🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Generation Name:

E46

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Codes Covered:

M52TU, M54, M56

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW E46 represents the pinnacle of compact executive sedans and coupes for its era, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and driving dynamics. This manual positions itself as the definitive resource for maintaining and repairing these vehicles.

Competitors:

Competes with Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS (XE10), and Infiniti G35 (V35).

Manual Features:

Official factory data, comprehensive coverage, detailed diagrams, step-by-step instructions, diagnostic information, essential for DIY and professional use.

Audience:

BMW E46 owners, independent repair shops, automotive technicians, DIY enthusiasts.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Years:

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

Body Styles Covered:

Sedan (E46/4), Coupe (E46/2), Convertible (E46/C), Sport Wagon (Touring, E46/3)

Model Variants Covered:

323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 330i, 330xi

Estimated Page Count:

Thousands (comprehensive workshop manual)

Type:

Factory Service Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Windows (95/98/ME/XP/Vista/7), Linux, MAC

Shipping:

Free Download (No Shipping Cost)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system, lubrication, oil pump, oil pan, seals, gaskets.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starter motor, alternator, battery, engine control unit (ECU), sensors (crankshaft position, camshaft position, MAF, O2, etc.), wiring diagrams.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel pressure regulator, EVAP system.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan, expansion tank, coolant specifications.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipes, oxygen sensors.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox internal components, shift linkage, clutch fluid, torque specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, valve body, planetary gears, transmission control unit (TCU), fluid type and capacity, solenoids, seals, rebuild procedures.

Drivetrain:

Propeller shaft (driveshaft), universal joints, differential (rear axle), CV joints, axles.

Suspension Front:

Struts, control arms, ball joints, tie rods, bushings, wheel bearings, alignment procedures.

Suspension Rear:

Multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, trailing arms, control arms, bushings, wheel bearings, alignment procedures.

Brakes Front:

Brake discs (rotors), brake pads, calipers, brake lines, ABS components.

Brakes Rear:

Brake discs (rotors), brake pads, calipers, parking brake mechanism, ABS components.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, steering wheel, power steering fluid.

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, windows, mirrors, seals, trim, paint codes.

Body Interior:

Seats, dashboard, door panels, headliner, carpeting, climate control vents, interior trim pieces.

Electrical Systems General:

Lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), wipers, horn, power windows, central locking, keyless entry.

Climate Control:

HVAC system, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant charging, cabin air filter.

Safety Systems:

Airbags, seat belts, ABS, traction control (ASC+T), stability control (DSC).

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, belt inspection/replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation, symptom-based diagnostics.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all covered systems.

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions.

Diagnostic Charts:

Flowcharts and tables for diagnosing electrical and mechanical problems.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for various vehicle systems.

Depth:

Complete workshop level, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Scope:

Covers every service and repair imaginable, from basic maintenance to complete overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF (typical for factory manuals)

Quality:

High-resolution digital scans of original factory documentation

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variants:

323i (M52TU B25), 325i/xi (M54 B25), 328i (M52TU B28), 330i/xi (M54 B30)

323I Power:

170 hp @ 5500 rpm

323I Torque:

180 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

325I Power:

184 hp @ 6000 rpm

325I Torque:

175 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

328I Power:

193 hp @ 5300 rpm

328I Torque:

206 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm

330I Power:

225 hp @ 5900 rpm

330I Torque:

214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Injection Type:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Configuration:

Inline-6 (Straight-6) cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves

Displacement:

2.5L (M54B25), 2.8L (M52TUB28), 3.0L (M54B30)

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

Getrag 420G 6-speed manual (common on 330i/xi, optional on others)

Automatic Transmission:

GM 5L40-E 5-speed automatic (common on 323i, 325i/xi, 328i)

AWD:

xDrive all-wheel drive system available on 325xi and 330xi models.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF LT-3 or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III/VI depending on specific model/year)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Castrol TAF-X, Red Line MTL)

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 9.5 Liters (check manual for exact)

Manual Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 1.4 Liters (check manual for exact)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

107.4 inches (2728 mm)

Length Sedan:

180.4 inches (4582 mm)

Width:

68.5 inches (1739 mm)

Height Sedan:

55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Trunk Capacity Sedan:

11.7 cubic feet (331 Liters)

Curb Weight Approx:

3200 - 3500 lbs (1450 - 1590 kg) depending on model

Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Center Bore:

72.5 mm

Typical Wheel Sizes:

16-inch, 17-inch, 18-inch

Common Tire Sizes:

205/50R17, 225/45R17, 225/40R18 (check specific model/trim)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-star (for most variants)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for most variants)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Automatic Stability Control + Traction (ASC+T) or Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) depending on year/model

Airbags:

Front airbags, side airbags, optional head airbags

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Optional BMW Professional radio, CD player, navigation system (Business or Professional), cassette player (early models).

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS, ASC+T, DSC, Cruise Control, Park Distance Control (PDC).

Connectivity Options:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free system, CD changer.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable Service Interval (VSI) system, typically 7,500 to 15,000 miles (12,000 to 24,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil quality.

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 2 years (recommended)

Coolant Change:

Every 2-4 years or per BMW Longlife coolant specifications (e.g., BMW Blue coolant - G48)

Spark Plugs:

M54 engines: typically every 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for platinum plugs; M52TU engines: check manual (often longer intervals for iridium plugs).

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) specification, typically 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic oil.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) for 3.0L engines, check manual for specific engine.

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11S is often a suitable alternative for some models, but consult manual).

Cooling System Issues:

Plastic expansion tank cracking, water pump failure (especially plastic impeller), thermostat housing leaks, coolant hose degradation.

Engine Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failures leading to pressure buildup and leaks.

Suspension Wear:

Worn control arm bushings (especially front lower), worn sway bar links/bushings, rear trailing arm bushings.

Electrical Issues:

ABS/DSC sensor failures, instrument cluster problems (e.g., dead pixels), starter motor issues, blower motor resistor failure.

Transmission Issues:

Automatic transmission harsh shifts or failure to engage (often due to valve body or solenoid issues), clutch pedal issues (manual).

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, is renowned for producing sporty luxury vehicles with a focus on driving pleasure ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').

E46 Introduction:

The E46 succeeded the E36 generation and was produced from 1998 to 2006 (facelift in 2001). It cemented BMW's reputation in the compact executive segment with improved handling, refinement, and technology.

E46 Facelift:

The 2001 facelift (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse) brought updated styling (headlights, taillights, bumpers), revised suspension tuning, and updated interior trim.

Production Period:

1999-2005 (for models covered by this manual)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary manufacturing in Dingolfing, Germany; also produced in Austria, South Africa, Thailand, and Egypt.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

Car and Driver 10 Best list for multiple years during its production run, highlighting its enduring appeal and excellent driving dynamics.

Overall Reputation:

Highly regarded for its balanced handling, refined engines, and build quality, considered a benchmark in its class.