🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Trim Levels:

M3, 323i, 325i, 328i, 330i

Year:

2004

Chassis Codes:

E46 (for 323i, 325i, 328i, 330i), E46 M3

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW 3 Series, particularly the E46 generation, was a benchmark in the compact executive sedan and coupe segment, renowned for its driving dynamics, sophisticated engineering, and premium appeal. The M3 variant represented the pinnacle of performance for the series.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed directly with rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, and Infiniti G35, often lauded for its superior handling and driver engagement.

Key Features:

Exceptional handling, balanced chassis, powerful and responsive engines, premium interior appointments, and advanced technology for its era.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical System, Body, Interior, Cooling, Fuel, Exhaust, Emissions, Driveline

Page Count:

Estimated 2000-3000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Management/Driveability, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System and Emission Controls, Ignition System, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Driveshaft and Final Drive, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical System, Body and Interior

Procedures Included:

Scheduled Maintenance, Routine Maintenance, Diagnostic Procedures, Repair Procedures, Component Removal and Installation, Overhaul Procedures, Wiring Diagrams, Troubleshooting Guides, Specifications and Tolerances

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and complex electrical system diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for clear printing of diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Compatibility:

WINDOWS and MAC

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 2004 323I:

2.5L Inline-6 (M52TU/M54B25)

Engine 2004 325I:

2.5L Inline-6 (M54B25)

Engine 2004 328I:

2.8L Inline-6 (M52TU)

Engine 2004 330I:

3.0L Inline-6 (M54B30)

Engine 2004 M3:

3.2L Inline-6 (S54)

Horsepower 323I:

Approx. 170 hp

Horsepower 325I:

Approx. 184 hp

Horsepower 328I:

Approx. 193 hp

Horsepower 330I:

Approx. 225 hp

Horsepower M3:

Approx. 333 hp

Torque 330I:

Approx. 214 lb-ft

Torque M3:

Approx. 262 lb-ft

Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (S<bos>MFI)

Engine Control:

Bosch Motronic Engine Management System

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual (Getrag GS5-39DZ for most models, ZF S5-D320Z for M3)

Optional Transmission:

5-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (GM A5S320R for most models, SMG for M3)

Transmission Features:

Rear-wheel drive bias, close-ratio gearing on M3, driver-selectable modes on Steptronic and SMG

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 107.4 inches (2728 mm)

Length Sedan:

Approx. 177.4 inches (4505 mm)

Length Coupe:

Approx. 177.4 inches (4505 mm)

Length M3:

Approx. 180.0 inches (4572 mm)

Curb Weight Typical:

Approx. 3200-3500 lbs (1450-1590 kg), M3 higher

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

Likely 4-star (based on contemporary testing for similar models)

IIHS Front Offset Rating:

Likely 'Good' (based on contemporary testing for similar models)

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (ASR/ASC+T)

Passive Features:

Front airbags, Side-impact airbags, Seatbelt pretensioners, Crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Optional Professional Navigation system with CD player, standard Hi-Fi audio system. Available satellite radio and CD changer.

Driver Assistance:

Park Distance Control (PDC) optional, Cruise Control standard

Connectivity:

Onboard computer for vehicle status and diagnostics, available Bluetooth integration for hands-free calling (with compatible phone modules).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or as indicated by the vehicle's computer. Refer to manual for specifics.

Brake Fluid Change Interval:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Change Interval:

BMW advises lifetime coolant, but periodic checks and top-offs are recommended. A full flush/change might be considered around 100,000 miles or if issues arise.

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40. Always verify with manual or oil cap.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

MTF LT-2 (Manual Transmission Fluid Longlife-01)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ETL-7045E or LT 71141 (Dexron III variants for earlier models, consult manual for precise spec).

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification)

Known Issues Cooling System:

Plastic expansion tank cracking, water pump failure (especially the electric water pump on later M3s), thermostat housing leaks.

Known Issues Engine:

VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system issues (rattling noise), oil consumption on high-mileage M54 engines, PCV system failure leading to rough idle.

Known Issues Suspension:

Front control arm bushings (tCABS) wear, rear subframe bushings separation, strut mount failure.

Known Issues Electrical:

Heater blower motor resistor failure (misfire codes), ABS/DSC sensor failures, window regulator failures, CKT (Central Kinetronic) module issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW boasts a long history of producing high-performance and driver-focused vehicles, with its 'M' division being synonymous with motorsport-derived engineering and exhilarating driving experiences.

Model Evolution:

The E46 generation (1998-2006) represented a significant evolution for the 3 Series, refining its predecessor's formula with improved styling, chassis dynamics, and technology. The M3 variant elevated this to a performance icon.

Production Years E46:

1998-2006

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Car and Driver's 10 Best Cars (multiple years for the 3 Series), World Performance Car of the Year for the M3 (various publications).

Ratings:

Consistently praised for its handling, performance, and build quality by automotive journalists and critics worldwide.