🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

330xi

Years Covered:

1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005

Chassis Code:

E46

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon (E-segment)

Rivals:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35

Performance Orientation:

Known for sporty handling, engaging driving dynamics, and refined interiors

Drivetrain:

xDrive all-wheel drive system providing enhanced traction and stability

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Models:

BMW 330xi

Model Years:

1999-2005

Estimated Pages:

1500-2000

Type:

Full Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

M54B30 Engine, engine mechanical, engine control systems (DME), ignition, fuel injection, exhaust, cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control

Transmission:

GM A5S360R Automatic Transmission, ZF S5-31 Manual Transmission, clutch, driveline, xDrive all-wheel drive system

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, parking brake

Suspension:

Front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column

Electrical:

Battery, alternator, starter, lighting systems, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body control module (BCM), instrument cluster, power accessories

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, blower motor, refrigerant system, climate control unit

Body:

Exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seats, airbags

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection and replacement, brake service, tire rotation

Repair:

Engine component replacement, transmission rebuilds, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical system diagnostics and repair, HVAC system repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, module testing

Specifications:

Torque specifications, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters, alignment settings, wiring diagrams

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major overhauls and detailed diagnostics

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution, searchable PDF for easy navigation and printing

Clarity:

Includes clear diagrams, illustrations, and photographs

Format Detail:

Digital format allows for easy access and searchability

Physical Format:

N/A (Digital Product)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M54B30

Engine Type:

3.0L Inline-6 Cylinder, DOHC, 24 Valves

Horsepower:

225 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Injection Type:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), Electronic Throttle Control (ETC)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)

Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 or equivalent)

Capacity:

6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) with filter

🔧 Transmission

Type:

GM A5S360R 5-Speed Automatic

Type:

ZF S5-31 5-Speed Manual

AWD System:

xDrive Permanent All-Wheel Drive with Variable Torque Distribution

Automatic Fluid Type:

Dexron III or equivalent

Manual Fluid Type:

BMW MTF LT-1 or equivalent (e.g., Red Line D4 ATF for some models)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.4 inches (4506 mm) (Sedan)

Width:

68.7 inches (1745 mm)

Height:

55.5 inches (1410 mm) (Sedan)

Wheelbase:

107.4 inches (2728 mm)

Curb Weight:

3571 lbs (1620 kg) (approx.)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (for models tested)

Electronic Stability Control:

Standard (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control)

Traction Control:

Standard (ASR - Automatic Stability Control)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, optional head protection airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Business CD or Professional CD/Radio systems, optional Navigation system (MK III/IV)

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear park distance control (PDC)

Auxiliary Input:

Optional AUX input (depending on head unit)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Variable service interval (Condition Based Service - CBS), typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months

Inspect Brakes:

Every 15,000 miles or annually

Replace Cabin Filter:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually

Replace Air Filter:

Every 30,000 miles

Replace Spark Plugs:

Every 60,000 miles (NGK BKR6EQUP or equivalent recommended)

Inspect Coolant:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 (BMW High Performance Brake Fluid or equivalent)

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid

Differential Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (API GL-5)

Cooling System:

Plastic coolant expansion tanks can crack; water pumps and thermostats can fail prematurely.

Suspension:

Control arm bushings (FCABs), rear subframe bushings, and shock mounts are common wear items.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and eccentric shaft sensor seals are prone to leaking.

Electrical:

CCFL angel eye rings (on facelift models) can fail; LCM (Light Module Control) can fail, causing lighting issues.

ABS Asc Sensor:

Wheel speed sensors (ABS/ASC sensors) can fail, leading to ABS and traction control warnings.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW), founded in 1916

E46 Generation:

The E46 generation (1998-2006) succeeded the E36 and introduced significant advancements in design, engineering, and technology. The 330xi variant joined the lineup later in the generation, offering a more powerful engine and all-wheel drive.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA for certain markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

BMW 3 Series (E46) was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best award during its production run.