🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

330Ci

Year:

2001

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code Family:

M54

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Premium Compact Executive Coupe

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts and owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, as well as professional independent mechanics.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe, Audi A4 Cabriolet, Lexus IS Coupe.

Vehicle Philosophy:

BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, emphasizing sporty handling, powerful engines, and driver engagement.

Manual Advantage:

Officially licensed, offering factory-level accuracy and completeness, superior to generic third-party guides.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Comprehensive service, repair, maintenance, and diagnostics

Specific Systems:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Body, HVAC, Emissions

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary application)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Detailed coverage of the M54 engine (including variants), cooling system, fuel system, lubrication, exhaust system, and engine management.

Drivetrain:

Manual and automatic transmission (GM 5L40-E), clutch, driveshaft, differential, and axle shafts.

Chassis:

Front and rear suspension, steering system (rack and pinion), brake system (ABS, DSC), wheel bearings, and mounting points.

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, ECU functions, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, instrument cluster, infotainment, power windows, mirrors, and central locking.

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, seat adjustments, airbag systems, and interior trim.

HVAC And Emissions:

Air conditioning system, climate control, cabin air filter, and emissions control systems (SAE J1850 PWM, OBD-II).

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, air filter replacement, cabin filter replacement, battery testing and replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common issues, DTC code interpretation, sensor testing, component testing using diagnostic tools (e.g., INPA, ISTA).

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement (e.g., water pump, thermostat, alternator, starter, clutch, brake pads/rotors, suspension components).

Rebuilds And Overhauls:

Detailed procedures for engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, and differential rebuilding.

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, electrical component resistance and voltage values, engine timing specifications.

Depth:

Expert-level, encompassing everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and component-level repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely a comprehensive database or searchable PDF collection, optimized for quick access to information.

Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams, schematics, and photographic illustrations.

Binding:

Not Applicable (Software)

Paper:

Not Applicable (Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

BMW M54B30

Configuration:

3.0L (2979cc) Inline-6 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 89.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Valvetrain:

Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

Horsepower:

225 hp @ 5900 rpm

Torque:

214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Induction:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

ECU Type:

Siemens MS43 / MS45

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag S5D 250G)

Type:

5-Speed Automatic (GM 5L40-E)

Manual Gear Ratios 3.46:

1st: 4.23, 2nd: 2.50, 3rd: 1.67, 4th: 1.22, 5th: 1.00, Reverse: 3.55

Automatic Features:

Adaptive shift logic, Steptronic manual shifting mode.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-1 or equivalent (check specific manual for exact spec)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III / Mercon or BMW ATF LT-71141 (check specific manual for exact spec)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

174.5 inches (4432 mm)

Width:

68.5 inches (1740 mm)

Height:

53.2 inches (1351 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.4 inches (2729 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3300-3450 lbs (1497-1565 kg), depending on transmission and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not explicitly stated, but typically around 4500 lbs (2041 kg).

Trunk Volume:

11.2 cubic feet (317 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (for driver and passenger, 2001 model year testing)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for all passengers, 2001 model year testing)

Traction Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Braking:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, optional rollover protection (for convertible models).

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Business CD or Professional CD with optional navigation system (MKIII).

Audio System:

Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio.

Stability Control:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC).

Bluetooth:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system.

Telematics:

Optional BMW Assist telematics system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 12 months, based on BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system or by mileage.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended at 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (e.g., iridium).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).

Brake Fluid Flush Interval:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-40 or 0W-30 Synthetic (BMW LL-01 approved). Check manual for specific viscosity and BMW approval code.

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 US quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based antifreeze.

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or CHF 202 (green colored)

Common Problems:

Oil filter housing gasket leaks, CCV system failures leading to rough idle and oil consumption, VANOS solenoid failures, cooling system component failures (water pump, thermostat, expansion tank), rear axle bushing wear, window regulator failures, ignition coil failures.

Vibration Issues:

Driveshaft center support bearing wear, wheel balancing, tire issues, control arm bushings.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW)

Legacy:

Renowned for performance, engineering, and luxury vehicles since 1916.

Generation:

E46 (produced 1998-2006 for sedan/wagon, 1999-2006 for coupe/convertible)

330Ci Introduction:

Introduced for the 2001 model year as the successor to the 328Ci, featuring the larger M54 engine.

Facelift Timing:

The E46 received a significant facelift for the 2002 model year, which included updated headlights, taillights, bumpers, and interior trim. The 2001 model year represents the pre-facelift design.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary production in Munich, Germany, with additional facilities in Dingolfing, Germany, and Regensburg, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Best 10:

The E46 3 Series, including variants like the 330Ci, was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production run for its excellent driving dynamics.

Consumer Reports:

Generally rated well for predicted reliability, though specific model years and common issues should be noted.

Manual Licensing:

Officially Licensed by BMW, ensuring factory-level accuracy and detail.