Segment:
Premium Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35
Brand Philosophy:
Ultimate Driving Machine, performance, luxury, advanced engineering
Model Distinction:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series is renowned for its balanced chassis, engaging handling, and sophisticated powertrains.
Engine Management:
Driveability, diagnostics, electronic control units (ECUs), sensor testing, actuator control
Engine:
Complete disassembly, inspection, reassembly, timing, valve adjustments, piston/cylinder, crankshaft, camshafts
Ignition:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, coil-on-plug systems, ignition timing, diagnostics
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter replacement, fuel tank service, fuel delivery diagnosis
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, heater core, coolant flush and refill procedures, temperature sensor diagnosis
Exhaust System:
Mufflers, catalytic converters, exhaust pipes, oxygen sensors, emissions control systems, diagnosis of leaks and backpressure issues
Manual Transmission:
Clutch replacement, gearbox overhaul, shift linkage adjustment, transmission fluid service, bearing and gear inspection
Automatic Transmission:
Transmission fluid and filter changes, torque converter service, electronic transmission control unit (TCU) diagnostics, transmission rebuild procedures
Driveshaft And Final Drive:
Universal joints, CV joints, driveshaft balancing, differential fluid service, rear axle inspection and repair
Brakes:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake fluid flush and bleed, caliper and master cylinder overhaul, ABS system diagnostics, parking brake adjustment
Suspension And Steering:
Shock absorbers, struts, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, power steering system service, wheel alignment procedures
Body And Interior:
Door panel removal, seat adjustment and removal, interior trim, body panel alignment, rust repair basics, convertible top mechanisms (if applicable)
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, lighting systems, power windows, central locking, battery and charging system diagnostics, starter motor replacement, alternator service
Index:
Comprehensive alphabetical index for quick information retrieval
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, belt inspections and replacement
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom analysis, fault code interpretation, component testing
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) system coverage, specific BMW diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Options:
Inline-4 (323i, 325i), Inline-6 (328i, 330i, M3)
323I Engine:
2.5L M52TU B25 I6, ~168 hp @ 5500 rpm, ~180 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm
325I Engine:
2.5L M54 B25 I6, ~189 hp @ 6000 rpm, ~181 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
328I Engine:
2.8L M52TU B28 I6, ~190 hp @ 5500 rpm, ~206 lb-ft @ 3650 rpm
330I Engine:
3.0L M54 B30 I6, ~225 hp @ 5900 rpm, ~214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
M3 Engine:
3.2L S54 B32 I6, ~333 hp @ 7400 rpm, ~262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm (US Spec)
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
Engine Codes Detailed:
M52TU (2.5L, 2.8L), M54 (2.5L, 3.0L), S54 (3.2L M3)
Manual Transmission:
5-speed Getrag or ZF (depending on model/year)
Automatic Transmission:
5-speed Steptronic Automatic (e.g., GM 5L40-E)
M3 Transmission:
6-speed manual (Getrag 420G) standard on M3
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends specific synthetic gear oil (e.g., Castrol SAF-XJ for M3)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (specific BMW P/N often required)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 107.4 inches (2728 mm)
Length:
Approx. 177.4 - 183.1 inches (4506 - 4650 mm) depending on body style
Width:
Approx. 68.9 inches (1751 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.7 - 56.5 inches (1390 - 1435 mm) depending on body style
Curb Weight:
Varies by model and configuration, typically ~3300-3600 lbs (1500-1630 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, refer to vehicle specific VIN plate
Towing Capacity:
Not typically recommended for towing without specific BMW trailer hitch and cooling upgrades.
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically 7,500-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Major Service Points:
Spark plugs (~60,000-100,000 miles), coolant flush (~2-4 years), transmission fluid service (manual: lifetime/check, auto: ~50,000-100,000 miles)
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) synthetic oil, typically 0W-40 or 5W-30, depending on climate and engine
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48), or a compatible silicate-free ethylene glycol coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4, preferably BMW High Performance Brake Fluid
Common Wear Items:
VANOS solenoids/seals (M54 engines), cooling system components (plastic expansion tank, water pump), rear subframe bushings, oil pan gasket leaks, ignition coil failures
M3 Specific Issues:
Rod bearing wear (critical to monitor and address), throttle actuator issues, clutch wear
Oil Filter Part Number:
Example: Mann-Filter HU 821/2 X or Mahle OX 152/1 D (verify for specific engine)
Cabin Air Filter Part Number:
Example: Mann-Filter CU 2934 or Mahle LAK 235 (verify for specific chassis variant)
