Segment:
Compact Executive Car (Premium)
Reputation:
Renowned for driving dynamics, build quality, and sophisticated engineering.
Primary Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6/B7), Lexus IS (XE10/XE20), Infiniti G35, Acura TL
Driving Dynamics:
Rear-wheel drive platform, balanced chassis, sophisticated multi-link suspension, communicative steering.
Engine Options:
Range of inline-6 engines and the high-performance S54 inline-6 for the M3.
Build Quality:
High standards of materials and fit-and-finish, characteristic of BMW.
Design:
Chris Bangle's design era, featuring flame surfacing and distinctive lines.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication, exhaust system, emissions control
Transmission Drivetrain Systems:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, Steptronic transmission, clutch, driveline, axles, differentials, driveshafts, transfer case (xi models)
Suspension Steering Systems:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, power steering, wheel alignment
Brake Systems:
Front brakes, rear brakes, parking brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instruments, driver information system, power windows, power locks, mirrors, seats, sunroof
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (climate control), refrigerant, components
Body Chassis Systems:
Body structure, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, bumpers, body seals, chassis components
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) control unit
Infotainment Systems:
Radio, CD player, navigation system (optional), speaker systems
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, coolant flush, air filter replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), diagnostic tool usage (e.g., ISTA/D), component testing
Repair Procedures:
Engine component removal and installation (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft), transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair/replacement, body panel repair
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, inspection, repair, and reassembly
Adjustment Procedures:
Wheel alignment, headlight aiming, idle speed adjustment (if applicable)
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag S5D 250G for most models, Getrag S6S 420G for M3)
Optional Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (ZF 5HP19FLA for most models), 6-speed Manual (Getrag S6S 420G for M3)
Steptronic:
Available on automatic transmissions, allowing manual gear selection.
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) standard, xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD) available on 'xi' models.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 107.4 inches (2728 mm)
Length:
Approx. 177.4 - 183.2 inches (4506 - 4653 mm) depending on body style
Width:
Approx. 68.3 - 71.5 inches (1735 - 1816 mm) depending on model and M3
Height:
Approx. 54.1 - 57.0 inches (1374 - 1448 mm) depending on body style
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3300 - 3800 lbs (1497 - 1724 kg) depending on configuration
Trunk Volume Sedan:
Approx. 11.7 cu ft (331 L)
Trunk Volume Coupe:
Approx. 10.7 cu ft (303 L)
Trunk Volume Convertible:
Approx. 11.2 cu ft (317 L) with top up
Cargo Volume Wagon:
Approx. 15.0 cu ft (425 L) behind rear seats, expandable
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD, or BMW Professional RDS radios. Optional CD changers, navigation systems (Mk III or Mk IV systems).
Display:
Central LCD screen for climate control, radio, and navigation information. Driver information system in the instrument cluster.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC).
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth mobile phone preparation with cradle.
Telematics:
Optional BMW Assist telematics service (depending on market and year).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Coolant Change:
Recommended every 2-3 years or as per CBS.
Brake Fluid Change:
Recommended every 2 years.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km), depending on plug type and engine.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) certified synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-40. Refer to owner's manual for exact grade.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 rated gear oil, typically 75W-90 or 80W-90. Refer to manual for specific type (e.g., Pentosin).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
BMW ATF LT-3 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF1). Critical to use the correct fluid to prevent damage.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 low viscosity.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW's own power steering fluid.
Common E46 Issues:
Cooling system failures (plastic expansion tank, water pump, thermostat), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system issues, oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, subframe cracking (rear), ABS/DSC sensor failures, idle control valve issues, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failure leading to oil consumption and rough idle.
M3 Specific Issues:
Rod bearing wear (requiring inspection and potential replacement), carbon fiber driveshaft flex disc wear, clutch wear, subframe cracking (more prevalent than non-M3).
Oil Filter 330I:
11 42 1 740 116 (common OE part number structure)
Air Filter 325I:
13 72 1 703 719
Cabin Filter:
64 11 2 177 372
Bmw Legacy:
Founded in 1916, BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is a German luxury vehicle manufacturer renowned for performance, engineering, and the 'Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan.
E46 Introduction:
The E46 succeeded the E36 3 Series and was produced from 1998 to 2006. It was a critical success, significantly improving on its predecessor in terms of chassis dynamics, interior refinement, and technology.
Facelift:
A mid-cycle facelift occurred in 2001, with updated exterior styling (headlights, taillights, bumpers), interior refinements, and mechanical updates, including the introduction of the M54 engines for most models.
M3 Variant:
The E46 M3, introduced in 2000, is considered one of the best M cars of all time, featuring the legendary S54 naturally aspirated inline-6 engine and a chassis optimized for track performance.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary assembly in Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), with additional assembly in other countries including South Africa and Thailand.
Sales Figures:
Over 1.5 million E46 models produced globally, making it a highly successful generation for BMW.
