🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Year:

2001

Chassis Codes:

E46

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive / Sport Sedan

Reputation:

Renowned for its driving dynamics ('The Ultimate Driving Machine'), build quality, and refined engineering

Key Competitors 2001:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS300, Acura TL

Driving Dynamics:

Rear-wheel drive platform, balanced chassis, precise steering

Engine Options:

Smooth inline-six engines known for performance and refinement

Interior Quality:

Premium materials, driver-focused cockpit, excellent ergonomics

Design:

Iconic Chris Bangle-era E46 design, understated elegance

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All 2001 BMW 3 Series models (E46 chassis)

Engine Coverage:

All gasoline engines for 2001 model year

Transmission Coverage:

Manual and Automatic transmissions

Body Styles Covered:

Sedan (4-door), Coupe (2-door), Convertible (2-door), Wagon/Touring (5-door - if applicable for 2001 in this region)

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2000+

Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, block, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, cooling system

Engine Management:

Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, engine sensors, ECU diagnostics and component testing

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shifting mechanisms, driveshafts

Transmission Automatic:

Transmission removal/installation, valve body, torque converter, electronic control unit, fluid specifications

Drivetrain:

Differential, axles, wheel bearings, driveshaft U-joints

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications

Brakes:

Brake system components (master cylinder, calipers, pads, rotors), ABS, DSC, parking brake, bleeding procedures

Steering:

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

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, power windows, seats, mirrors, wipers, horns

Body And Frame:

Body panel removal/installation, doors, hoods, trunks, bumpers, interior trim, glass, rust repair techniques

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system, components, diagnosis, refrigerant handling

Chassis Electronics:

Instrument cluster, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II), control modules (e.g., DME, EGS, ABS/DSC)

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, belt inspections/replacement

Repair Major Component:

Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, wiring diagrams, fault code interpretation

Diagnostics:

Use of diagnostic tools, sensor testing, actuator testing, circuit testing

Electrical Component Replacement:

Alternator, starter, battery, sensors, actuators, lighting units, power accessory components

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, timing settings, electrical resistance values

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, basic repairs, advanced diagnostics, and complete engine/transmission rebuilds

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Detailed fault finding guides, wiring schematics, and component testing procedures

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for specialized BMW tools where applicable

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval

Printability:

Printable pages

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity

Binding:

N/A (Digital Product)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Product)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code E46 325I:

M54B25

Engine Displacement E46 325I:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Engine Configuration E46 325I:

Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves

Horsepower E46 325I:

184 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque E46 325I:

175 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Engine Code E46 330I:

M54B30

Engine Displacement E46 330I:

3.0 Liters (2979 cc)

Engine Configuration E46 330I:

Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves

Horsepower E46 330I:

225 hp @ 5900 rpm

Torque E46 330I:

214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

Injection System:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SMPI)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 325I:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/5)

Transmission 330I:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G)

Transmission 325I Optional:

5-Speed Automatic (GM A5S360R/Z)

Transmission 330I Optional:

5-Speed Automatic (GM A5S360R/Z)

Drivetrain:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

Traction Control:

Available Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

107.4 inches (2728 mm)

Length Sedan:

177.4 inches (4506 mm)

Width:

68.2 inches (1732 mm)

Height:

55.2 inches (1402 mm)

Curb Weight 325I:

Approx. 3300-3500 lbs (1497-1588 kg)

Curb Weight 330I:

Approx. 3400-3600 lbs (1542-1633 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5 Stars

IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:

Good

Stability Control:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) on most models

Traction Control:

Standard Automatic Traction Control (ASC+T)

Braking:

4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), ventilated front discs, solid rear discs

Airbags Front:

Dual front airbags, driver's side knee airbag

Airbags Side:

Standard front side-impact airbags, available seat-mounted thorax airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts

Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard BMW Business CD, optional BMW Professional CD/Radio with enhanced speaker systems, optional Harman Kardon audio upgrade.

Navigation:

Optional MK III or MK IV navigation system with CD-ROM based maps.

Parking Sensors:

Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) - front and rear sensors.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Telematics:

Optional BMW Assist telematics system (may be deprecated).

Climate Control:

Standard manual climate control, optional Automatic climate control with digital display.

Seats:

Manually adjustable front seats with optional lumbar support, optional power-adjustable sport seats with memory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable Service Interval (VSI) system typically recommends every 10,000-15,000 miles (15,000-25,000 km) or annually, based on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific trigger points.

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) compliant synthetic oil, SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 recommended.

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based), diluted 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (API GL-4 or GL-5 compliant, refer to specific manual)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

BMW ATF LT-2 or equivalent (specific to GM A5S360R/Z, check manual for exact spec)

Common Issue Oil Vanos Seals:

Degradation of VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid O-rings and seals can lead to rough idle and reduced performance.

Common Issue Cooling System:

Plastic expansion tank, water pump, and thermostat housing are known failure points; inspect for leaks.

Common Issue Rear Subframe:

Cracking or separation of the rear subframe mounting points from the chassis is a critical structural issue requiring reinforcement.

Common Issue Window Regulators:

Plastic components in window regulator mechanisms can break, causing windows to fail.

Common Issue Ccv System:

Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system can clog, leading to oil leaks and increased crankcase pressure.

Oil Filter Example:

Mann-Filter HU 836/2 x, Mahle OX 38D (Consult manual for exact fitment)

Cabin Air Filter Example:

Mann-Filter CU 21 004 (Activated Carbon)

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw History:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, founded in 1916, renowned for engineering excellence, sporting heritage, and luxury vehicles.

E46 Generation:

The E46 generation succeeded the E36 and was produced from 1998 to 2006 (globally). It represented a significant step forward in design, technology, and driving dynamics.

E46 Facelift:

The 2001 model year often falls within the E46's mid-cycle refresh period (depending on region, typically starting around 2001/2002), which included subtle styling updates, improved interior materials, and powertrain enhancements.

Production Years E46:

1998-2006

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also Regensburg, Germany; Rosslyn, South Africa; Graz, Austria (for convertibles); Spartanburg, USA (for X models)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The BMW 3 Series (E46) was frequently honored on Car and Driver's 10Best lists in the late 1990s and early 2000s for its exceptional driving dynamics.

Motor Trend Car Of The Year:

While not specifically for the 2001 model year, the 3 Series platform consistently received high marks from automotive journalists.