🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Sub Model:

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

Code:

E46

Years:

1999-2006 (with specific focus on 2003 models)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sports Sedan/Coupe

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35

Platform Emphasis:

Rear-wheel drive bias, balanced chassis, driver-focused ergonomics, premium interior materials, sporty performance.

Manual Utility:

Empowers owners and independent repair shops with the detailed knowledge to maintain and repair their BMW 3 Series, saving significant costs compared to dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

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

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed disassembly, inspection, assembly, and troubleshooting for all major engine components including cylinder head, block, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train.

Engine Management:

Coverage of DME (Digital Motor Electronics), fuel injection, ignition timing, sensors (MAF, O2, Crank, Cam, Knock), actuators (injectors, ignition coils), idle control, VANOS system.

Lubrication Maintenance:

Engine oil specifications, oil change procedures, filter types, oil pressure testing, lubrication schedules.

Cooling System:

Radiator, coolant types, water pump, thermostat, fan clutch/electric fan, hoses, expansion tank, bleeding procedures, troubleshooting overheating.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel lines, EVAP system, troubleshooting fuel delivery issues.

Ignition System:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, wiring, ignition timing, troubleshooting misfires, coil-on-plug system details.

Exhaust Emission Controls:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, secondary air injection (SAI), PCV system, troubleshooting emission control faults.

Manual Transmission:

Clutch assembly, gearbox disassembly and assembly, shift linkage, transmission fluid specifications, troubleshooting clutch and transmission issues.

Automatic Transmission:

GM 5L40-E (RWD) / ZF 5HP19 (AWD/330xi) coverage, transmission fluid type and capacity, valve body diagnosis, torque converter, electronic control unit (TCU), troubleshooting.

Driveshaft Final Drive:

Driveshaft U-joints, CV joints, differential assembly, axle shafts, fluid types, lubrication, troubleshooting drivetrain noise.

Brakes:

Brake fluid specifications, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake caliper, rotor, pad replacement, bleeding procedures, parking brake.

Suspension Steering:

Front/rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, sway bars), power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, wheel alignment specifications.

Body Interior:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seating, HVAC system (blower motor, evaporator, heater core), convertible top operation (if applicable).

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting system, instrument cluster, comfort electronics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), EWS (Immobilizer) system.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, belt inspections/replacement, spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major vehicle systems. Includes torque specifications and special tool requirements.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts, common fault identification, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic preventative maintenance to advanced component-level diagnostics and repair. Covers full engine and transmission overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchable:

Yes (typically)

Printable:

Yes

Operating Systems:

WINDOWS and MAC

Software:

Adobe PDF Reader

Type:

Digital Download (PDF)

Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M52TU B25

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Cylinders:

Inline 6

Horsepower:

184 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

235 Nm (173 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (approx.)

Engine Code:

M54 B25

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Horsepower:

189 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (approx.)

Engine Code:

M52TU B28

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2793 cc)

Horsepower:

193 hp @ 5300 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

280 Nm (206 lb-ft) @ 3200 rpm (approx.)

Engine Code:

M54 B30

Displacement:

3.0 Liters (2979 cc)

Horsepower:

225 hp @ 5900 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

289 Nm (214 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (approx.)

Engine Code:

S54 B32

Displacement:

3.2 Liters (3246 cc)

Cylinders:

Inline 6 (High-Revving, Naturally Aspirated)

Horsepower:

333 hp @ 7900 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

350 Nm (258 lb-ft) @ 4900 rpm (approx.)

Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MS43, MS45.1, MS45 DME)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual (Getrag 420G for M3, ZF S5D 310Z for others)

Type:

5-speed Automatic (GM 5L40-E RWD, ZF 5HP19 AWD/330xi)

M Drivelogic:

Not applicable to 2003 standard 3 Series, but M3 had M Power button for throttle response adjustment.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4471 mm (176.0 in)

Width:

1739 mm (68.5 in)

Height:

1415 mm (55.7 in)

Length:

4481 mm (176.4 in)

Width:

1739 mm (68.5 in)

Height:

1372 mm (54.0 in)

Length:

4492 mm (176.8 in)

Width:

1789 mm (70.4 in)

Height:

1372 mm (54.0 in)

Curb Weight Sedan:

1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs) depending on engine

Curb Weight M3 Coupe:

1570 kg (3461 lbs)

Trunk Volume Sedan:

440 Liters (15.5 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

IIHS Front Small Overlap:

Good (for models tested, generally good for the era)

NHTSA Side Impact:

4 Stars (typical for sedans of this era)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Dsc:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control (on most models)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control (ASC+T)

Airbags:

Front airbags, side airbags (optional/standard depending on trim).

Seatbelts:

Pre-tensioned seatbelts with force limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Factory Professional Radio/CD player, optional BMW Business CD or Navigation system (CCC generation).

Audio System:

Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Parking Assist:

Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC).

Cellular Integration:

Optional Bluetooth integration for mobile phones (via TCU unit) on later E46 models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (e.g., BMW Longlife-01).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 60,000-100,000 miles for the M54 engines, depending on spark plug type. M3 S54 may have different intervals.

Coolant Flush:

Recommended every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40, API SJ/SL, ACEA A3/B3 or BMW Longlife-01 approved oils are recommended.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (e.g., Castrol TAF-X, Red Line MT-90). Check manual for specific BMW PN.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

GM DEXRON III H or BMW ATF LT 71141 (for ZF transmissions). Refer to specific transmission type.

Differential Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (e.g., BMW Hypoid Gear Oil SAF-XJ).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 (BMW part number 82 11 1 468 038 or equivalent).

Cooling System Failure:

Expansion tank cracking, coolant leaks from hoses and water pump due to age/plastic components. Thermostat housing failure.

Oil Vanos Seals:

Degradation of VANOS O-rings and seals leading to poor low-RPM torque and rattling noises on startup (common on M54 engines).

Subframe Mounts:

Cracking or separation of rear subframe mounting points, especially on coupes and convertibles, leading to clunking noises and alignment issues.

Ccv System Failure:

Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system failure can lead to oil leaks, rough idle, and increased oil consumption.

Window Regulators:

Failure of window regulator mechanisms, especially on coupes and convertibles.

ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:

Failure of ABS wheel speed sensors leading to ABS and DSC warning lights.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG

E46 Introduction:

Introduced in 1998 for the 1999 model year, the E46 replaced the E36 generation. It was lauded for its refined chassis, improved interior, and range of potent inline-six engines.

E46 Updates 2003:

The 2003 model year falls within the E46's mid-cycle refresh, which included updated front and rear styling, improved interior materials, and the introduction of the M54 engine family for most models, replacing the M52TU.

M3 Introduction:

The E46 M3, launched in 2000, is considered a pinnacle of performance for the generation, featuring the high-revving S54 engine and specialized chassis tuning.

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Regensburg, Dingolfing), South Africa, Austria, Egypt, Thailand, Russia, India, China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Ten Best:

The BMW 3 Series (E46) was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best awards throughout its production run, particularly lauded for its driving dynamics.

Motor Trend Car Of The Year:

While not a winner for 2003, the 3 Series consistently ranked highly in segment comparisons and received praise from automotive journalists.