🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

330Ci

Year:

2006

Chassis Code:

E46

Generation Designation:

Facelift (LCI)

Engine Code:

M54B30

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2006 BMW 330Ci (E46) represented the pinnacle of the sport sedan/coupe segment for its era, known for its engaging driving dynamics and refined luxury.

Competitors:

Competed directly with models like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6/B7), and Infiniti G35.

Vehicle Highlights:

Inline-six engine, RWD platform, balanced chassis, driver-focused interior, optional M Sport package.

Value:

Provides DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians with authoritative, manufacturer-backed repair procedures and specifications, crucial for maintaining the integrity and performance of the E46 330Ci.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete Service and Repair

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Digital Service Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (likely PDF or proprietary viewer)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (M54B30), Transmission (GM 5L40-E Automatic, Getrag 6-speed Manual), Drivetrain, Fuel System, Exhaust System

Chassis:

Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, DSC), Wheels & Tires

Electrical:

Engine Management (DME), Body Control Module (BCM), Infotainment, Lighting, Instrumentation, SRS Airbag System, HVAC Control

Body:

Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Convertible Top System (if applicable)

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Replacements, Tune-ups

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Fault Finding Procedures, Wiring Diagrams

Repair:

Component Removal & Installation, Rebuild Procedures, Component Testing, Adjustment Procedures

Specifications:

Torque Specifications, Tolerances, Alignment Data, Fluid Capacities & Types

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and major component overhaul)

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Likely PDF, optimized for searchability and ease of navigation. May include interactive elements or links.

Quality:

High-resolution graphics, clear text, professional layout. Optimized for digital display and potential printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Software)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

BMW M54B30

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6

Displacement:

2,979 cc (3.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 89.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 24 Valves (4 per cylinder), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

Horsepower:

225 hp @ 6,000 RPM (SAE Net)

Torque:

214 lb-ft @ 3,500 RPM (SAE Net)

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)

ECU Type:

Bosch Motronic ME9.0

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent)

Engine Oil Grade:

SAE 5W-30 (BMW Longlife-01 or LL-01 FE)

Oil Capacity:

6.5 US Quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Getrag 420G 6-Speed Manual Transmission

Type:

GM 5L40-E 5-Speed Automatic Transmission with Steptronic

Manual Gear Ratios:

1st: 4.23:1, 2nd: 2.52:1, 3rd: 1.67:1, 4th: 1.22:1, 5th: 1.00:1, 6th: 0.83:1, Reverse: 3.55:1

Automatic Fluid Type:

Dexron VI or BMW ATF LT 71141

Manual Fluid Type:

BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent SAE 75W-90 GL-4)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.7 inches (4513 mm)

Width:

68.7 inches (1745 mm)

Height:

53.4 inches (1356 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.3 inches (2726 mm)

Front Track:

58.2 inches (1478 mm)

Rear Track:

59.0 inches (1498 mm)

Coupe Trunk Volume:

10.7 cubic feet (303 Liters)

Convertible Trunk Volume:

11.0 cubic feet (311 Liters) with top up, 7.9 cubic feet (224 Liters) with top down

Curb Weight Manual:

Approx. 3,461 lbs (1,570 kg)

Curb Weight Automatic:

Approx. 3,527 lbs (1,600 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4,552 lbs (2,065 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5 Stars

IIHS Front Offset Good:

Yes

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Traction Control:

Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T)

Brakes:

Four-wheel disc brakes, Ventilated front and rear rotors, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, Side airbags (integrated into seats), Optional Head Protection System (HPS)

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Professional Radio or available Navigation System (CCC chassis).

Audio System:

Standard 10-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon upgraded system.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Parking Assist:

Optional rear park distance control (PDC).

Auxiliary Input:

Optional (often requires dealer activation or aftermarket integration).

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control with pollen filter.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable Service Indicator (VSI) system; typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-4 years or as indicated by the VSI.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 100,000 miles (refer to manual for exact spec and torque).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as per VSI.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (BMW Super DOT 4 recommended)

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Power Steering Fluid (or Pentosin CHF 11 S)

Differential Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5 (for standard differentials)

Engine Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter housing gasket (common on M54 engines).

Cooling System:

Plastic expansion tank cracks, water pump failure (especially plastic impeller versions), thermostat housing leaks.

Suspension:

Front control arm bushings (mentions of 'clunks' or 'wandering'), rear subframe bushings (risk of cracking).

Electrical:

ABS/DSC sensor failures, VANOS solenoid issues, ignition coil failures (can cause misfires).

Convertible Top:

Hydraulic system leaks, fabric wear, sensor issues, zipper problems.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW, founded in 1916, has a long-standing reputation for producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles with a focus on driving pleasure.

E46 Introduction:

The E46 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 1998 for the 1999 model year. The 330Ci variant replaced the 328Ci in 2001.

E46 Facelift:

The E46 received a significant facelift (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse) in 2003, which included updated styling for bumpers, headlights, taillights, and interior trim. The 2006 model year is part of this LCI phase.

Production Period:

2001-2006 (for 330Ci models)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Dingolfing and Regensburg, Germany; also assembled in other BMW plants globally.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The E46 3 Series (including variants like the 330Ci) was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best award during its production run.

Ward Top10 Engines:

The M54 engine family, including the 3.0L variant, was recognized by Ward's AutoWorld's 10 Best Engines multiple times.