Segment:
Compact Executive Sports Sedan/Coupe
Usp:
Renowned for its engaging driving dynamics, balanced chassis, and refined interior.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202/W203), Audi A4 (B5/B6), Lexus IS300, Alfa Romeo 156
Handling:
Near 50/50 weight distribution, multi-link rear suspension (Z-axle), excellent steering feedback
Engine Smoothness:
Inline-six engine known for its smoothness and characteristic sound
Build Quality:
High level of German engineering and material quality
Powertrain:
Engine (M52TU B25), Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic), Clutch, Driveshafts, Differential
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering System, Brakes (front and rear), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Engine Management (DME), Body Control Modules (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC Controls, Power Windows/Locks/Mirrors, Audio System
Body:
Body Panel Repair, Interior Trim, Seating Systems, Exterior Components (bumpers, spoilers, etc.)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, brake inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, component testing procedures
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component replacement, bodywork repairs
Installation:
Component replacement procedures (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), accessory installation guidance
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Engine Code:
M52TU B25 (Technical Update)
Displacement:
2494 cc (2.5 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 valves (4 valves per cylinder), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
189 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 3250 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME 7.2)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher recommended)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (for sedan variants, coupe similar structure)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for sedan variants, coupe similar structure)
Traction Control:
Available (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control + Traction)
Brake Assist:
Available (ABS - Anti-lock Braking System)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, available front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front seatbelt pretensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD (Radio/CD Player), optional BMW Professional CD (more features), optional Navigation System (MKIV unit).
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio.
Parking Sensors:
Optional (Park Distance Control - PDC)
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth preparation (often requiring a cradle).
Oil Change Interval Indicator:
Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 45,000 miles or as indicated by CBS.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 20,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 100,000 miles for iridium plugs (check specific type).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years (regardless of mileage).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (BMW LL-01 approved). Capacity: 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48), 50/50 mixture with distilled water. Capacity: 9.0 Liters (9.5 US Quarts).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MTF LT-2 (Pentosin MTF 2) or equivalent. Capacity: 1.3 Liters (1.4 US Quarts).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF LT-3 (Dexron III equivalent initially, later Esso LT 71141. BMW specifies critical changes over time). Capacity: Approx. 1.2 Liters for torque converter drain/fill, higher for full flush.
Differential Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (BMW Hypoid Gear Oil LS). Capacity: 1.0 Liter (1.1 US Quarts).
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank cracks, water pump failure (plastic impeller), thermostat housing leaks.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings (bushings crack/tear), rear subframe bushings crack, trailing arm bushings wear.
Electrical:
ABS/DSC sensor failures, VANOS solenoid failure, fuel pump failure, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system issues leading to oil leaks.
Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, oil pan gasket. Cooling system leaks are prevalent.
Bmw Philosophy:
Ultimate Driving Machine
E46 Introduction:
Introduced in 1998 as a replacement for the E36 3 Series, the E46 represented a significant advancement in design, engineering, and technology.
E46 Facelift:
Mid-cycle facelift occurred around 2001/2002, featuring revised styling (headlights, taillights, bumpers) and updated interior components.
Coupe Variant:
The E46 Coupe was launched shortly after the sedan and offered a sportier, more stylish profile with a pillarless hardtop design.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also Regensburg, Germany, and various international assembly plants.
