Positioning:
The E46 generation BMW 3 Series, particularly the 328i, was positioned as a compact executive sports sedan and coupe, celebrated for its driving dynamics, build quality, and refined engineering. It competed against other premium offerings like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4.
Analysis:
The 328i represented a strong contender in its segment, often praised for its superior handling and driver engagement compared to some rivals, thanks to its balanced chassis and rear-wheel-drive architecture. The M52TU engine provided a good blend of performance and efficiency for its class.
Features:
The 328i (E46) is known for its sophisticated suspension, powerful inline-six engine, comfortable yet sporty interior, and hallmark BMW driving experience. This manual provides essential guidance for maintaining and repairing these key attributes.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts), lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, exhaust system, engine management (DME).
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual transmission (Getrag 5-speed), Automatic transmission (Steptronic GM 5L40-E), clutch assembly, driveshafts, differential, rear axle.
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (multi-link Z-axle), steering system (rack and pinion, power steering), wheel alignment specifications.
Braking Systems:
Front and rear disc brakes (ABS, DSC), brake system bleeding, component replacement (pads, rotors, calipers, lines).
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, central locking, airbags, instrument cluster, ECU diagnostics, wiring diagrams for all major systems.
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass replacement, chassis lubrication, rust prevention, corrosion control.
Climate Control:
Manual and automatic climate control systems, A/C service and recharge, heater core, blower motor, evaporator.
Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush and replacement, brake fluid flush, fuel filter replacement, belt inspection and replacement, routine inspections.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, clutch replacement, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, exhaust system repair, body panel repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for engine performance, electrical faults, and drivability problems.
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, engine timing procedures, diagnostic parameters, wiring diagrams, dimensional data.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical system analysis.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2793 cc (2.8 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 90.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 24 valves, Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
193 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
206 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME 7.2)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Electronic Ignition (Coil-on-Plug)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (Driver/Passenger)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Dsc:
Standard (Dynamic Stability Control)
Traction Control:
Standard (Automatic Stability Control + Traction - ASC+T)
Airbags Front:
Dual Front SRS airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional/Standard (depending on market) Side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point Inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners
Chassis Design:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Refer to Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with long-life plugs (e.g., NGK BKR6EQUP), or consult manual for shorter intervals with standard plugs.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2-3 years or as indicated by the service interval indicator.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 or Longlife-98 specification)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (or DOT 4 LV for systems with DSC)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MTF LT-2 (BMW Genuine)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
LT 71141 (Dexron III equivalent, often ATF) - consult manual for exact fill and change recommendations.
Power Steering Fluid:
CHF 11S (Pentosin)
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank cracking, water pump failure (especially plastic impeller versions), thermostat housing leaks.
Engine:
VANOS solenoid issues (hesitation, rough idle), oil filter housing gasket leaks, PCV system clogging leading to rough running or oil consumption.
Electrical:
ABS/DSC sensor failures, window regulator failures, dashboard pixelation (older models), headlight leveling sensor issues.
Suspension:
Control arm bushings (thrust arm bushings), rear shock mounts, sway bar links.
Interior:
Headliner sagging, door panel vapor barrier adhesive failure leading to water ingress.
Heritage:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, performance-oriented vehicles, tracing its roots back to aircraft engine manufacturing in the early 20th century.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation, launched in 1998 for the 1999 model year, succeeded the E36. It represented a significant refinement in styling, chassis dynamics, and interior quality, setting a new benchmark for the compact executive segment.
328I Placement:
The 328i slot was occupied by the M52B28 engine, offering a strong balance of power and refinement before the introduction of the 330i models.
Production Years:
1999-2000 (for the 328i variant)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Munich)
