Generation Years:
1999-2006 (with specific focus on 1999-2005 for this manual)
Body Styles Covered:
Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Sport Wagon (Touring)
Engine Codes Covered:
M54B25 (325i/xi), M54B30 (330i/xi), S54B32 (M3)
Segment:
Premium Sport Sedan/Coupe/Convertible/Wagon
Brand Philosophy:
The E46 generation represented BMW's commitment to driving dynamics ('The Ultimate Driving Machine') with refined engineering and a focus on performance.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35, Porsche 911 (for M3 variants).
Performance Focus:
Renowned for balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive (with available xDrive AWD), precise steering, and powerful engines, especially the S54 in the M3.
Versatility:
Offered in multiple body styles catering to different needs, from sporty coupes and convertibles to practical sedans and wagons.
Regions Covered:
Global (primarily North America, Europe)
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive, typically over 2,000 pages for a comprehensive workshop manual.
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission, driveline, propeller shaft, axles, differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system (hydraulic power steering), brakes (ABS, DSC, EBD, brake bleeding, rotor/pad replacement), wheels and tires.
Body And Electrical:
Body structure, exterior panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories, SRS (airbag) system, central locking, alarm system, infotainment system, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Repair:
Engine component replacement (e.g., head gasket, pistons, connecting rods), transmission overhaul/replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (e.g., control arms, shocks, struts), starter motor, alternator, fuel pump, catalytic converter replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) explanation, pinpoint tests, wiring diagrams, component testing procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical system troubleshooting.
323I (1999-2000):
M52TU B25 (Inline-6, 2.5L), 168 hp @ 5500 rpm, 180 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
325I/Xi (2001-2005):
M54B25 (Inline-6, 2.5L), 184 hp @ 6000 rpm, 175 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
328I (1999-2000):
M52TU B28 (Inline-6, 2.8L), 190 hp @ 5300 rpm, 206 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
330I/Xi (2001-2005):
M54B30 (Inline-6, 3.0L), 225 hp @ 5900 rpm, 214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
M3 (2001-2006):
S54B32 (Inline-6, 3.2L, naturally aspirated), 333 hp @ 7400 rpm, 262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
ECU Type:
MS43/MS45 for M54 engines, MSS54/MSS54HP for S54 engine (specifics vary by year/market).
323I/325I/328I/330I:
5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag S5D 250G for 5-speed manual)
M3:
6-speed Manual Transmission (ZF Type G)
323I/325I/328I/330I:
5-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (GM A5S325Z/A5S360R)
M3:
SMG II (Sequential Manual Gearbox) Automated Manual Transmission
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD). xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD) available on 325xi and 330xi models.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends synthetic gear oil, e.g., Castrol Syntrans B75W or equivalent (specifics in manual).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III H or Dexron VI (specifics vary by GM transmission variant; consult manual).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 107.4 inches (2728 mm)
Length:
Sedan: ~177.9 inches (4520 mm), Coupe/Convertible: ~177.4 inches (4505 mm), M3: ~178.2 inches (4525 mm)
Width:
Approx. 68.2 inches (1732 mm)
Height:
Sedan: ~55.5 inches (1410 mm), Coupe/Convertible: ~53.4 inches (1356 mm)
Trunk Volume:
Sedan: ~11.2 cu ft (317 L), Coupe: ~11.2 cu ft (317 L), Convertible: ~9.7 cu ft (275 L) with top up
Curb Weight:
Varies by model and body style, approx. 3300-3700 lbs (1500-1680 kg) for 330i, M3 approx. 3500 lbs (1590 kg).
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120
IIHS Front Crash Test:
Good (for models tested)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
4-star (for driver and front passenger, for models tested)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard on most models.
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T) or Dynamic Traction Control (DTC).
Braking Assist:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD).
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, available head protection airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners.
Rollover Protection:
Active rollover protection bars for convertible models.
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD/RDS, BMW Professional CD/RDS, optional navigation system (MKIII or MKIV).
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium sound system.
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, some models with Active Cruise Control (ACC) were available but rare.
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface (available via snap-in adapter in center armrest).
OBD Ii:
On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) port located under the dashboard for scan tool connection and fault code retrieval.
Oil Change Interval:
BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends intervals between 10,000 and 15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Coolant Change:
Every 2-4 years or as indicated by the CBS system.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years.
Engine Oil Spec:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) certified synthetic oil, viscosity typically 0W-40 or 5W-30 (e.g., Castrol Edge Professional OE).
Coolant Spec:
BMW Coolant/Antifreeze (G48 ethylene glycol based, blue color), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid (refer to manual for specific type and color).
Oil Consumption:
Some M54 engines (especially early ones) can consume oil due to PCV system issues or worn piston rings/valve seals.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks and water pumps can become brittle and fail. Thermostat housing leaks are also common.
Subframe Mounts:
Cracking or separation of rear subframe mounting points, especially on coupes and convertibles, is a significant structural concern that the manual will detail inspection for.
Vanos:
Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) system seals can degrade, leading to rough idle and performance issues. The manual covers diagnosis and repair.
Rod Bearings:
A known issue on the S54 M3 engine, particularly early models, can involve bearing wear. Early detection and replacement are crucial. The manual details inspection procedures.
Oil Pan Gasket:
Leaking oil pan gaskets are common due to age and material degradation.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused cars with advanced engineering, a legacy dating back to the early 20th century.
E46 Context:
The E46 was the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series, succeeding the E36. It marked a significant evolution in design, technology, and performance, solidifying the 3 Series' position as a benchmark in its class.
M3 Development:
The E46 M3, powered by the high-revving S54 engine, is considered one of the greatest M cars ever produced, known for its exceptional track capability and everyday usability.
Production Years:
1999-2006 (for E46 platform globally)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Main assembly plant in Dingolfing), South Africa, Egypt, Thailand, Russia, India, and China through CKD assembly.
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The BMW 3 Series (including E46 variants) was a perennial recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' awards during its production run, particularly for its driving dynamics.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While specific E46 models might not have won outright, the 3 Series consistently ranked highly in comparison tests.
Sales Performance:
The E46 was a strong seller for BMW, reinforcing the 3 Series' status as the brand's volume leader and a dominant force in the premium compact executive car segment.
