🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Chassis Code:

E46

Model Year:

2000

Product Identifier:

BMW E46 2000 Service and Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Class:

Compact Executive Car

Brand Philosophy:

BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, emphasizing performance, luxury, and engineering precision.

Key Competitors:

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

Driver Focus:

Rear-wheel drive platform, balanced chassis, responsive steering, and engaging driving dynamics.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides factory-level repair and maintenance information, enabling accurate diagnostics and professional-quality service, saving significant cost compared to dealer services.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All BMW 3 Series (E46) models manufactured for the 2000 model year.

Repair Scope:

Comprehensive A-Z repairs, maintenance, diagnostics, and technical information.

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Target Audience:

Professional Technicians and Advanced DIY Enthusiasts

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF) / Printed (depending on product variant)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Detailed diagnostics, component testing, and repair procedures for all E46 engine variants (e.g., M52TU, M54, M43).

Fuel System:

In-depth coverage of fuel delivery, injection, sensors, and emissions control systems.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications, and troubleshooting.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust manifold, and oxygen sensor diagnostics.

Drivetrain Manual Transmission:

Repair, rebuild, and fluid specifications for manual transmissions (e.g., Getrag 420G).

Drivetrain Automatic Transmission:

Diagnostics and repair for automatic transmissions (e.g., GM 5L40-E, ZF 5HP19) including valve body and torque converter.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment procedures, and shock absorber/strut replacement.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rod ends, and alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pad/rotor replacement, and bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, component locations, fuse/relay identification, starter, alternator, and battery diagnostics.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, hood, trunk, and interior trim.

HVAC:

Climate control system, refrigerant handling, blower motor, and actuator diagnostics.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system diagnostics and replacement procedures.

Preventative Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, common problem identification, and solutions for various systems.

Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and installation.

Diagnostics:

Procedures for using diagnostic tools (e.g., BMW ISTA/DIS, generic OBD-II scanners) and interpreting fault codes.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical technical specifications.

Depth:

Expert Level: Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including complex electronic system diagnostics.

Diagnostic Tools Support:

Assumes use of OEM-level diagnostic equipment (e.g., INPA, DIS/ISTA) for advanced electronic troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Searchable PDF with high-resolution diagrams and printable pages.

Print Quality:

High-resolution, clear text and sharp, detailed illustrations and diagrams.

Binding Type Printed:

Professional perfect binding or spiral bound for lay-flat use in a workshop environment (if applicable).

Paper Type Printed:

Durable, coated paper stock resistant to shop chemicals and wear (if applicable).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes 2000:

M52TU (323i, 328i), M54 (325i, 330i), M43 (318i - less common in some markets).

Engine 2.5L M54B25 Power:

189 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 2.5L M54B25 Torque:

245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm

Engine 3.0L M54B30 Power:

225 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 3.0L M54B30 Torque:

289 Nm (214 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm

Engine 2.8L M52Tub28 Power:

193 hp @ 5300 rpm

Engine 2.8L M52Tub28 Torque:

280 Nm (206 lb-ft) @ 3950 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)

ECU Type:

Siemens MS43/MS43.1 (for M52TU), MS45/MS45.1 (for M54)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual (e.g., Getrag S5D 250G, Getrag GS5-39DZ)

Optional Transmission:

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

Drivetrain:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

Differential:

Open Differential (Limited Slip Differential - LSD - often optional or M-Sport package)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in)

Length:

Approx. 4470 mm (176.0 in)

Width:

Approx. 1750 mm (68.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs) depending on engine and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, typically around 1900-2000 kg

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 410 liters (14.5 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4-Star (for driver and passenger, specific year testing may vary)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for models equipped with side airbags)

Traction Control:

ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) standard on most models.

Stability Control:

DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) available as an option or standard on higher trims.

Antilock Brakes:

Standard ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)

Airbags:

Front airbags standard; Side airbags and Head protection system (HPS) airbags optional/standard on certain trims.

Seatbelts:

Pretensioner seatbelts with force limiters

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Optional BMW Business CD or Professional CD radio; Available navigation system (MK III/IV) with CRT screen.

Audio Features:

Optional Harman Kardon audio system, CD changer.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Telematics:

Optional BMW Assist telematics system (may be phased out).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) dictates intervals, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Manual specifies exact inspection points.

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Change:

BMW recommends long-life coolant, generally not specified with a mileage interval but rather based on condition or inspection.

Engine Oil Spec:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-98 approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40 depending on climate and specific engine.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

MTF LT-2 (Manual Transmission Fluid, Longlife Transmission Fluid) or equivalent.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

GM Dexron III (for 5L40-E) or Esso LT 71141 (for ZF 5HP19).

Coolant Spec:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) mixed with distilled water at a 50/50 ratio.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 High Performance brake fluid.

Common Failures M54:

CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failure leading to oil leaks and rough idle; VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid or seal leaks; Coolant expansion tank and hoses cracking; Water pump failure; Oil pan gasket leaks.

Common Failures M52Tu:

Similar to M54 but earlier iterations of CCV and VANOS; Ignition coil failure; Vacuum leaks; Oil separator issues.

Common Failures Chassis:

Subframe mounting point cracks (rear); Bushing wear (control arms, sway bars); ABS/DSC sensor failures; Window regulator failures; Radiator support issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused, sporty sedans and coupes with excellent engineering and performance.

E46 Generation Intro:

The E46 generation replaced the E36 and was produced from 1998 to 2006 (sedan/coupe), with convertibles and wagons continuing slightly longer. It marked a refinement of BMW's compact executive sedan formula.

E46 Facelift:

The E46 received a facelift (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse) in 2001, introducing revised headlights, taillights, bumpers, and updated interior trim.

Production Period:

1998 - 2006 (global, with variations for body styles and regions)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary production in Dingolfing, Germany; assembly also in Regensburg, Germany, and Rosslyn, South Africa.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The E46 3 Series models frequently appeared on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists for its segment during its production years.

Automotive Journalism Acclaim:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and performance.