Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional technicians
Key Competitors 2004:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35
Vehicle Strengths:
Engaging driving dynamics, premium interior, strong inline-six engine, sporty styling
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables owners to perform complex repairs and maintenance, saving on labor costs and ensuring proper vehicle upkeep.
Powertrain:
Engine (M54B30), Transmission (GM A5S360R/A5S390R Automatic, Getrag 420G Manual), Drivetrain (Rear-wheel drive, Differential)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front MacPherson strut, Rear multi-link), Steering (Hydraulic power steering), Brakes (Front ventilated discs, Rear solid discs, ABS, DSC)
Electrical:
Engine control module (DME), Body control module (BCM), Lighting, HVAC controls, Infotainment system, Power accessories (windows, mirrors, seats), Sensor systems
Body:
Exterior body panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Interior trim, Seating systems
Maintenance:
Oil changes, Filter replacements, Spark plug replacement, Fluid checks and top-offs, Brake pad/rotor replacement, Belt inspection/replacement
Repair:
Engine overhaul, Transmission repair/rebuild, Suspension component replacement, Brake system repair, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement, HVAC system repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), Symptom-based diagnostics, Electrical circuit testing, Mechanical component testing
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, DME advanced diagnostics, Live data interpretation, Component testing procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level repair, including detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and diagnostic procedures.
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 420G)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (GM A5S360R / A5S390R)
Automatic Features:
Steptronic manual shifting mode
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ETL-7045E or equivalent
NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:
5-Star
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, Side-impact airbags, Front and rear head protection system (optional)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD (optional)
Navigation:
Optional MKIV navigation system with CD-ROM maps
Parking Assist:
Rear Park Distance Control (PDC) optional
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth mobile phone integration
Audio Interface:
Optional CD changer, auxiliary input (late models)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 - 10,000 miles or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs.
Coolant Replacement:
Initial fill and then typically every 2-4 years or as per CBS.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 approved)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 US quarts (6.2 liters)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48)
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank and water pump failures are common. Coolant leaks from hoses and the thermostat housing.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing gasket can leak.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings and ball joints can cause steering looseness and noise.
Electrical:
ABS/DSC wheel speed sensor failures, VANOS solenoid issues, and ignition coil failures are known.
Heritage Summary:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused luxury vehicles with a strong emphasis on performance and engineering.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) is considered a benchmark for driving dynamics in its class. The 2004 model represents a mid-cycle facelift update for many variants.
Production Period:
2000-2006 (E46 3 Series)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), Austria (Graz - Magna Steyr)
