Positioning:
The E46 generation BMW 3 Series was positioned as a compact executive car, renowned for its driving dynamics, premium interior, and sporty performance, making it a benchmark in its class.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, and Infiniti G35.
Driving Dynamics:
Balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive bias, responsive steering, and a focus on driver engagement.
Engine Options:
Smooth and potent inline-six engines known for their refinement and power delivery.
Build Quality:
High levels of interior fit and finish, premium materials, and robust mechanical components.
Engine:
All gasoline engines (M54B22, M54B25, M54B30)
Drivetrain:
Transmission (manual & automatic), Clutch, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles
Suspension:
Front & Rear Suspension, Steering System
Brakes:
Front & Rear Brakes, ABS, DSC
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Engine Management, Body Electronics, DME, EWS, IBS
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning System
Fuel System:
Fuel Tank, Pump, Injectors, Lines
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Hoses
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Tune-ups
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake Pad Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Interpretation, Diagnostic Tool Usage (e.g., GT1/DIS)
Installation:
Component Installation and Replacement (e.g., Alternator, Starter)
Calibration:
Wheel Alignment, Sensor Calibration
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.
Engine Codes:
M54B22 (2.2L), M54B25 (2.5L), M54B30 (3.0L)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder, DOHC, 24 Valves
Horsepower Range:
170 hp (2.2L) to 225 hp (3.0L)
Torque Range:
164 lb-ft (2.2L) to 201 lb-ft (3.0L)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)
Transmission Type Std:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag GS5-39DZ)
Transmission Type Opt:
5-Speed Automatic (GM A5S360R/A5S390R)
Transmission Features:
Sport mode, manual shifting capability (SMG option available on some models, though less common for the 2003 base models covered).
Wheelbase:
107.4 inches (2728 mm)
Length:
177.4 inches (4505 mm)
Width:
68.7 inches (1745 mm)
Height:
55.7 inches (1415 mm)
Curb Weight Range:
3300 - 3500 lbs (approx.)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and configuration
Trunk Volume:
11.2 cubic feet (Sedan), 15.0 cubic feet (Wagon)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4 Stars
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4 Stars
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Front Airbags, Side-curtain Airbags (optional on some models)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters
Infotainment System:
Optional BMW Professional Radio, CD Player, optional Navigation system (CCC)
Audio Features:
Premium sound system options (e.g., Harman Kardon)
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC)
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface (often requiring a cradle).
Telematics:
Optional TeleService and Assist features
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Oil Service Interval (Condition Based Service - CBS), typically 7,500-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000 - 100,000 miles, depending on plug type (e.g., Long Life)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) compliant synthetic oil. Viscosity typically 5W-30 or 0W-30.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based). Use a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MTF LT-2 (BMW Part No. 83 22 0 309 299) or equivalent spec.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III / Dexron III H (e.g., BMW Part No. 83 22 0 024 359) or equivalent. Always consult specific transmission type.
Differential Fluid:
BMW Hypoid Gear Oil (SAF-XJ or SAF-DJ) or equivalent spec.
Cooling System Weaknesses:
Plastic expansion tank cracks, water pump failure (plastic impeller), thermostat housing leaks.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket leaks, oil filter housing gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks.
Vanos Issues:
Degradation of O-rings in the VANOS solenoid system, leading to rough idle and power loss.
Window Regulator Failure:
Common failure of plastic components in the window regulator mechanism.
ABS Dsc Module Failure:
Intermittent faults or complete failure of the ABS/DSC control module due to solder joint issues.
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan, emphasizing performance, engineering, and luxury.
E46 Generation Start:
The E46 generation was introduced in 1998 for the 1999 model year and ran through 2006. The 2003 model year is part of its mid-cycle refresh, featuring updated styling and technology.
Production Locations:
Primarily Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), also South Africa, and contract assembly in other countries.
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The 3 Series (E46) was a consistent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production run, praised for its handling and performance.
Jd Power Dependability:
Generally received good to excellent ratings in initial quality and long-term dependability surveys for its era.
Safety Certifications:
Meets or exceeds all federal motor vehicle safety standards for its model year.
