Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Acura TL
Vehicle Appeal:
Sporty handling, refined engine, premium interior, balanced performance
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to maintain and repair their vehicle, saving on labor costs and ensuring proper upkeep.
Engine Systems:
M54B30 (3.0L Inline-6), engine tuning, lubrication, cooling, ignition, emissions control, starting, charging
Transmission Systems:
Getrag 420G (5-speed manual), GM A5S360R/A5S390R (5-speed automatic), clutch, gearbox, differential, driveshafts
Braking Systems:
ABS, DSC, hydraulic system, brake pad/rotor replacement, brake caliper service
Suspension Steering Systems:
MacPherson struts (front), multi-link independent rear suspension, power steering system, wheel alignment
Electrical Systems:
ECU, sensors, actuators, lighting, power windows, central locking, battery, alternator, starter, wiring schematics
Body And Interior Systems:
Body panels, doors, bumpers, glass, seating, dashboard, trim components
HVAC Systems:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, blower motor, refrigerant system
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid flushes (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), belt replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine component replacement (e.g., head gasket, water pump), transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), common symptoms and their causes, step-by-step diagnostic procedures
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) procedures, using diagnostic tools, interpreting sensor data
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds)
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, component identification, and diagrams
Transmission Type:
Getrag 420G (5-speed manual)
Transmission Type:
GM A5S360R / A5S390R (5-speed Steptronic automatic)
Steptronic Functionality:
Allows manual gear selection via shifter or steering wheel buttons
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch (manual)
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (Driver), 4/5 Stars (Passenger)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Dsc:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control
Traction Control:
Standard Automatic Stability Control + Traction (ASC+T)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and front passenger, optional side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell with energy-absorbing crumple zones
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD or Professional CD/RDS radio, optional CD changer
Display:
Central information display (CID) for OBC, radio, climate control data.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear park distance control (PDC).
Telematics:
Optional BMW Assist telematics system with SOS button.
Auxiliary Input:
Typically not standard; aftermarket solutions available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used (refer to manual for specific condition-based service 'CBS' indicators).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as indicated by the condition-based service system.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 100,000 miles for long-life spark plugs (e.g., NGK BKR6EQUP).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 or LL-01 approved)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) - 50/50 mixture with distilled water
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MTF LT-2 (BMW Part No. 83220309031) or equivalent 75W-90 synthetic gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
LT 71141 (BMW Part No. 83229407821) or ZF LifeguardFluid5
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (BMW Part No. 81229407779)
Common Issues:
VANOS solenoid failure, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system issues (leading to oil leaks/consumption), oil pan gasket leaks, coolant expansion tank cracks, alternator bracket gasket leaks, vacuum hose deterioration, ABS/DSC sensor failures, ignition coil failures, fuel pump issues.
Typical Repairs:
Replacement of VANOS solenoids, CCV system overhaul, replacement of oil pan and valve cover gaskets, replacement of cooling system components (hoses, expansion tank, water pump), replacement of ignition coils and spark plugs, replacement of fuel pump and filter.
Bmw Legacy:
Founded in 1916, BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, combining performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation replaced the E36 3 Series and was praised for its improved chassis dynamics, refined interior, and introduction of advanced technologies.
330I Positioning:
The 330i represented the pinnacle of naturally aspirated performance in the non-M E46 lineup, offering a significant power upgrade over its predecessors.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Munich, Regensburg), with some assembly in other global locations.
Facelift Updates:
E46 received a mid-cycle facelift in 2001, featuring updated headlights, taillights, bumpers, and interior trim.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E46 3 Series frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best list during its production run, celebrated for its driving dynamics.
Automotive Journalism Praise:
Widely acclaimed by automotive journalists for its balance of sportiness, comfort, and everyday usability.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets various national and international emissions standards (e.g., EPA, Euro 4).
