🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Chassis Code:

E46

Model Year:

1999

Engine Codes Covered:

M52TU (2.5L, 2.8L), M44 (1.9L - specific variants)

Transmission Codes Covered:

GM A4S 310R (4-speed automatic), ZF 5HP19 (5-speed automatic), Getrag 250G (5-speed manual)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible

Reputation:

Known for its sporting dynamics, refined interior, and advanced engineering

Primary Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS300, Infiniti G20

Driving Dynamics:

Rear-wheel drive platform, balanced chassis, responsive steering, advanced suspension tuning

Powertrain Options:

Smooth and powerful inline-six engines (M52TU) and efficient inline-four engines

Interior Quality:

Premium materials, driver-focused cockpit, excellent ergonomics

Value Proposition:

Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving on labor costs and ensuring proper upkeep.

📋 Manual Details

Geographic Coverage:

Global (reflecting factory service information)

Trim Level Coverage:

All factory available trims and configurations for 1999 E46 models

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (printable)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, transmission (manual & automatic), drivetrain (rear-wheel drive, differentials, axles)

Chassis:

Suspension (front & rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS, DSC), wheels & tires

Electrical:

Body electrical systems, lighting, instrument cluster, comfort systems (HVAC), entertainment system, power accessories, engine control modules (DME), transmission control modules (EGS), ABS/DSC modules, wiring diagrams

Body:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, HVAC components

Maintenance:

Routine scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, lubrication

Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for all covered systems, including component removal, installation, and adjustment

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault code interpretation, electrical troubleshooting charts

Rebuild:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures (where applicable)

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail, including specifications, tolerances, torque values, and diagnostic flowcharts

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Readability:

High resolution for clear viewing and printing

Printability:

Fully printable, page-by-page or entire document

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Required Software:

Adobe PDF Reader (or compatible)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Inline 4 Engine:

M44B19 (1.9L) - Found in 318i/is models. Output: Approx. 138 hp @ 6000 rpm, 133 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm.

Inline 6 Engine 2.5L:

M52TUB25 (2.5L) - Found in 323i/ci models. Output: Approx. 170 hp @ 5500 rpm, 181 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm.

Inline 6 Engine 2.8L:

M52TUB28 (2.8L) - Found in 328i/ci models. Output: Approx. 193 hp @ 5300 rpm, 206 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm.

Variable Valve Timing:

VANOS (Variable Valve Timing System) present on M52TU engines for improved performance and emissions

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI), Bosch Motronic engine management

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil-near-plug configurations.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

Getrag 250G 5-speed manual transmission standard on many models (e.g., 323i, 328i).

Automatic Transmission 4Sp:

GM 4-speed automatic (A4S 310R) optional on 318i, standard on some markets.

Automatic Transmission 5Sp:

ZF 5-speed automatic transmission (5HP19) optional on 323i and 328i.

Sequential Manual Gearbox:

Not available on the 1999 E46 model. SMG was introduced later.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (refer to manual for exact BMW specifications, e.g., SAF-XO).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Gm:

Dexron III

Automatic Transmission Fluid Zf:

BMW LT-2 or ZF Lifeguardfluid 5

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

4-door Sedan (Saloon), 2-door Coupe, 2-door Convertible, 5-door Touring (Wagon - less common in 1999 in all markets).

Wheelbase Sedan Coupe:

Approx. 107.4 inches (2728 mm)

Length Sedan:

Approx. 177.4 inches (4507 mm)

Width Sedan:

Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height Sedan:

Approx. 55.1 inches (1400 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

3100-3400 lbs (1406-1542 kg) depending on engine and body style

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to specific vehicle VIN plate, typically around 4300-4600 lbs.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm

Center Bore:

72.5 mm

Wheel Offset:

ET 47 (common for 16" wheels), ET 44 (common for 17" wheels)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:

Generally good for its era, typically 4-star or 5-star ratings for frontal and side impacts where tested.

Anti Lock Braking System:

Standard ABS on all models.

Dynamic Stability Control:

Optional DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) on most models.

Traction Control:

Part of DSC system or available as ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction).

Airbags:

Front driver and passenger airbags standard. Optional side airbags.

Seatbelts:

Pre-tensioning front seatbelts with force limiters.

Restraint System:

Comprehensive interior occupant restraint system detailed in the manual.

💡 Technology Features

Radio Options:

Various BMW Business and Professional CD/Radio units available. Cassette players were also common.

Navigation System:

Optional GPS navigation system (MKIII or MKIV based) available on higher trims.

Parking Sensors:

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

Phone Integration:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system (requiring compatible phone cradle or module).

HVAC System:

Manual or automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control) with cabin air filtration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used. BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system is implemented, monitoring oil life dynamically.

Coolant Change Interval:

BMW recommends changing coolant every 2-4 years, or as per Condition Based Service indicator. Use BMW-approved coolant (e.g., BMW Blue or G48).

Transmission Fluid Service:

Lifetime fluid was initially marketed, but extended service intervals (e.g., every 50,000 - 100,000 miles) are recommended by many technicians and the manual will detail the procedures.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for standard plugs, potentially longer for iridium/platinum plugs. Manual will specify exact type and interval.

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) or BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) synthetic oil. Viscosity typically 5W-30 or 5W-40. Manual will detail exact specification and capacity.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 low-viscosity brake fluid (BMW recommends Pentosin Super DOT 4).

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW CHF 11S or Pentosin CHF 11S (green fluid).

Cooling System Failures:

Plastic expansion tanks, water pumps, and thermostat housings are known failure points. Regular inspection and replacement are advised.

Rear Subframe Mounts:

Cracking or separation of rear subframe mounting points, especially on earlier E46 models. The manual will guide inspection and reinforcement/repair.

Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:

Common with age and mileage, often requires engine removal or subframe dropping for replacement.

Window Regulator Failures:

Plastic components in the window regulator mechanism can break, leading to windows falling into the door.

ABS/Dsc Sensor Issues:

Wheel speed sensors can fail, triggering ABS and DSC warning lights.

Vanos System:

Solenoid seals or internal wear can lead to rough idle, loss of power, and check engine lights. The manual details testing and repair.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, sporty, and reliable vehicles.

E46 Introduction:

The E46 generation of the 3 Series replaced the E36. It was launched in 1998 (for the 1999 model year in most markets) and represented a significant advancement in design, technology, and driving dynamics.

E46 Facelift:

The E46 received a facelift (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse) in 2001, with styling and feature updates.

Production Years:

1998-2006 (E46 generation overall)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily BMW's plant in Dingolfing, Germany, with some assembly also occurring in other global locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The BMW 3 Series (E46) was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10 Best Cars' list during its production run, acknowledging its superior driving dynamics.

Ward S Auto:

Engines and interior design often received accolades from automotive industry publications.

Iso Certification:

Manufacturing processes adhered to ISO 9001 quality management standards.