Market Segment:
Premium compact executive sedan/saloon and wagon.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS300, Acura TL.
Unique Selling Propositions:
Performance-oriented driving dynamics, refined luxury interior, advanced engineering, xDrive all-wheel drive system, high-quality materials.
Primary Audience:
Owners and independent technicians seeking detailed repair and maintenance information for the BMW 330xi E46 model.
Value Proposition:
Provides the technical expertise and step-by-step instructions necessary for proper maintenance, diagnosis, and repair, empowering users to maintain their vehicle effectively and cost-efficiently.
Product Name:
BMW 330xi 1999-2005 Workshop Service Repair Manual
Covered Years:
1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
Estimated Page Count:
Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF), Print (as specified by reseller)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, intake system, ignition system.
Drivetrain:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive system (transfer case, front and rear differentials, drive shafts), transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS and DSC), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting, instrumentation, comfort systems (HVAC, power accessories), infotainment, diagnostic systems (OBD-II), wiring diagrams, component locations.
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, safety systems (airbags), body seals.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, brake pad replacement, spark plug replacement, belt replacement.
Repair:
Engine component repair and replacement, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper and rotor replacement, steering rack repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, mechanical problems, and system malfunctions using diagnostic codes and symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, sensor testing, actuator testing, use of diagnostic tools (e.g., BMW DIS or ISTA-P for authorized service, generic OBD-II scanners).
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic parameters, component tolerances.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting.
Digital Format Details:
Searchable PDF, high-resolution scans of original factory documentation, printable pages, bookmark navigation (if properly structured).
Print Quality:
High-quality print (for physical copies), clear text and legible diagrams.
Binding Type:
Perfect bound or spiral bound (for physical copies, designed for workshop use).
Paper Type:
Durable, high-quality paper stock resistant to grease and workshop environments (for physical copies).
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24-valve
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2979 cc)
Horsepower:
225 hp (168 kW) @ 5900 rpm
Torque:
214 lb-ft (290 Nm) @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SMPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Cooling Medium:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (BMW Blue or compatible)
Oil Type:
Synthetic engine oil, SAE 5W-30 (BMW Longlife-01 specification recommended)
ECU Type:
MS43 (later models may use MS45 variants)
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 420G)
Type:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (GM A5S360R/A5S390R)
AWD System:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive with electronically controlled torque distribution.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
MTF LT-2 or MTF LT-3 (BMW specific)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III / Dexron VI (BMW-approved)
Length:
Sedan: 179.7 inches (4565 mm), Wagon (Touring): 180.1 inches (4575 mm)
Width:
68.7 inches (1745 mm)
Height:
Sedan: 55.5 inches (1410 mm), Wagon (Touring): 55.1 inches (1400 mm)
Wheelbase:
107.3 inches (2725 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3500-3600 lbs (1588-1633 kg), varies by body style and transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4500-4600 lbs (2041-2087 kg)
Trunk Volume:
Sedan: 11.7 cu ft (331 L)
Wagon Cargo Volume:
Wagon: 17.7 cu ft (501 L) behind rear seats, expandable to 53.3 cu ft (1509 L) with rear seats folded.
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated for this specific year/model in all categories, but generally performed well for its era.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not explicitly rated for this specific year/model in all categories, but generally performed well for its era.
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T)
Braking:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), ventilated front discs, solid rear discs.
Airbags:
Front occupant airbags, front side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Head Unit Options:
BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD, optional navigation system (MKIV unit).
Audio System:
Various audio systems, including optional Harman Kardon premium sound.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear park distance control (PDC).
Remote Features:
Remote keyless entry, optional alarm system.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control, heated seats, power-adjustable seats with memory function (optional).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually, based on vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system or manufacturer recommendations. Consult manual for specifics.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 liters (2000-2002 models may vary)
Windshield Washer Fluid:
BMW Washer Fluid Concentrate or equivalent.
Cooling System:
Cracking plastic components (expansion tank, radiator), water pump failure, thermostat issues.
Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failure leading to oil consumption and rough running, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid issues.
Suspension:
Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends; rear shock mount failure.
Electrical:
ABS/DSC sensor failures, headlight leveling system issues, central locking problems, pixelated instrument cluster displays (LCM module).
Brand Philosophy:
Known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', emphasizing performance, engineering, and driver engagement.
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series debuted in 1998 for the 1999 model year, replacing the E36.
330Xi Introduction:
The 330xi variant, featuring the xDrive all-wheel-drive system, was introduced later in the E46's lifecycle, specifically for the 2001 model year in most markets, offering enhanced traction and stability.
Production Years E46:
1998-2006 (depending on body style and market)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), with some assembly in other global locations.
