Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance-oriented drivers, those seeking luxury and driving dynamics
Key Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Acura TL
Vehicle Highlight:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, responsive inline-six engine, and engaging driving experience
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with the detailed knowledge needed to maintain and repair the 330i effectively, saving time and money
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, fuel system, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control
Transmission:
Manual (Getrag 420G) and Automatic (GM A5S360R/A5S390R) transmission overhaul, diagnostics, fluid service
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, axles, wheel bearings, clutch assembly (manual)
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, springs, sway bars
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, DSC system, hydraulic lines, brake fluid service
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, lighting, power windows, mirrors, seats, ignition system, starter, alternator, battery
Body:
Body panels, doors, hoods, trunks, bumpers, glass, interior trim, convertible top mechanisms (if applicable)
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C, heater core, blower motor, climate control modules
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelt systems, DRL, ABS, DSC diagnostics
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, fault codes, troubleshooting procedures
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement
Repair:
Engine component replacement (e.g., water pump, thermostat, belts, hoses), transmission repair, brake pad/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic routines using specialized tools and scan data
Rebuilds:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic DIY maintenance to advanced mechanical and electrical repairs, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIYers
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement:
2979 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 89.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Horsepower Hp:
225 hp @ 5900 rpm (SAE Net)
Torque Lb Ft:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (SAE Net)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 Approved Synthetic SAE 0W-40 or 5W-30
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze/Coolant
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-Speed Automatic (GM A5S360R / A5S390R)
Manual Gear Ratios:
Typically 3.68 (1st), 2.00 (2nd), 1.32 (3rd), 1.00 (4th), 0.83 (5th) - check manual for exact specs
Automatic Features:
Steptronic (manual shift mode)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III / Mercon ATF or BMW MTF LT-2 (check manual for specific PN)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III / Mercon ATF or BMW ATF LT-3 (check manual for specific PN)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for driver and passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control and Traction)
Stability Control:
Standard (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control) on later models
Airbags:
Front airbags, optional side airbags, optional head airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with front pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 100,000 miles (refer to manual for specific type, e.g., NGK BKR6EQUP)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (BMW High Performance Brake Fluid recommended)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent (check manual for specific PN)
Differential Fluid:
BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G3 SAE 75W-90 (check manual for specific PN)
Common Wear Items:
Coolant expansion tank, VANOS solenoids/o-rings, oil filter housing gasket, valve cover gasket, water pump, drive belts, PCV system, ABS sensors, subframe bushings.
Interior Issues:
Pixelation on instrument cluster displays, door panel sagging, cup holder design.
Electrical Issues:
Short circuits in wiring harnesses, window regulator failures, LCM (Light Control Module) issues.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building sporty, driver-focused vehicles with excellent engineering.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) is widely considered one of the most successful and iconic 3 Series generations, known for its superb handling and build quality.
330I Positioning:
The 330i replaced the 328i as the top-tier 3.0L engine offering in the E46 lineup, providing a significant performance upgrade.
Production Years:
1999-2005 (for the 330i model within the E46 generation)
