Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul and repair procedures for the M52TU Inline-6 engine, including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system (dual VANOS), lubrication, and cooling systems.
Engine Management:
Diagnosis and repair of the engine control unit (ECU), fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, emissions control systems (secondary air injection, EVAP), and sensors (MAF, O2, crankshaft, camshaft).
Transmission Manual:
Repair and overhaul procedures for the Getrag 5-speed manual transmission, including clutch system, gear selection, and shifting mechanisms.
Transmission Automatic:
Repair and overhaul procedures for the ZF 5HP19/5HP19FLA 5-speed automatic transmission, including hydraulic control, torque converter, and electronic control unit (TCU).
Drivetrain:
Maintenance and repair of the rear-wheel drive system, including driveshaft, universal joints, differential, and axles.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component replacement, alignment specifications, shock absorber and strut service, control arm and bushing replacement, and subframe service.
Steering:
Servotronic power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering column, tie rods, and steering gear maintenance.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system service (discs and calipers), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and component replacement, brake fluid flush procedures, and parking brake system.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, fuse and relay identification, battery and charging system service, starter and alternator diagnosis, lighting system, and instrument cluster.
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, and heater core service. Automatic climate control (IHKA) system.
Body And Trim:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim components, door mechanisms, window regulators, and exterior trim.
Comfort And Convenience:
Power windows, power seats, central locking, remote keyless entry, sunroof operation, and cruise control system.
Preventative Maintenance:
Detailed service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, spark plug replacement, and drive belt inspection/replacement.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, fault codes, and component testing procedures.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul for all major vehicle systems.
Component Rebuild:
In-depth guidance for rebuilding key components such as the engine, transmission, and differential.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners, essential for correct assembly and preventing component failure.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, system-specific electrical schematics for accurate diagnosis and repair of electrical faults.
Depth:
Expert-level detail, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced diagnostics, and bodywork repairs.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using OBD-II scanners and BMW-specific diagnostic tools (e.g., DIS, ISTA) for fault code retrieval and live data analysis.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific BMW E46 repairs (e.g., VANOS alignment tools, clutch alignment tools, engine support brackets).
Length:
Sedan: 177.4 in (4506 mm)
Width:
Sedan: 68.9 in (1750 mm)
Height:
Sedan: 55.7 in (1415 mm)
Wheelbase:
Sedan: 107.4 in (2728 mm)
Curb Weight:
Sedan (Automatic): Approx. 3428 lbs (1555 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4500 lbs (2041 kg)
Standard Wheel Size:
16-inch alloy wheels (e.g., Style 45)
Optional Wheel Size:
17-inch alloy wheels (e.g., Style 32, Style 68)
Standard Tire Size:
205/55R16
Optional Tire Size:
225/45R17 (Front), 245/40R17 (Rear) for 17-inch wheels
Offset:
ET 47 (for 16x7J), ET 47 (for 17x8J)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12-15,000 km, or as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system, using synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 48,000 km, or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 24,000 km, or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 96,000 km for original plugs (e.g., NGK BKR6EQUP), or as per manufacturer recommendation.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 48,000 km, or every two years, using BMW-approved coolant (e.g., BMW Blue Coolant).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24,000 miles or 2 years, using DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or an approved hydraulic fluid (check manual for exact specification).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (e.g., Ate Super Blue/Gold, Pentosin DOT 4 LV)
Washer Fluid:
BMW Windshield Washer Fluid Concentrate (diluted) or equivalent.
Common E46 Issues:
Cracked rear subframe mounting points, VANOS solenoid failure, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), cooling system component failure (water pump, thermostat, expansion tank), ABS/ASC sensor failure, sagging headliner.
M52Tu Specific Issues:
VANOS system leaks, oil separator (CCV) system clogging leading to vacuum leaks and rough idle.
Cooling System Overhaul:
Replacement of water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, and expansion tank is a common preventative maintenance item.
Suspension Refresh:
Replacement of control arm bushings, tie rods, sway bar links, and rear shock mounts is often necessary due to age and mileage.