🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Specific Model:

328i

Year:

2001

Chassis Code:

E46

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible (E46 Generation).

Target Audience:

Enthusiast owners, independent BMW specialists, DIY mechanics seeking in-depth repair knowledge.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for balanced chassis, RWD bias, communicative steering, and engaging driving experience.

Design Philosophy:

Classic BMW proportions, driver-focused cockpit, premium interior appointments.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

All Gasoline Engines

Transmission Coverage:

All Manual and Automatic Transmissions

Trim Level Coverage:

All Trim Levels (e.g., Base, Sport, M Sport variants if applicable)

Geographic Coverage:

Global (US, European, etc. specifications likely included)

Estimated Pages:

1000+

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery system.

Engine Management:

Ignition system, fuel injection system (DME), emissions control, sensor diagnostics, ECU operation.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox internals, shift linkage, overhaul procedures.

Transmission Automatic:

Mechatronics, valve body, torque converter, electronic control, overhaul procedures.

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, differential, axles, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

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

Brakes:

Brake system components (calipers, rotors, pads), hydraulic system, ABS/DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) operation and diagnosis, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body control module (BCM).

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), seats, airbags.

Comfort Systems:

Power windows, mirrors, seats, sunroof, central locking, cruise control.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, error code interpretation, symptom-based diagnosis.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair across all major systems.

Diagnostic Procedures:

On-board diagnostics (OBD-II), specific BMW diagnostic tools (e.g., DIS/GT1) usage overview, sensor testing.

Component Replacement:

Detailed guides for replacing specific parts like alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel injectors, brake components, etc.

Special Tools Usage:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific BMW repairs and diagnostics.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic preventative maintenance to major component overhauls and in-depth electronic diagnostics.

Detail Level:

Detailed torque specifications, clearances, component timings, and diagnostic data.

Completeness:

Full Workshop Manual, covering all aspects of repair, maintenance, and diagnostics for the specified model.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Universal PDF viewer compatibility (Adobe Acrobat Reader recommended).

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for easy workshop reference.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M52TU B28 (99-00) / N42/N46 B20 (318i) - Note: 328i specifically refers to the M52TU B28.

Engine Type:

3.0L Inline 6-Cylinder (M52TU B28)

Displacement:

2793 cc (2.8 Liters)

Horsepower:

193 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

206 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic M5.2/M5.2.1/M5.2.1E)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane)

Valve Train:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 24 Valves

Block Material:

Aluminum

Head Material:

Aluminum

Valvetronic:

No (VANOS variable valve timing is present)

Timing System:

Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual (Getrag 260/6)

Transmission Type:

5-speed Automatic (Steptronic/GM A5S310Z)

Drivetrain:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

Automatic Features:

Steptronic manual shift mode.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4471 mm (176.0 in)

Width:

1739 mm (68.5 in)

Height:

1392 mm (54.8 in)

Wheelbase:

2730 mm (107.5 in)

Front Track:

1471 mm (57.9 in)

Rear Track:

1484 mm (58.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1510 kg (3329 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Approx. 1950 kg (4299 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4 Stars (Driver), 4 Stars (Passenger)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for models equipped with side airbags)

ABS:

Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)

Traction Control:

Standard (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control + Traction)

Stability Control:

Optional/Standard depending on late-year models and specific packages (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control).

Airbags Front:

Standard dual front airbags.

Airbags Side:

Optional front-seat side airbags.

Seatbelts:

Front seatbelt pretensioners, rear three-point seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Business CD or Professional CD radio with optional CD changer, basic display for radio and climate control. Optional navigation system (MK III/IV).

Audio System:

Standard 6-speaker system, optional premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon).

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Auxiliary Input:

No standard auxiliary input; often added via aftermarket adapters or specific CD changers.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable Service Interval System (VSIS) or typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, based on driving conditions.

Inspection Interval:

BMW Inspection I and Inspection II service, typically at 30,000 and 60,000 miles respectively, involving comprehensive checks and fluid changes.

Engine Oil:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40. Check manual for specific viscosity based on climate.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 formulation), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) brake fluid.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Pentosin MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Red Line D4 ATF or BMW's recommended synthetic manual transmission fluid).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

GM DEXTRON III / MERCON or BMW ATF LT 71141. Crucial to use correct fluid to avoid transmission damage.

Cooling System Weaknesses:

Plastic expansion tank cracks, water pump failure (especially plastic impeller versions), thermostat housing leaks, radiator leaks.

Engine Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, oil filter housing gasket leaks, VANOS oil line O-ring failure.

Suspension Wear:

Control arm bushings (bushings fail and cause steering wheel shimmy), ball joints, tie rod ends, rear trailing arm bushings.

Electrical Issues:

ABS/DSC sensor failures, VANOS solenoid failures, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system issues leading to oil consumption and rough idle, instrument cluster pixelation.

Interior Wear:

Headliner sagging, seat bolster wear, door panel material separation.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, established in 1916, renowned for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan and sporty luxury vehicles.

E46 Generation:

The E46 generation (1998-2006) succeeded the E36 and is considered one of BMW's most critically acclaimed generations for its driving dynamics and design. The 328i was a key model within this lineup.

Production Years:

E46 3 Series: 1998-2006. Specific 328i sedan/coupe/convertible in the US market was primarily 1999-2000. For 2001, the 325i and 330i (replacing 328i) were the primary models, though the manual likely covers the transition or very early '01 328s if they existed in some markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

E46 3 Series models frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production run, particularly the 330i and M3 variants, highlighting its enduring appeal.

Consumer Reports:

Generally rated well for performance and driving dynamics, though reliability can vary depending on specific components and maintenance history.