Market Segment:
Entry-level luxury/compact executive car
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, RWD platform, and engaging driving experience
Build Quality:
High-quality interior materials and robust construction typical of BMW
Engine Performance:
Smooth and powerful inline-six engines (and a potent V8 for the M3), offering a blend of performance and refinement
Model Variants Covered:
M3, 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 330i, 330xi
Estimated Page Count:
Thousands (comprehensive workshop manual)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (typically PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain, Transmission, Clutch, Driveshafts, Differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Hydraulic & ABS), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting System, Instrumentation, HVAC Controls, Audio System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts)
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Seats, Safety Restraints
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Component Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Replacement, Body Panel Repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Troubleshooting Guides, Electrical Schematics Analysis, Component Testing Procedures
Specifications And Data:
Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities, Engine Data, Dimensions, Electrical Component Data, Diagnostic Specifications
Body And Chassis Repair:
Detailed instructions for body panel alignment, repair, rust prevention, and chassis component replacement (e.g., subframe, suspension arms).
Electrical Schematics:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, essential for diagnosing electrical faults.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: from basic adjustments and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures.
Diagnostic Tools:
Covers procedures for use with BMW proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., DIS, ISTA/EDiabas) and general OBD-II scanners.
Engine Variant 2.5L Inline-6 M54B25:
Displacement: 2.5 Liters (2494 cc); Horsepower: 184 hp @ 6000 rpm; Torque: 235 Nm (173 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm; Bore x Stroke: 84.0 mm x 75.0 mm; Compression Ratio: 10.2:1
Engine Variant 3.0L Inline-6 M54B30:
Displacement: 3.0 Liters (2979 cc); Horsepower: 225 hp @ 6000 rpm; Torque: 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm; Bore x Stroke: 84.0 mm x 90.0 mm; Compression Ratio: 10.2:1
Engine Variant M3 S54B32:
Displacement: 3.2 Liters (3246 cc); Horsepower: 333 hp @ 7900 rpm; Torque: 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) @ 4900 rpm; Bore x Stroke: 87.0 mm x 91.0 mm; Compression Ratio: 11.5:1
0-60 Mph Approx:
Varies by model, e.g., ~7.0s for 325i, ~5.5s for M3
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 250 for non-M models), 6-speed Manual (Getrag 420G for M3)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (GM A5S360R/A5S325Z)
Rear Wheel Drive:
Standard across most models
All Wheel Drive:
Optional xDrive (AWD) system on 325xi and 330xi models
Wheelbase:
Approx. 107.4 inches (2728 mm)
Length:
Varies by body style: Sedan ~177.4 inches (4506 mm), Coupe ~176.5 inches (4483 mm), Convertible ~176.5 inches (4483 mm), Wagon ~177.2 inches (4501 mm)
Width:
Approx. 68.7 inches (1745 mm)
Height:
Varies by body style: Sedan ~55.2 inches (1402 mm), Coupe ~53.1 inches (1349 mm), Convertible ~54.1 inches (1374 mm), Wagon ~54.4 inches (1382 mm)
Curb Weight Approx:
3200 - 3600 lbs (1450 - 1630 kg), M3 higher
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approx:
4500 - 4800 lbs (2040 - 2180 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
Good (for models tested, e.g., 2000 Sedan)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Acceptable/Good (for models tested)
Anti-Lock Braking System:
Standard (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard (ASC+T or DSC - Dynamic Stability Control)
Stability Control:
Standard on later models and higher trims (DSC)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger; optional side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Rollover Protection:
Automatic rollover protection system for Convertible models
Available Systems:
Optional premium audio systems, CD players, and early navigation systems (CCC/M-ASK depending on year and trim).
Advanced Features:
Traction Control (ASC+T), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Park Distance Control (PDC - optional), Rain-sensing wipers (optional), Xenon Adaptive Headlights (optional).
Early Connectivity:
Optional Bluetooth integration for hands-free calling on later models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type (check Condition Based Service - CBS system where applicable).
Major Service Milestones:
Inspect/replace spark plugs around 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on type). Inspect/replace coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and differential fluid at manufacturer-specified intervals (often 30,000-60,000 miles or as indicated by CBS).
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) compliant synthetic oil, typically SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30. Check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48), 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Pentosin MTF LT-2 (or equivalent approved fluid)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
BMW ATF (e.g., ETL-7045E, LT-71141, or equivalent approved fluid for Steptronic models)
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (check specific differential type).
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; water pump failures (especially plastic impeller versions).
Valve Cover Gaskets:
Common oil leaks from valve cover gaskets due to aging rubber seals.
Oil Pan Gaskets:
Oil leaks from the oil pan gasket are also prevalent.
Oil Separators:
Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system can clog, leading to oil leaks and rough idle.
Subframe Mounts:
Rear subframe mounting points can crack or fatigue, especially on earlier models; requires reinforcement. (M3 models particularly susceptible).
Mismatched Headlights:
Common issue where headlights are replaced individually, leading to uneven beam patterns and color tint.
Heater Control Valve:
Heater control valve can fail, resulting in no heat or inconsistent temperature control.
ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:
ABS and traction control warning lights can illuminate due to faulty wheel speed sensors.
Bmw Philosophy:
The Ultimate Driving Machine; emphasis on performance, engineering, and driver engagement.
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation replaced the E36 3 Series and brought significant advancements in chassis design, engine technology, and interior refinement.
Mid Cycle Refresh:
Facelift (LCI) occurred in 2001, featuring updated headlights, taillights, bumpers, and interior trim.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary manufacturing in Dingolfing, Germany, with some assembly in other global locations.
Sales Figures Context:
The E46 was a highly successful model for BMW, significantly boosting sales and cementing its position in the compact executive segment.
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The E46 3 Series was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best awards, highlighting its class-leading driving dynamics and overall excellence.
Ward Best Engines:
BMW's inline-six engines (M54 series) often received recognition for their smoothness, power delivery, and efficiency.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally received good to excellent ratings for predicted reliability, though specific model years and common issues noted by owners should be reviewed.
