Engine Codes Covered:
M52TU B25, M52TU B28, M54 B22, M54 B25, M54 B30, S54 B32 (M3)
Transmission Codes Covered:
GS5-39DZ (5-speed manual), S5D 250G (5-speed manual), GM A4S 310R (5-speed automatic), GM A5S 325Z (5-speed automatic), ZF GS6-37BG (6-speed manual)
Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible/Wagon
Reputation:
Renowned for driving dynamics, build quality, and sophisticated engineering
Competitors 2001:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35 (introduced later)
Driving Dynamics:
Near 50/50 weight distribution, sophisticated multi-link rear suspension, precise steering
Powertrain:
Inline-6 engines known for smoothness and power delivery, robust manual and automatic transmissions
Build Quality:
High-quality materials, excellent fit and finish
Engine:
Complete overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, exhaust system, emissions control
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch replacement, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts, fluid service
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering system, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, disc brake overhaul, ABS system, parking brake
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows, central locking, HVAC controls, ECU diagnostics
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass, exterior trim, interior trim, sound insulation
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnostics, refrigerant service, blower motor, climate control modules
Maintenance:
Routine oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, belt replacement, diagnostic checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic fault code lookup, symptom-based troubleshooting, step-by-step diagnostic procedures
Repair:
Component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul for all covered systems
Installation:
Includes procedures for replacing major components and systems
Depth:
Dealer-level, comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Specificity:
Vehicle-specific, not generic; covers all models and trims within the E46 generation for 2001
File Type:
Likely PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing
Searchability:
Text-searchable for quick access to information
Layout:
Clear, concise layout with diagrams and illustrations
Binding:
If physical, typically professionally bound for durability (e.g., spiral-bound, perfect bound)
Paper:
If physical, high-quality, durable paper to withstand workshop use
Engine Variants:
2.0L I6 (M52TU B20 - not explicitly mentioned but common), 2.5L I6 (M52TU B25, M54 B25), 2.8L I6 (M52TU B28), 3.0L I6 (M54 B30), 3.2L I6 (S54 B32 - M3)
2.5L (M54 B25) Horsepower:
189 hp @ 6000 rpm
2.5L (M54 B25) Torque:
181 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
3.0L (M54 B30) Horsepower:
225 hp @ 6100 rpm
3.0L (M54 B30) Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
3.2L (S54 B32 - M3) Horsepower:
333 hp @ 7400 rpm
3.2L (S54 B32 - M3) Torque:
262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential multiport fuel injection (SMPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane)
Valvetrain:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Standard Transmission All Models:
5-speed Manual (may vary by specific model variant, e.g., 6-speed for M3)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Automatic (Steptronic optional on some models)
Transmission Features:
Close-ratio gearing, smooth shifts, robust construction
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Castrol Syntrans B 75W-80)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
BMW ATF LT 71141 or equivalent (e.g., ZF Lifeguardfluid 5)
Differential Fluid:
BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G2 or equivalent SAE 75W-90
Wheelbase:
107.4 inches (2728 mm)
Length:
Approx. 177.4 - 180.4 inches (4495 - 4582 mm), depending on body style (Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Sport Wagon)
Width:
Approx. 68.9 inches (1750 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.2 - 56.7 inches (1402 - 1440 mm), depending on body style
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3100 - 3500 lbs (1406 - 1588 kg), depending on model and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, consult specific vehicle VIN
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
Wheel Size Range:
15-inch, 16-inch, 17-inch, 18-inch (M3)
Tire Size Range:
205/55R16, 225/45R17, 245/40R18 (M3)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
4 Stars (for Sedan and Wagon, as per contemporary NHTSA data)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (for models tested)
Active Safety Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control - optional/standard on higher trims)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (HPS) curtain airbags (optional/standard on higher trims), crumple zones, energy-absorbing steering column
Infotainment Systems:
Optional BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD, navigation systems (Mk III or Mk IV), optional Harman Kardon audio system
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, optional park distance control (PDC), rain-sensing wipers, automatic climate control
Connectivity Features:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface (via adapter or integrated system on later models), remote central locking, alarm system
Lighting Options:
Optional Xenon headlights with auto-leveling and headlamp washers
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on plug type (standard vs. long-life)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil, viscosity typically 0W-30 or 5W-30
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 or DOT 4 PLUS
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Common E46 Issues:
Cracked rear subframe mounting points, cooling system failures (plastic coolant expansion tank, water pump, thermostat), VANOS solenoid failure, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), ABS/DSC sensor failures, power steering hose leaks
Maintenance Focus:
Proactive replacement of cooling system components, inspection of rear subframe area, regular VANOS service/cleaning
Brand Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, engineering excellence, performance focus
E46 Generation Years:
1998-2006 (production dates vary slightly by region and body style)
E46 Facelift Year:
2001 (mid-cycle refresh including updated engines, styling tweaks, and suspension revisions)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (primarily Munich and Regensburg), South Africa, Mexico
Sales Figures E46:
Over 1.5 million units produced globally
Car And Driver 10 Best:
Car and Driver 10Best list multiple times during its production run (e.g., 1999, 2000, 2001 for various configurations)
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
Not a direct winner for the E46, but BMW as a brand consistently recognized for engineering
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally received good to excellent ratings for reliability and performance, with noted exceptions for specific components as detailed in maintenance section.
