 3309 (ATF LT 71141)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good
Standard Safety Features:
ABS, DSC, Traction Control (ASC+T)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), side airbags, head protection system (optional/standard on some trims)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Infotainment System:
BMW Professional Radio, optional CD changer, optional navigation system (CCC).
Speaker System:
Standard 10-speaker HiFi system, optional Harman Kardon Logic 7 surround sound.
Driver Assistance Features:
Parking Distance Control (PDC) sensors, Cruise Control.
Connectivity Options:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free system, optional cellular phone preparation.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval Indicator (VSI) system; typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Filter Part Number:
Mann-Filter HU831/1 (or equivalent OEM)
Engine Air Filter Part Number:
Mann-Filter C35150 (or equivalent OEM)
Cabin Air Filter Part Number:
Mann-Filter CU2538 (or equivalent OEM)
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approximately 60,000 miles (NGK BKR6EQUP or equivalent)
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) Synthetic Oil, SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts)
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 (BMW High Performance Brake Fluid)
Common Issues Engine:
CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failure, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid issues, oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket, thermostat housing leaks.
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, rear shock mount failures, strut bearing wear.
Common Issues Electrical:
ABS/DSC module failures, window regulator issues, blower motor resistor failure, coolant level sensor faults.
Common Issues Drivetrain:
Clutch wear (manual transmission), automatic transmission 'clunk' or harsh shifts, differential seal leaks.
Bmw Heritage:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, renowned for producing high-performance luxury vehicles with a focus on driving pleasure.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) marked a significant evolution for the 3 Series, refining its predecessor's strengths with improved aerodynamics, chassis dynamics, and interior comfort.
Production Period:
E46 330i models produced from late 2000 through the 2006 model year.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary manufacturing at BMW's Munich plant, with additional facilities in Germany, South Africa, and Austria.
