Market Segment:
Compact Executive / Sports Sedan
Positioning Statement:
The BMW 3 Series (E46) 330i represented BMW's commitment to offering a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and driving dynamics in the premium compact executive segment.
Primary Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, responsive steering, and engaging driving experience.
Powertrain Performance:
The M54B30 inline-six engine provided smooth power delivery and strong performance.
Build Quality:
Exceptional interior and exterior build quality, typical of BMW's premium standards.
Covered Years:
1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
Covered Models:
330i Sedan, 330Ci Coupe, 330i Touring (Wagon), 330Ci Convertible
Estimated Page Count:
1000+
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, engine management (DME), lubrication system
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (Getrag 6-speed), Automatic transmission (Steptronic/GM A5S360R/Z, A5S325Z), Clutch system, Driveshafts, Differentials
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), Rear suspension (Multi-link/Z-axle), Power steering, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Brake system components (discs, pads, lines), Parking brake
Electrical Electronics:
12V electrical system, Battery, Alternator, Starter motor, Lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), Fuses and relays, Body Control Module (BCM), Gateway module, Instrument cluster, Infotainment system, Cruise control
Body Chassis:
Body structure, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Exterior trim, Interior trim, Seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), Convertible top mechanisms (for Ci models)
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, Filter replacements (oil, air, cabin, fuel), Spark plug replacement, Coolant flushes, Brake fluid replacement, Transmission fluid service, Differential fluid service, Wiper blade replacement, Battery testing and replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine component removal and installation (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump, VANOS), Transmission overhaul and replacement, Brake caliper and rotor replacement, Suspension component replacement (shocks, control arms, bushings), Steering rack replacement, HVAC system repair, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement, Body panel repair and replacement
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, Fault finding for engine performance issues, Electrical system troubleshooting, HVAC system diagnostics, ABS/DSC system fault analysis, Engine starting problems, Driveability issues
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive; covers from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and torque specifications.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement:
2,979 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 89.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 24 Valves (4 per cylinder), Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
225 hp @ 5,900 rpm
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type Required:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)
ECU System:
Bosch Motronic (e.g., ME7.2)
Standard Transmission:
Getrag 420G 6-Speed Manual
Optional Transmission:
GM 5-Speed Automatic (Steptronic)
Automatic Transmission Codes:
A5S360R/Z, A5S325Z
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, Single Dry Plate (Manual)
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
BMW recommends specific MTF LT-2 or LT-3 fluids. (Consult manual for precise part numbers like 83 22 0 439 133)
Transmission Fluid Spec Automatic:
Dexron III/VI compatible fluid (e.g., BMW ATF LT 71141, Pentosin ATF1).
Wheelbase:
107.4 inches (2,729 mm)
Length:
177.4 inches (4,506 mm)
Width:
68.7 inches (1,745 mm)
Height:
55.7 inches (1,415 mm)
Front Track:
58.5 inches (1,486 mm)
Rear Track:
59.3 inches (1,506 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,397 - 3,527 lbs (1,541 - 1,600 kg), varies by body style and transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 4,586 lbs (2,080 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Not typically recommended/equipped for towing.
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS), Optional Xenon Headlights
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, Front side-impact airbags, Front and rear head protection system (HPS) curtain airbags (optional/standard depending on year/model), Crumple zones, Steel safety cage
Infotainment Options:
Optional BMW Professional Radio/Cassette/CD system, optional navigation system (MKIII/MKIV), Harman Kardon audio system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise Control, Park Distance Control (PDC) - optional.
Connectivity Features:
Optional Bluetooth integration (car phone preparation), CD changer interface.
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends oil changes every 10,000-15,000 miles or based on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Typically every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
M54 engines use long-life spark plugs, typically around 100,000 miles. (Consult manual for specific plug type and gap).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) specification synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-40. (e.g., Castrol Syntec 5W-30).
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 US quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol-based).
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 US quarts (7.5 Liters).
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid. (BMW P/N 81 22 9 407 761).
Common Issues M54:
Oil filter housing gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, PCV system failures (leading to rough idle and oil consumption), VANOS solenoid issues, coolant expansion tank failure, CCV system clogs.
Common Issues Chassis:
Subframe cracking (especially rear), suspension bushings wear (e.g., control arm bushings), window regulator failures, door seal degradation, ABS/DSC sensor issues.
Common Issues Electrical:
Heater core failures, blower motor resistor failure, instrument cluster pixelation, headlight condensation.
Bmw Heritage:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused vehicles with excellent engineering and performance.
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 1998 (for the 1999 model year), succeeding the popular E36.
330I Introduction:
The 3.0-liter engine (M54B30) replaced the 2.8-liter engine in the 328i for the 2001 model year, creating the 330i, offering a significant power increase.
Production Period:
1999-2005 (for the specific E46 330i models covered)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), also South Africa and Austria.
