Vehicle Market Segment:
Compact Executive / Sport Sedan and Touring
Brand Reputation:
BMW is known for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, emphasizing performance, handling, and build quality.
Primary Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Alfa Romeo 156
E46 Strengths:
Excellent handling, sophisticated chassis, premium interior, strong diesel engine options (especially in Europe), rear-wheel drive bias.
Manual Coverage Scope:
All models and repairs A-Z
Estimated Page Count:
Likely several hundred pages (specific number not provided, but indicated as comprehensive)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Likely digital (PDF) given typical online sales, but may have print options. Implies extensive detail.
Mechanical Systems:
Engine (320d, 330d variants), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Drivetrain (Transmission, Differential, Driveshafts), Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Hydraulic, ABS, DSC), Wheel Alignment
Electrical Systems:
Engine Management Systems, Lighting (Headlights, Taillights, Interior), Ignition System, Starting and Charging System, Instrumentation and Controls, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Seats), Climate Control, Audio System, Body Control Modules (BCM), Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelt Pretensioners)
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements (Oil, Air, Fuel, Cabin), Spark Plug Replacement (if applicable, though these are diesels), Brake Fluid Flush, Coolant Flush, Power Steering Fluid Flush, General Inspections
Repair Procedures:
Engine Overhaul/Rebuild, Transmission Repair/Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement (Shocks, Struts, Bushings), Brake System Repairs (Calipers, Rotors, Lines), Steering Rack Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair/Replacement, Interior Trim Removal/Installation
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting Fault Codes (OBD-II), Circuit Testing, Component Testing, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Wiring Diagram interpretation
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical troubleshooting. 'Real deal' implies professional workshop level of detail.
File Format Implication:
Likely PDF or similar digital format, enabling searchability and easy navigation. Quality of pictures and diagrams is highlighted.
Print Quality Description:
High quality, featuring 'tons of detailed pictures & diagrams'.
Binding Type Implication:
If a physical copy, it would likely be a robust binding suitable for workshop use (e.g., spiral-bound or perfect bound). For digital, this is irrelevant.
Paper Type Implication:
If a physical copy, high-quality, durable paper for workshop environments.
320D Engine Code:
M47 (various iterations)
320D Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder Turbocharged Diesel
320D Displacement:
1951 cc (early), 1995 cc (later M47TU)
320D Power Output Approx:
136-150 PS (100-110 kW) depending on year and M47 variant
320D Torque Output Approx:
280-330 Nm (207-243 lb-ft) depending on year and M47 variant
330D Engine Code:
M57 (various iterations)
330D Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder Turbocharged Diesel
330D Displacement:
2926 cc (early), 2993 cc (later M57TU)
330D Power Output Approx:
184-204 PS (135-150 kW) depending on year and M57 variant
330D Torque Output Approx:
390-410 Nm (288-303 lb-ft) depending on year and M57 variant
Acceleration 0 100Kph 320D Approx:
9.3 - 10.2 seconds
Acceleration 0 100Kph 330D Approx:
7.1 - 7.7 seconds
Injection System:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDi)
Turbocharger:
Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT)
320D Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual (Getrag)
330D Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual (ZF S5-31) or 6-speed Manual (ZF GS6-37BZ)
Optional Transmission:
Steptronic Automatic Transmission (5-speed GM A5S360R for 320d, 5-speed GM A5S390R or 6-speed ZF 6HP19Z for 330d)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, single dry plate
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Body Styles Covered:
Sedan (Saloon), Touring (Estate/Wagon)
Wheelbase Approx:
2760 mm (108.7 in)
Length Approx:
4471 mm (176.0 in) for Sedan
Width Approx:
1739 mm (68.5 in)
Height Approx:
1415 mm (55.7 in) for Sedan
Curb Weight Approx 320D:
1400-1500 kg (3086-3307 lb)
Curb Weight Approx 330D:
1500-1600 kg (3307-3527 lb)
E46 Crash Test Rating:
Generally good for its era. Euro NCAP: 4 stars overall (1998) for Sedan. Good frontal and side impact protection.
Standard Active Safety:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) or DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) on later/higher specs
Optional Active Safety:
Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Traction Control System
Standard Passive Safety:
Driver and Front Passenger Airbags, Side Airbags (front), Seatbelt Pretensioners
Optional Passive Safety:
Head Airbags (curtain airbags), Rear Side Airbags
Infotainment Options:
BMW Business CD (basic radio/CD), BMW Professional CD (more features), optional Navigation systems (MKIII, MKIV).
Driver Assistance Systems:
Cruise Control, Parking Sensors (rear, optional front), Rain-sensing wipers (optional), Xenon Headlights (optional).
Connectivity Features:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free system (on later models), CD changer.
Oil Service Interval Approx:
Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically 15,000-30,000 km (9,000-18,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Brake Fluid Change Interval:
Every 2 years (regardless of mileage)
Coolant Change Interval Approx:
Initial fill for 4 years, then every 2 years thereafter.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) for diesel. Viscosity typically 5W-30 or 5W-40.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, specific viscosity depends on ZF/Getrag unit (e.g., 75W-90, 75W-80W).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
BMW ATF LT-2 or ATF 7045E / ATF 8072B depending on GM/ZF unit.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 (e.g., DOT 4 LV - Low Viscosity recommended for DSC systems)
Common E46 Issues Diesel:
Cracked plastic intake manifolds (M47), turbocharger actuator issues, glow plug system faults, EGR valve clogging, swirl flap issues (M47/M57), vacuum leaks, VANOS solenoid issues (on some petrol variants, less common on diesel), rear axle subframe cracking (reinforcement often needed), oil separator (PCV) clogging leading to seal leaks, ABS/DSC sensor failures, cooling system component failures (water pump, thermostat, expansion tank).
Bmw Philosophy:
Known for engineering excellence, sporting focus, and premium quality since its inception.
E46 Introduction:
Launched in 1997 (as a 1998 model in North America) as a successor to the E36 3 Series.
E46 Facelift:
Mid-cycle facelift ('LCI') in 2001 introduced revised styling (headlights, taillights, bumpers) and updated powertrains (e.g., M47TU, M57TU).
E46 Production Years:
1997-2006
E46 Manufacturing Locations:
Germany ( utama), Austria, South Africa, Egypt, Thailand, Russia, Indonesia, India, China, Brazil, Mexico.
E46 Critical Reception:
Widely praised for its driving dynamics, build quality, and performance. Often cited as one of the best handling sedans of its era.
Ward Auto Awards:
Some E46 engines, including petrol variants, received Ward's 10 Best Engines awards in various years.
