Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible/Wagon
Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Acura TL, Infiniti G35
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and engaging driving experience.
Powertrain Options:
Offered a range of efficient and powerful inline-four and inline-six gasoline engines.
Design:
Classic BMW proportions, often praised for its timeless styling.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, maintenance, repair, rebuilding, and troubleshooting for all E46 engine variants.
Transmission:
Coverage of both manual and automatic transmissions, including removal, installation, repair, and fluid specifications.
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Comprehensive information on suspension components, steering systems, brake systems (including ABS), and alignment specifications.
Body:
Body panel repair, chassis data, corrosion prevention, and exterior component replacement.
Body Equipment:
Interior and exterior trim, door mechanisms, seating, glass, and related components.
Electrical System:
Detailed diagnostics, component testing, repair procedures for all electrical circuits.
Equipment Accessories:
Information on climate control, audio systems, power accessories, and other factory-installed options.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems, crucial for electrical diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspections.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures, common fault finding, and troubleshooting guides for various systems.
Repair Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for disassembling, repairing, reassembling, and installing major vehicle components and systems.
Refurbishment Restoration:
Guidance for bringing the vehicle back to optimal working condition, often involving extensive component overhauls.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to advanced engine and electrical system rebuilds and diagnostics.
Engine Families:
M43 (inline-4), M52/M54 (inline-6)
Inline 4 Displacement Range:
1.8L to 2.0L (e.g., M43B18, M43B19, N42B20, N46B20)
Inline 6 Displacement Range:
2.0L to 3.2L (e.g., M52B20, M52B25, M54B22, M54B25, M54B30, S54B32 for M3)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 115 hp to 333 hp (depending on engine and model variant, e.g., M3)
Torque Range:
Approximately 180 Nm to 350 Nm (depending on engine and model variant)
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - often Bosch Motronic
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (premium recommended)
Body Styles:
Sedan (4-door), Coupe (2-door), Convertible (2-door), Wagon (Touring - 5-door)
Wheelbase Range:
Approximately 2760 mm to 2830 mm (depending on body style)
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 1400 kg to 1700 kg (depending on body style and engine)
NHTSA Ratings:
Generally performed well in crash tests for its era, with specific ratings varying by year and test methodology.
Traction Control:
Available as ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) or DSC (Dynamic Stability Control).
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional side airbags.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage and crumple zones.
Audio System:
Standard BMW Professional Radio, with optional premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon) and CD changers available.
Navigation:
Optional BMW Professional Navigation system available, often with a built-in screen.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC).
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth phone integration was available on later models.
Climate Control:
Standard manual climate control, with optional automatic climate control (IHKA) and heated seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, often determined by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system on later models within the range.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 2 years.
Coolant Flush:
Typically every 3-5 years or a specific mileage range (e.g., 50,000 miles).
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 approved synthetic oil, viscosity typically 0W-40 or 5W-30 depending on climate and specific engine.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based).
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; water pumps, especially the plastic impeller type, are prone to failure.
Vanos System:
Variable Valve Timing (Vanos) O-rings can degrade, leading to rough idle, loss of low-end torque, and check engine lights, particularly on M54 engines.
Subframe Mounts:
Rear subframe mounting points can crack or tear from the chassis due to stress, a known structural weak point.
Oil Pan Gasket:
Oil pan gasket leaks are common, particularly on higher mileage vehicles.
Ccv System:
The Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system can become clogged, leading to oil leaks, blue smoke, and rough running.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing sporty, well-engineered vehicles with a focus on driving pleasure.
E46 Positioning:
The E46 generation succeeded the E36 3 Series and was a critical model for BMW, solidifying its market position in the premium compact executive segment.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany (e.g., Munich, Regensburg), with some assembly also occurring in other global locations.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The 3 Series (including E46 variants) was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list for its segment-defining driving dynamics.
Automotive Journalism Praise:
Widely praised by automotive journalists for its performance, handling, and build quality throughout its production run.
