🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Year:

2004

Chassis Code:

E46 (for most variants)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive / Sport Sedan and Coupe

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, independent repair shops specializing in BMW.

Competitors 2004:

Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35, Acura TL.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive platform, responsive steering, and engaging driving experience.

Engine Offerings:

A range of potent inline-six engines known for smoothness and power delivery.

Depth Of Information:

Provides factory-level detail sufficient for complex diagnostics and repairs, rivaling official BMW service documentation.

Practicality For Diy:

Empowers owners and independent mechanics to perform a vast array of maintenance and repair tasks accurately and efficiently.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Full Service and Repair

Pages:

Extensive (typically 1000+ pages for a comprehensive manual)

Type:

Factory-level Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures for all gasoline and diesel engines offered in 2004 3 Series models, including timing systems, cylinder heads, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication systems, and cooling systems.

Engine Management:

Ignition system, fuel injection system (DME), emission controls, sensor diagnostics, ECU function, troubleshooting of engine performance issues.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox disassembly and repair, shift mechanisms, component specifications, fluid types and capacities.

Transmission Automatic:

Detailed procedures for automatic transmission (e.g., GM 5L40-E, ZF 5HP series) disassembly, rebuild, valve body diagnosis, torque converter service, electronic control unit (EGS) diagnostics, fluid and filter replacement.

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, differentials, axles, wheel bearings, universal joints, CV joints, lubrication and servicing.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems (e.g., MacPherson struts, multi-link rear), control arms, ball joints, bushings, shock absorbers, springs, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, components, fluid types, bleeding procedures, troubleshooting.

Brakes:

Brake system components (ABS, DSC, EBD), brake fluid specifications and bleeding, rotor and pad replacement, caliper service, parking brake system.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams for all circuits, battery, alternator, starter motor, fuses, relays, lighting systems, horn, power accessories.

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, HVAC system components, body sealing, corrosion protection.

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning HVAC:

System operation, refrigerant types and capacities, compressor service, evaporator, condenser, blower motor, control systems, troubleshooting.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS) operation, component locations, diagnostic procedures, seat belt mechanisms.

Body Control Module Bcm:

Central locking, power windows, remote keyless entry, interior lighting, wiper/washer systems, basic BCM diagnostics.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, cabin filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs.

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilds, cooling system flushes and component replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems (e.g., no-start conditions, rough idling, power loss, electrical faults), fault code interpretation.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing individual parts such as starter motor, alternator, fuel pump, water pump, thermostat, O2 sensors, mass air flow sensor, etc.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Testing circuits, checking continuity, diagnosing sensor and actuator faults using multimeter and diagnostic tools.

Bodywork And Trim:

Removal and installation of bumpers, fenders, hoods, trunk lids, door panels, dashboard components.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on required diagnostic tools (e.g., BMW specific scan tools like INPA/ISTA, general OBD-II scanners) and how to interpret data.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners, crucial for correct assembly and preventing component failure.

Tolerances And Clearances:

Specifications for engine internal clearances, bearing gaps, and other critical measurements for rebuilds.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive, color-coded electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of BMW-specific tools required for certain procedures (e.g., piston ring compressors, valve spring compressors, flywheel locking tools).

Rebuild Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including part replacement and alignment.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick access to specific information.

Printability:

Printable pages for use in a workshop environment.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and illustrations.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variants:

Common engines include the M54B25 (2.5L inline-6), M54B30 (3.0L inline-6). Diesel variants like the M47 (2.0L turbodiesel) and M57 (3.0L turbodiesel) may also be covered depending on specific manual scope.

M54B25 Power:

Approx. 189 hp @ 6000 rpm

M54B25 Torque:

Approx. 181 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

M54B30 Power:

Approx. 225 hp @ 6100 rpm

M54B30 Torque:

Approx. 214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (DME control)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended)

Configuration:

Inline 6-cylinder

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission (e.g., Getrag GS5-39DZ)

Transmission Type Optional:

5-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., GM 5L40-E, ZF 5HP19)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

BMW recommends specific manual transmission fluid (e.g., ATF Dexron III or equivalent for some earlier models, or specific MTF LT-2 for later units). Refer to manual for exact spec.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Requires specific ATF fluid (e.g., Dexron VI or a BMW-approved synthetic ATF like Esso LT 71141 for ZF units). Refer to manual for exact spec.

Differential Fluid:

Typically SAE 75W-90 synthetic hypoid gear oil. Refer to manual for exact spec.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 107.4 inches (2728 mm)

Length:

Approx. 177.9 inches (4519 mm) for Sedan

Width:

Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.5 inches (1410 mm) for Sedan

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3300-3500 lbs (1497-1588 kg) depending on engine and equipment

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5 Stars (for models tested)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5 Stars (for models tested)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for models tested)

Traction Control:

Standard (ASC - Automatic Stability Control on many models, DSC - Dynamic Stability Control often optional or standard on higher trims)

Anti Lock Brakes:

Standard (ABS)

Electronic Brake Force Distribution:

Standard (EBD)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, side airbags, optional head protection airbags (curtain airbags).

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

BMW Professional Radio or Business CD system, optional navigation system (MKIV or MKIII), optional Harman Kardon audio system.

Display:

Central LCD display for radio, navigation, and vehicle information. Often includes OBC (On-Board Computer) functions.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Parking Assist:

Optional rear parking assist sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC).

Keyless Entry:

Remote keyless entry and central locking.

Phone Integration:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free preparation and telematics system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends oil changes based on driving conditions, usually between 7,500 to 15,000 miles or annually. Consult the manual and vehicle's CBS for specific intervals.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Recommended every 2 years regardless of mileage.

Coolant Flush:

Typically recommended every 4 years or 60,000 miles, depending on coolant type and condition.

Spark Plugs:

M54 engines typically use long-life spark plugs with intervals around 100,000 miles. Consult manual for exact specifications and replacement intervals.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) compliant synthetic oil, typically 0W-30 or 5W-30. Refer to owner's manual and manual for specific engine requirements.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) for 6-cylinder engines. Consult manual for exact capacity.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Coolant (G48 or equivalent).

Cooling System:

Plastic coolant expansion tanks are prone to cracking, leading to leaks. Water pump failure, thermostat housing leaks, and radiator failure are also common.

Vanos System:

Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) system seals can degrade, leading to rough idle, loss of low-end torque, and increased oil consumption.

Subframe Mounts:

Rear subframe mounting points can fatigue and crack, especially on E46 models, leading to clunking noises and handling issues.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and oil filter housing gaskets are common sources of oil leaks.

Window Regulators:

Plastic components in power window regulators can break, causing windows to fall down into the door.

ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:

Front and rear ABS wheel speed sensors are susceptible to failure, triggering ABS and traction control warning lights.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) is a German luxury vehicle manufacturer with a long history of producing performance-oriented cars and motorcycles.

E46 Generation:

The E46 generation of the 3 Series (produced 1998-2006) represented a significant evolution in design, technology, and driving dynamics for BMW's compact executive line.

Production Years:

E46 generation: 1998-2006 (specific 2004 model year falls within this range).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany, with production also occurring in South Africa, Mexico, Thailand, and Egypt.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Best 10:

The BMW 3 Series consistently earned Car and Driver's '10Best' awards during this generation.

Wards Auto World:

Received various accolades from automotive publications for its driving dynamics and engineering.