Segment:
Entry-luxury compact executive sedan, known for its blend of performance, handling, and refinement.
Competitors:
Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class (C320/C240 4MATIC), Lexus IS 300, Acura TL.
Vehicle Highlights:
Sporty driving dynamics, high-quality interior materials, advanced xDrive all-wheel-drive system, powerful inline-six engine.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners with the knowledge to perform maintenance and repairs, saving money and ensuring proper vehicle upkeep. Offers crucial diagnostic information for fault finding.
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive service, maintenance, diagnostics, and repair for the 2003 BMW 330xi.
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (specific count not provided in product info, but typical for official service manuals)
Type:
Service & Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (Digital)
Mechanical Systems:
Engine (M54B30), cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, exhaust system, driveline (including xDrive all-wheel drive system), braking system, steering system, suspension system.
Electrical Systems:
Engine management (DME), ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, chassis electrical components, body electronics (ELEC), comfort systems.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug service, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), belt inspection and replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), system testing procedures, wiring diagrams for electrical diagnostics.
Repair Procedures:
Engine component repair (e.g., head gasket, valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), cooling system repair (radiator, water pump, thermostat), fuel injector replacement, brake system overhaul (pads, rotors, calipers), suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, control arms), steering system repair (rack and pinion, tie rods), driveline component repair (axles, CV joints, transfer case, differential).
Depth:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, component specifications, torque values, and step-by-step repair instructions suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement:
2979 cc (3.0 Liters)
Horsepower:
225 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Valvetrain:
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves (4 valves per cylinder), Double VANOS (variable valve timing on intake and exhaust camshafts).
Transmission Type:
Getrag 420G 6-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
ZF 5HP19 5-Speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission
Drivetrain:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive System (Permanent, with variable torque split)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends specific MTF LT-2 or equivalent. Refer to manual for exact specification.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF Lifeguard Fluid 5 (LF5) or equivalent. Refer to manual for exact specification.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 out of 5 stars
NHTSA Side Impact:
5 out of 5 stars
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good
Traction Control:
Yes (ASC + T - Automatic Stability Control + Traction)
Stability Control:
Yes (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control)
Anti Lock Brakes:
Yes (ABS)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (optional).
Head Unit Options:
BMW Business CD, BMW Professional RDS CD, optional navigation system (MKIV).
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio.
Parking Assist:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) - front and rear sensors.
Telematics:
Optional BMW Assist telematics service (emergency call, breakdown assistance).
Climate Control:
Standard automatic climate control, optional heated front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval Indicator (VSI) typically recommends every 10,000-15,000 miles or based on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific VSI reset procedures.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Typically every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Coolant Flush:
BMW Blue Coolant, typically every 4 years or 100,000 miles. Refer to manual for exact spec and interval.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on plug type (e.g., Bosch FGR7DQP0E Platinum or Iridium).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil, meeting BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) specification.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 US quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based).
Common Wear Items:
Coolant expansion tank (prone to cracking), VANOS solenoids (can cause rough idle or power loss), oil filter housing gasket leaks, vacuum leaks (cracked hoses), ABS/DSC sensor failure, cooling fan clutch failure (mechanical fan models).
Suspension Components:
Control arm bushings, tie rod ends, and sway bar links are common wear items due to the sporty nature of the vehicle.
Brand Identity:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, emphasizing performance, engineering, and driver engagement.
E46 Generation Context:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) is considered a benchmark for its balanced chassis, refined powertrains, and premium interior. The 330xi variant introduced all-wheel drive to the 3 Series sedan in North America.
Production Years For Model:
The 330xi was produced from 2000 (for model year 2001) to 2006.
Car And Driver Editors Choice:
The E46 3 Series, including variants like the 330xi, was a perennial recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best award during its production run.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Generally rated as average to above average for reliability, though specific model years and common issues (as noted above) should be considered.
