Engine:
M54B30 3.0L inline-6, including cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems, engine management (DME).
Transmission:
5-speed manual (Getrag 420G) and 5-speed automatic (GM A5S360R/A5S390R) transmission service, repair, and diagnostics, including fluid specifications and replacement procedures.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) system, driveshaft, differential, axles, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, including struts, control arms, bushings, springs, shock absorbers, and alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, hydraulic fluid specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, component replacement (calipers, rotors, pads).
Electrical System:
12V battery system, alternator, starter, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, mirrors, central locking, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, structural components, rust prevention, underbody coatings.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C compressor, refrigerant types, evaporator, heater core, blower motor, diagnostic procedures.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, common diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting procedures for various systems, use of diagnostic tools.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks: oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, belt inspections and replacement, brake pad/rotor inspection.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components, including engine teardown and reassembly, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement, bodywork repairs.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic approaches and solutions for common and uncommon problems, fault isolation guides, symptom-based troubleshooting trees.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, engine clearances, fluid capacities, electrical system voltages, dimensional data.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems, including color codes and connector pinouts.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repairs.
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD or Professional RDS CD players, optional navigation system (MK III/MK IV).
Speakers:
Typically 6-10 speakers depending on option packages, with optional Harman Kardon sound system.
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) is standard, offering advanced traction and stability management.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth phone integration available with specific telematics modules.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Keyless Entry:
Standard remote keyless entry and central locking.
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system; typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 1 year, depending on driving conditions and sensor feedback. Manual will detail inspection points.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 100,000 miles (for original Long Life spark plugs).
Coolant Flush:
Typically every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) synthetic oil, viscosity typically 0W-30 or 5W-30. Capacity: 6.5 liters (approx. 6.9 US quarts).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 LV (Low Viscosity) or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank prone to cracking, water pump impeller failure (especially plastic ones), thermostat housing leaks.
Engine:
CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failure leading to oil consumption and leaks, VANOS solenoid issues, oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings (RTABs), ball joints, and strut mounts wear out over time, affecting handling.
Electrical:
ABS/DSC wheel speed sensor failures, rear subframe mounting points cracking (a significant structural issue requiring reinforcement), door seal water ingress.
Brand Focus:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, emphasizing performance, handling, and driver engagement.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation, produced from 1998 to 2006, is a highly regarded iteration of the 3 Series, known for its balanced chassis and refined engineering.
330I Placement:
The 330i replaced the 328i as the top-tier non-M model in the E46 lineup for the 2001 model year, featuring the more powerful M54B30 engine.
Production Years E46:
1998-2006
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), Austria (Graz), South Africa (Rosslyn), USA (Spartanburg - for certain models/facelifts).
