Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible/Wagon
Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners, Independent repair shops, DIY mechanics
Key Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35
Vehicle Attributes:
Sporty handling, Responsive engines, Premium interior, Rear-wheel-drive bias (optional xDrive)
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners with detailed technical knowledge for maintenance and repair, saving time and money.
Vehicle Models Covered:
BMW 328i (E46) Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Wagon
Engine Variants Covered:
All M54B30 variants
Transmission Types Covered:
Manual (Getrag 420G), Automatic (GM A5S360R/Z)
Trim Levels Covered:
All available trim levels
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (M54B30), Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Drivetrain (Differential, Driveshafts)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, DSC), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Unit (DME), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Infotainment, Power Accessories, Body Electronics
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, HVAC System
Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based diagnostics
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair, Body Panel Repair
Assembly Disassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing major components
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems
Diagnostic Tools:
Information relevant to using BMW diagnostic tools like DIS or ISTA/D (though a modern reader may need specific software for full interpretation of older DTCs).
Depth:
Complete Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Advanced Electrical Diagnostics, Chassis Component Replacement, Bodywork Procedures
Quality:
High-resolution, searchable PDF
Printability:
Printable pages for workshop use
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper:
N/A (Digital Download)
Coverage Scope:
Covers all major mechanical, electrical, and body systems, including diagnostics and repair procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, Double VANOS
Displacement:
2979 cc (3.0 Liters)
Horsepower:
225 hp @ 5900 rpm
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Induction:
Naturally Aspirated, Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher)
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 24 Valves (4 per cylinder)
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G)
Type:
5-Speed Automatic (GM A5S360R/Z)
Manual Gear Ratios:
1st: 4.23, 2nd: 2.51, 3rd: 1.67, 4th: 1.23, 5th: 1.00, Reverse: 3.55
Automatic Features:
Steptronic (manual shifting capability)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent Dexron III/VI for some applications, consult manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ETL-800 (or equivalent Dexron VI)
Wheelbase:
107.4 inches (2728 mm)
Length:
177.4 inches (4506 mm) - Sedan
Width:
68.5 inches (1740 mm)
Height:
55.7 inches (1415 mm) - Sedan
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3300-3500 lbs (1497-1588 kg), varies by body style and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 4400 lbs (1996 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Not generally recommended or specified for most 3 Series models.
Trunk Capacity:
13.6 cu ft (385 Liters) - Sedan
Coupe Convertible Wheelbase:
107.3 inches (2725 mm)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 Stars
Traction Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, Side-impact airbags, Front and Rear Head Protection System (HPS)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters
Head Unit:
Professional Radio/CD Player, optional Navigation system (MK4)
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio
Stability Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Parking Assistance:
Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC)
Auxiliary Input:
Rarely standard; often required an aftermarket adapter or modification for auxiliary audio input.
System:
Automatic climate control with cabin microfilter
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 2-4 years or as per CBS.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for Long-Life plugs.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW LL-01 approved)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (BMW Super DOT 4 approved)
Engine Common Issues:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil filter housing gasket, VANOS solenoids, PCV system failures (especially the "flame trap" breather hose).
Cooling System Common Issues:
Plastic expansion tank cracking, water pump failure (often plastic impeller), radiator leaks, thermostat failure.
Electrical Common Issues:
ABS/DSC sensor failures, instrument cluster dead pixels, headlight leveling errors, window regulator failures.
Chassis Common Issues:
Control arm bushings ('RTABs'), subframe bushings, strut mounts, and rear shock mounts can wear prematurely.
Legacy:
BMW, known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', has a long history of producing sporty and luxurious vehicles.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) is the fourth generation of the 3 Series, known for refined styling, improved dynamics, and advanced technology.
328I Positioning:
The 328i offered a strong inline-six engine, bridging the gap between the sportier 330i and the entry-level 325i.
Production Years For E46 328I:
Primarily 1999-2000 in North America, with the M54B30 engine used in the 325i and 330i for 2001-2006. The 2004 328i designation may refer to specific export markets or a misunderstanding of the North American market lineup where the 3.0L engine was badged 330i from 2001 onwards. This manual covers the M54B30 engine as found in the 328i (or equivalent 3.0L engine in other markets) for 2004.
Car And Driver 10Best:
3 Series (E46) models frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production run.
Jd Power Initial Quality:
Generally rated well for its class, though certain electrical components could be a point of concern in long-term ownership.
Manual Accuracy:
Certified technical accuracy, reflecting BMW's factory repair procedures.
