Segment:
Compact Executive Convertible
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking premium open-top motoring with BMW's renowned driving dynamics and build quality.
Key Rivals:
Mercedes-Benz CLK Convertible, Audi A4 Cabriolet (later models), Lexus SC Convertible (earlier models).
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive bias, and engaging driving experience.
Convertible Design:
Sophisticated power-operated soft top, often with integrated glass rear window for improved visibility and NVH.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW premium interior materials and excellent fit and finish.
Engine Options:
Offered with BMW's smooth and potent inline-six engines.
Primary Coverage:
BMW 3 Series Convertible (E46)
Secondary Coverage:
Includes coupe and sedan variations where applicable within the E46 generation for shared systems.
Estimated Pages:
Approx. 150-250 pages (typical for this era and model)
Format:
Digital PDF (Instant Download)
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system.
Drivetrain:
Transmission operation (manual/automatic), differential, drive shafts.
Chassis Suspension Steering:
Suspension components, steering system, wheel alignment basics.
Brakes:
Brake system operation, ABS, DSC, parking brake.
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, central locking.
Interior Comfort:
Climate control, seat adjustment, interior lighting, convertible top operation.
Infotainment Audio:
Radio operation, CD player, speaker system, antenna.
Safety Security:
Airbags, seat belts, child seat installation, alarm system, immobilizer.
Basic Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, driving techniques, parking.
Maintenance Checks:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement.
Convertible Top Operation:
Detailed instructions on operating and caring for the power convertible soft top.
Troubleshooting Warnings:
Explanation of dashboard warning lights and indicators, basic troubleshooting tips.
Emergency Procedures:
Tire changing, jump starting, emergency towing.
Depth:
Covers essential information for the end-user/owner, focusing on operation, maintenance, and basic safety. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic codes.
Engine Code Common:
M54B30 (for 330Ci)
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves
Displacement:
2979 cc (3.0 Liters)
Horsepower:
Approx. 225 hp @ 5900 rpm (for M54B30)
Torque:
Approx. 214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (for M54B30)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type Recommendation:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher)
Common Variants:
323Ci (2.5L M52TU), 328Ci (2.8L M52TU), 330Ci (3.0L M54)
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G)
Type:
5-Speed Automatic (Steptronic with manual shift mode)
Automatic Features:
Adaptive shift logic, Comfort and Sport modes (on some models).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent Pentosin LV)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent Pentosin G5)
Length:
Approx. 177.4 inches (4506 mm)
Width:
Approx. 68.9 inches (1750 mm)
Height:
Approx. 53.2 inches (1351 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 107.4 inches (2729 mm)
Seating Capacity:
4 Passengers
Trunk Volume Convertible Top Up:
Approx. 11.1 cubic feet (314 liters)
Trunk Volume Convertible Top Down:
Approx. 8.1 cubic feet (229 liters)
Curb Weight Approx:
3500-3700 lbs (1588-1678 kg) depending on engine and options
NHTSA Front Impact:
Likely Good (based on similar E46 models, though specific convertible ratings may vary)
IIHS Side Impact:
Likely Acceptable to Good (based on similar E46 models)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard on most models.
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T) or Dynamic Traction Control (DTC).
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, side-impact airbags in seats.
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up rollover protection bars behind headrests, deploy automatically in a rollover event.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.
Audio System:
BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD (optional), with available Harman Kardon premium sound system.
Navigation:
Optional BMW Business Navigation system (MK III or MK IV unit).
Parking Assist:
Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Bluetooth:
Not typically standard; may have been an dealer-installed option or aftermarket addition.
Oil Change Interval Typical:
Variable Service Interval Indicator (VSI) system, typically 7,500 - 15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement Typical:
Approx. 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., long-life platinum/iridium)
Coolant Flush Typical:
Every 2-4 years or as indicated by the VSI.
Brake Fluid Flush Typical:
Every 2 years (moisture absorption).
Engine Oil Type Typical:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic, meeting BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) specification.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW Power Steering Fluid.
Cooling System Component:
Plastic expansion tank and water pump housing can become brittle and crack over time, leading to leaks. Thermostat housing also prone to leaks.
Ccv System:
Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system can clog, leading to increased crankcase pressure, oil leaks, and rough running.
Oil Pan Gasket:
Oil pan gasket and rear main seal are known to leak due to age and heat.
Convertible Top Mechanism:
Hydraulic lines and pumps for the convertible top can develop leaks. Microswitches and seals can also fail.
Suspension Components:
Front control arm bushings, tie rod ends, and rear shock mounts are wear items that can cause steering looseness and clunks.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's long history of building driver-focused performance sedans and coupes, extending into the convertible market with models like the 2002 Cabriolet and E30 Convertible.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) was a significant leap forward in design, technology, and chassis refinement from the E36 generation.
Convertible Introduction:
The E46 convertible was introduced for the 2000 model year, replacing the E36 convertible.
Manufacturing Location:
Regensburg, Germany (primary)