Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional technicians working on BMW vehicles.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS series, Infiniti G-series.
Vehicle Attributes:
Sporty handling, refined interiors, potent inline-six engines, advanced technology for its era.
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables owners and technicians to perform complex maintenance and repairs, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of the vehicle.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, internal components, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery, intake and exhaust systems.
Engine Management:
ECU diagnosis, sensor testing, ignition system, emission control systems, fuel injection.
Transmission:
Automatic (Steptronic) transmission: overhaul, diagnosis, fluid service, electronic controls.
Drivetrain:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive system: differential, transfer case, drive shafts, CV joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake fluid specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, fuse box layouts, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, chassis components, rust prevention.
HVAC:
Climate control system, air conditioning, heater core, blower motor, diagnostic procedures.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belt pretensioners, SRS diagnosis.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, brake pad replacement, belt inspections.
Diagnostic Procedures:
OBD-II diagnostics, fault code interpretation, component testing using multimeter and scan tools, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper replacement, starter/alternator replacement, sensor replacement.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step guides for common malfunctions, electrical gremlins, drivability issues.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, electrical component values, alignment angles.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic preventative maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostics Scope:
Advanced diagnostics including component-level testing, sensor data interpretation, and ECU reprogramming considerations.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, system-specific electrical wiring diagrams with component identification.
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not specifically rated for 1999 model year in all configurations. Generally considered safe for its class.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not specifically rated for 1999 model year. E46 platform known for good structural integrity.
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction)
Stability Control:
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) - standard on xi models
Antilock Brakes:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (indicated by Condition Based Service - CBS system).
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30 meeting BMW LL-01 specifications (refer to manual for precise current BMW approval).
Oil Filter Part Number:
BMW 11 42 1 742 331 (or equivalent aftermarket)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 miles (for Long Life spark plugs, e.g., Bosch Super Plus).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years (DOT 4 specification).
Coolant Flush:
Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles or 2 years (BMW Blue or Pink Antifreeze/Coolant).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron III or BMW P/N 8122 9 407 792 (refer to manual for specific approval)
Engine Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (15.8 US Quarts)
Differential Fluid Type:
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (BMW P/N 83 22 9 407 767 or equivalent)
Common Wear Items:
Vibration damper pulley, VANOS solenoids/seals, cooling system components (water pump, thermostat, hoses), ignition coils, ABS/DSC sensors, front control arm bushings.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter housing gasket are common areas for oil leaks.
Electrical Gremlins:
Water ingress into the LCM (Light Module Control) and ZKE (Central Body Electronics) modules can cause various electrical faults.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW, renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, has a long history of producing high-performance, driver-focused vehicles with advanced engineering.
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation BMW 3 Series was introduced in 1998 for the 1999 model year, replacing the E36. The 330xi variant debuted later in the E46's lifecycle, often as a 2001 or later model in many markets. However, for the purpose of this manual, it refers to the specific 1999 E46 chassis with the 330xi designation, which implies an early introduction of the higher-output engine and AWD system within the E46 platform's early years, or a slight imprecision in the product title if the 330xi itself wasn't officially released in 1999 in all regions.
Xi AWD System:
The 'xi' designation historically signifies BMW's all-wheel-drive system, introduced to enhance traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Manufacturing Plant:
Primary manufacturing plants were in Germany (e.g., Dingolfing).
