Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon, All-Wheel Drive variant
Competitors:
Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC, Lexus IS 300
Performance Oriented:
Known for sporty handling and refined driving experience.
AWD Capability:
xDrive system provides enhanced traction and stability in various conditions.
Build Quality:
Reputation for premium materials and solid construction.
Licensing:
Officially licensed, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Delivery:
Instant online access.
Comparison:
Superior to outdated printed manuals due to searchability and up-to-date information.
Engine:
3.0L M54B30 I6, Engine mechanical, engine electrical, cooling, lubrication, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control
Transmission:
ZF 5HP19 (Automatic), Getrag 420G (Manual), Drivetrain, clutch, drive shafts, differentials, xDrive AWD system
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs, ABS, DSC, brake system diagnostics and repair
Suspension Steering:
Front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link, power steering system, wheel alignment
Electrical Electronics:
Body electrical, chassis electrical, lighting, instrumentation, infotainment, comfort control electronics, wiring diagrams
Body Chassis:
Body construction, doors, windows, roof, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, chassis components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plugs, battery service
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems, component replacement, system adjustments
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, BMW specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), ECU programming (if applicable to software features)
Depth:
Expert level, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers complete overhauls and complex diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder (I6)
Displacement:
2979 cc (3.0 Liters)
Horsepower:
225 hp @ 5900 rpm
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic ME 7.2
Emission Controls:
Dual Overhead Cams (DOHC), 4 Valves per Cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing), Secondary Air Injection System, Catalytic Converter
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G)
Type:
5-Speed Automatic (ZF 5HP19)
AWD System:
BMW xDrive Permanent All-Wheel Drive with variable torque distribution
Fluid Specifications Auto
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 (Shell M1375.4 or equivalent approved fluid)
Fluid Specifications Manual
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF-LT-1 or MTF-LT-2 (GL-4 Gear Oil recommended)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5 Stars (Driver), 5 Stars (Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for comparable E46 models)
Traction Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Brake Assist:
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, available front and rear head protection system (HPS)
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD or Professional CD/RDS radio, optional Navigation System Professional (MKIV unit)
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC)
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth mobile phone integration (UHI interface)
System:
Automatic climate control with integrated microfilter
Oil Change:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (BMW Blue Coolant)
Spark Plugs:
NGK BKR6EQUP (or equivalent), every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on spark plug type and condition.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years (BMW DOT 4 HP)
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW LL-01 approved, e.g., Castrol EDGE Professional OE BMW Special V or equivalent)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW CHF 11S (Pentosin SSF or equivalent)
Differential Fluid:
BMW Hypoid Gear Oil (G2 / SAF-XJ or equivalent)
Oil Consumption:
Some M54 engines can experience higher than normal oil consumption due to valve stem seals or PCV system issues.
Cooling System:
Plastic cooling components (expansion tank, radiator, water pump thermostat housing) can become brittle and fail.
Ccv System:
Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system can clog, leading to oil leaks, poor idle, and potential engine damage.
Oil Pan Gasket:
Oil pan gasket and rear main seal leaks are common wear items.
Window Regulators:
Plastic components in window regulator mechanisms can fail.
S54 Alternator Bracket:
Though less common on M54, alternator bracket bolt failure has been noted on some M54 variants.
Heritage:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, renowned for performance, luxury, and engineering excellence since 1916.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) is a highly regarded era for the 3 Series, known for its balance of driving dynamics and comfort.
330Xi Introduction:
The 330xi variant, introduced in 2001, added xDrive all-wheel drive to the potent 3.0L engine, enhancing its appeal in various climates.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (primarily Dingolfing and Munich)
