Target Audience:
BMW E46 owners seeking to perform maintenance, repairs, or diagnostics
Alternative Resources:
Costly factory CD-ROMs, third-party repair manuals (e.g., Haynes, Chilton - typically less comprehensive)
Convenience:
Instant email delivery, no shipping costs or wait times
Print Flexibility:
Ability to print specific sections or the entire manual as needed
Content Comparison:
Claims parity with factory shop manual content
Platform Compatibility:
Windows and Mac compatible
Manual Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive workshop repair and maintenance
Estimated Page Count:
Likely over 2000 pages (typical for a complete factory-style manual)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service / Repair Manual
Delivery Method:
Email Delivery
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Print Quality Expectation:
High-resolution images and diagrams suitable for printing
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type Recommendation:
Standard printer paper (8.5"x11" or A4), or heavier stock for durable workshop use
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals, ignition, fuel injection, lubrication, cooling, timing, emission control
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, differential, drive shafts, axles
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, steering rack, power steering system
Braking Systems:
Brake discs, pads, calipers, master cylinder, ABS system, parking brake
Electrical Systems:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting, power windows, mirrors, central locking, ignition switch, sensors, ECUs
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), blower motor, refrigerant system, climate control
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, chassis components
Emission Control Systems:
Catalytic converter, EGR system, oxygen sensors, secondary air injection (where applicable)
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil and filter changes, fluid checks and replacements, spark plug replacement, filter replacements, belt inspections and replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical system diagnostics
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, brake system overhauls, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Component Rebuilds:
Engine, transmission, differential, steering rack, alternator, starter motor
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems
Technical Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Repair Information Level:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions with torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic data
Common Engines:
M52TU (inline-6), M54 (inline-6), M43 (inline-4), N42 (inline-4), N46 (inline-4), S54 (inline-6 M3)
Engine Displacement Examples
2.5L Inline-6:
325i/325xi (M54B25)
3.0L Inline-6:
330i/330xi/330ci (M54B30)
3.2L Inline-6:
M3 (S54B32)
330I (M54B30):
Approx. 225 hp @ 5900 rpm, 214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
M3 (S54B32):
Approx. 333 hp @ 7900 rpm, 262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic or DME management)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Manual Gearbox:
5-speed or 6-speed manual (e.g., Getrag 260/5, ZF GS5-39DZ, ZF S5-42, ZF S6-37)
Automatic Gearbox:
5-speed automatic (e.g., GM A5S360R, ZF 5HP19)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch
Differential Type:
Open differential standard, Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) optional on some models/trims
NHTSA Front Impact Rating Example:
4-star (driver and passenger) for some E46 models in early testing
Antilock Braking System:
Standard ABS on all models
Traction Control:
Standard ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) on most models
Stability Control:
Optional DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) on later models
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags, optional side airbags
Service Intervals Example
Oil Change Interval:
Condition-Based Service (CBS) system on newer E46s, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. Older models often 7,500-10,000 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40 depending on climate and specific engine. Check manual for precise spec.
Coolant:
BMW Blue coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 low-viscosity (LV) brake fluid
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Specific ATF fluid, often Dexron III/VI or ZF TE-ML 11A/11B. Crucial to use correct fluid as per manual.
Common Engine Issues:
Oil pan gasket leaks, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failure leading to rough idle/oil consumption, VANOS solenoid issues, intake manifold gasket leaks, coolant expansion tank cracking
Common Suspension Issues:
Worn control arm bushings (RTABs - Rear Trailing Arm Bushings), worn ball joints, strut mount failures
Common Electrical Issues:
ABS/DSC sensor failures, dead pixels on instrument cluster OBC display, window regulator failures, starter motor solenoid issues
Common Cooling System Issues:
Plastic expansion tank failure, water pump bearing failure, thermostat housing leaks
Bmw Philosophy:
Focus on 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' sporty handling, premium engineering
E46 Generation Role:
Fourth generation of the 3 Series, successor to the E36, known for refinement and improved driving dynamics
Facelift Impact:
Mid-cycle refresh (LCI) introduced revised styling, improved interiors, and updated powertrains for 2002/2003 model years
Production Period:
1998-2006 (sedan and wagon ended earlier, coupe/convertible later, M3 last)
Manufacturing Plants:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also Spartanburg, USA; Regensburg, Germany; Rosslyn, South Africa
