Positioning:
The BMW 3-Series (E46) was a benchmark in the premium compact executive segment, known for its dynamic driving characteristics, build quality, and sophisticated technology.
Competitors:
Key competitors included the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, and Infiniti G35.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution, responsive steering, and balanced chassis.
Powertrain Options:
A range of smooth, powerful inline-six engines, and efficient four-cylinder options, paired with excellent manual and automatic transmissions.
Build Quality:
Exceptional German engineering and build quality, contributing to its long-term desirability.
Primary Coverage:
All 2005 BMW 3-Series (E46) models, all repairs A-Z
Model Variants Covered:
Sedan (E46/4), Coupe (E46/2), Convertible (E46/3), Sports Wagon (E46/5), M3 (E46/2CSL)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Print (likely binder or perfect bound)
Powertrain:
Engine (all variants), Transmission (manual & automatic), Drivetrain (RWD, AWD - xDrive on select wagons/sedans)
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, DSC, handbrake)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, ECUs, sensors, lighting, power windows, seats, climate control, infotainment, security systems
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, convertible top mechanisms, glass
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, belt inspection/replacement
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
DTC interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance issues
Component Repair Overhaul:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, driveshaft and CV joint repair
System Calibration Adjustment:
Wheel alignment, idle speed adjustment, throttle body cleaning and calibration, airbag system component replacement
Depth:
Complete, from basic maintenance to in-depth diagnostics and full component rebuilds, including torque specifications, tolerances, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Format Description:
Printed manual, likely featuring high-quality paper and a durable binding suitable for workshop use.
Quality:
Professional, dealership-grade printing with clear diagrams and text.
Binding:
Likely spiral-bound or ring-binder for lay-flat usability, or perfect-bound for robustness.
Paper Quality:
Durable, matte finish paper designed to withstand workshop environments and frequent handling.
Engine Code:
N46B20 (4-cylinder), M54B22, M54B25, M54B30 (6-cylinder)
Displacement 2.0L:
1995 cc (N46B20)
Displacement 2.2L:
2171 cc (M54B22)
Displacement 2.5L:
2494 cc (M54B25)
Displacement 3.0L:
2979 cc (M54B30)
Horsepower 3.0L:
225 hp @ 5900 rpm (M54B30)
Torque 3.0L:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (M54B30)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug
ECU:
Bosch Motronic (specific variant depends on engine and market)
Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag GS5-39DZ, GS6-37DZ variants for later models)
Type:
5-speed Automatic (Steptronic/SMG on some performance models)
Smg:
Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) available on M3 models
Drive Type:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on select models
Length:
Approx. 4526 mm (178.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 1739 mm (68.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 in)
Length:
Approx. 4471 mm (176.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1739 mm (68.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1372 mm (54.0 in)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1470 kg (3240 lbs) to 1600 kg (3527 lbs) depending on model and configuration
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for applicable models/years, generally consistent for E46 generation)
IIHS Front Impact:
Good (for applicable models/years)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC) or Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side airbags, optional head protection airbags
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD/RDS; optional navigation systems (CCC generation on facelift models).
Audio System:
Optional Harman Kardon sound system.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC).
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth integration for mobile phones available on later models.
HVAC:
Manual climate control or optional automatic climate control (IHKA).
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval (CBS) based on driving conditions, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months. Manual specifies conditions for more frequent changes.
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (or per manual's schedule).
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Typically every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, e.g., SAE 5W-30 or 0W-40 depending on temperature and specific engine.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 High Performance
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MTF LT-2 (Manual Transmission Fluid)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Esso ATF LT 71141 or equivalent (for 5HP19, 5HP24 transmissions)
Cooling System Failures:
Water pump failures (plastic impeller), thermostat housing leaks, radiator leaks, expansion tank cracks are common E46 wear items.
Subframe Mounts:
Cracking or separation of rear subframe mounting points, particularly on earlier models or hard-driven cars.
Oil Vanos:
VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) unit seals can degrade, leading to rough idle or low-end torque issues.
Ccv System:
Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system failure can cause oil leaks, poor idling, and increased oil consumption.
Window Regulators:
Plastic clips in window regulator mechanisms are prone to breaking, causing windows to fall into the door.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, high-performance vehicles with superior engineering.
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation succeeded the E36 and was produced from 1998 to 2006 (with the 2005 model year being toward the end of its lifecycle).
E46 Facelift:
The E46 received a significant facelift (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse) in 2001, affecting exterior styling, interior trim, and powertrain options.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (e.g., Dingolfing), with some assembly in other global locations.
E46 Successors:
Succeeded by the E90 (sedan) and E92/E93 (coupe/convertible) generation.
