🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Variants:

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

Year:

2002

Chassis Code:

E46

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The E46 3 Series was a highly successful and critically acclaimed compact executive car, renowned for its sporty handling, refined interior, and strong engine options, solidifying BMW's reputation in the premium segment.

Key Competitors:

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

Vehicle Highlights:

Rear-wheel drive bias, balanced chassis, powerful inline-six engines, optional xDrive all-wheel drive (on some models), advanced suspension geometry, and iconic M3 performance variant.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine Management, Lubrication, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust and Emissions, Ignition, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Driveshaft and Final Drive, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Body and Interior, Electrical System

Estimated Page Count:

High (Typically 1000+ pages for a comprehensive factory service manual of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Detailed diagnostics and repair procedures for DME (Digital Motor Electronics), VANOS, Valvetronic (if applicable to specific models/engines), ignition timing, emissions controls, and sensor data.

Lubrication And Maintenance:

Comprehensive maintenance schedules, fluid types and capacities, lubrication points, filter replacement procedures, and scheduled service items.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump testing, injector diagnosis, fuel pressure regulation, fuel tank service, and evaporative emissions (EVAP) system.

Cooling System:

Radiator service, thermostat replacement, water pump diagnostics, coolant leak tracing, and fan control systems.

Exhaust And Emissions:

Catalytic converter testing, oxygen sensor (O2 sensor) diagnostics, exhaust manifold repair, and emission control component servicing.

Ignition:

Spark plug replacement, ignition coil testing, crankshaft and camshaft position sensor diagnosis, and ignition system troubleshooting.

Manual Transmission:

Clutch replacement, transmission fluid service, internal gear inspection, shift linkage adjustment, and common wear item replacement.

Automatic Transmission:

Fluid and filter changes, torque converter service, valve body diagnosis, electronic transmission control (EGS) system troubleshooting, and seal replacements.

Driveshaft And Final Drive:

CV joint inspection and replacement, driveshaft balancing, differential fluid service, and axle seal replacement.

Brakes:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid bleeding and flushing, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics, and DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system troubleshooting.

Suspension And Steering:

Shock absorber and strut replacement, control arm bushings, ball joint service, power steering system diagnosis, steering rack repair, and wheel alignment specifications.

Body And Interior:

Door panel removal, seat adjustment mechanisms, interior trim panel replacement, bumper repair, and basic body panel alignment.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams for all systems, fuse and relay identification, lighting system repair, power window and lock diagnostics, instrument cluster troubleshooting, and body control module (BCM) functions.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, and use of BMW-specific diagnostic tools (e.g., DIS, ISTA).

Repair Procedures:

Detailed, illustrated procedures for component removal, installation, adjustment, and calibration.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance tasks including oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, and belt inspections.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, and complex electrical system diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

PDF (Portable Document Format), enabling searchability and digital navigation.

Printability:

Yes, designed for printing individual sections or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Operating Systems:

Compatible with WINDOWS and MAC operating systems.

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader or compatible PDF viewer.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code M3:

S54

Displacement M3:

3.2 Liters (3246 cc)

Cylinders M3:

Inline-6

Horsepower M3:

333 hp @ 7900 rpm

Torque M3:

262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm

Engine Code 323:

M52TU B25

Displacement 323:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Cylinders 323:

Inline-6

Horsepower 323:

184 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque 323:

175 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm

Engine Code 325:

M54 B25

Displacement 325:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Cylinders 325:

Inline-6

Horsepower 325:

189 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 325:

181 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Engine Code 328:

M52TU B28

Displacement 328:

2.8 Liters (2793 cc)

Cylinders 328:

Inline-6

Horsepower 328:

193 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque 328:

206 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm

Engine Code 330:

M54 B30

Displacement 330:

3.0 Liters (2979 cc)

Cylinders 330:

Inline-6

Horsepower 330:

225 hp @ 5900 rpm

Torque 330:

214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SMPI)

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

5-speed Getrag manual transmission (standard on most models, except M3)

Automatic Transmission:

5-speed Steptronic automatic transmission with manual shifting mode (optional on most models)

M3 Transmission:

6-speed Getrag 420G manual transmission

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-1 or equivalent (refer to manual for exact type and viscosity)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF LT-2 or equivalent (refer to manual for exact type and viscosity)

📐 Dimensions

Length Sedan:

Approx. 177.4 inches (4506 mm)

Width Sedan:

Approx. 68.3 inches (1735 mm)

Height Sedan:

Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Length Coupe:

Approx. 177.1 inches (4498 mm)

Width Coupe:

Approx. 68.7 inches (1745 mm)

Height Coupe:

Approx. 53.4 inches (1356 mm)

Width M3:

Approx. 71.0 inches (1803 mm) (wider body)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3200 - 3700 lbs (1450 - 1680 kg), varying by model and equipment.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120mm

Standard Tire Sizes:

e.g., 205/50R17, 225/45R17, 225/40R18 (M3)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Varies by model year and test, but generally performed well for its era. Specific frontal and side impact ratings should be consulted from official NHTSA archives.

Active Safety Systems:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, crumple zones, reinforced safety cell.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base audio systems, optional CD player, optional navigation system (CCC generation), basic climate control.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, parking sensors (optional on some models).

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; primarily analog radio and optional CD changer. Bluetooth was not standard.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or annually, or as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system. Refer to the manual for precise intervals and oil quality specifications.

Major Service Items:

Spark plugs (approx. 60,000 miles), coolant flush (approx. 30,000 miles), brake fluid flush (every 2 years), transmission fluid (sealed for life but recommended change around 100,000 miles for automatics, manual at 50,000-60,000 miles).

Engine Oil:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40. Exact specification may vary by engine. Consult manual.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Common E46 Issues:

VANOS solenoid failure, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), cooling system leaks (plastic expansion tank, water pump, hoses), subframe cracking (especially on coupes/convertibles), front control arm bushings wear, ABS sensor failures, "limp mode" due to various sensor or DME issues.

Common M3 Issues:

Rod bearing wear (especially on early S54 engines, requiring replacement with updated bearings), VANOS issues, throttle actuator control (TAC) module failure, clutch wear, exhaust manifold cracking.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, has a long history of producing performance-oriented, driver-focused vehicles with a strong emphasis on engineering and driving dynamics.

E46 Generation:

The E46 generation (1998-2006) succeeded the E36 and introduced significant improvements in chassis rigidity, suspension design, engine technology, and interior refinement. It was available in sedan, coupe, convertible, and wagon body styles.

Production Years:

2000-2006 for the E46 generation (specific model year of manual is 2002).

M3 Introduction Year:

M3 variant launched for the 2001 model year in Europe and 2001 in North America.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

The E46 3 Series, particularly the M3, received numerous awards and accolades from automotive journalists and publications for its driving dynamics, performance, and overall engineering excellence.