Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Touring
Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Volvo S60
Vehicle Strengths:
Driving dynamics, premium interior, efficient diesel engines, build quality
Manual Benefit:
Empowers owners and technicians with in-depth knowledge for optimal vehicle maintenance and repair
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, turbocharging (for diesel variants)
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission, Automatic transmission (including hydraulics, electronics, and components)
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles
Suspension Steering Systems:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering rack, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications
Brake Systems:
Front and rear brakes (discs/drums), ABS system, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wipers, horn, body control modules, fuse box diagrams, wiring diagrams
Body Exterior Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seats, trim, HVAC system
Diagnosis Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), common fault finding procedures, repair strategies
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug/glow plug replacement, coolant flush, brake pad replacement, belt replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for various systems, use of diagnostic tools
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced diagnostics, including interpretation of sensor data and fault codes
Engine Code 320D:
M47 (e.g., M47TÜ, M47R)
Engine Code 330D:
M57 (e.g., M57, M57TÜ)
320D Horsepower:
Approx. 150-163 hp (depending on specific M47 variant)
320D Torque:
Approx. 330-340 Nm (depending on specific M47 variant)
330D Horsepower:
Approx. 184-204 hp (depending on specific M57 variant)
330D Torque:
Approx. 390-410 Nm (depending on specific M57 variant)
Injection System:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI)
Cylinder Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder (320d), Inline 6-cylinder (330d)
Displacement 320D:
2.0 Liters (1995 cc)
Displacement 330D:
3.0 Liters (2926 cc)
Aspiration:
Turbocharged with Intercooler
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual (earlier 320d), 5-speed Manual (330d, earlier), 6-speed Manual (later 330d)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed Steptronic Automatic (320d, 330d), 6-speed Steptronic Automatic (later 330d)
Automatic Features:
Tiptronic-style manual shifting mode
Body Styles:
Sedan (E46/4), Touring (E46/3), Coupe (E46/2), Convertible (E46/C), Hatchback (E46/5 - GT3)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2760 mm (Sedan/Coupe), 2730 mm (Touring)
Curb Weight 320D:
Approx. 1400-1550 kg (depending on body style and equipment)
Curb Weight 330D:
Approx. 1500-1650 kg (depending on body style and equipment)
Euro Ncap Rating:
4-star (early E46 models, later improved)
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags (optional/later models), crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell
Infotainment Systems:
BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD, optional navigation systems (e.g., Mk IV).
Driver Assistance Features:
Park Distance Control (PDC), Cruise Control.
Connectivity Options:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface, CD changer.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable interval (Condition Based Service - CBS), typically 15,000 - 30,000 km or 1-2 years, depending on driving conditions and oil quality.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years
Coolant Change:
Initial fill for life or every 4-5 years (BMW Blue coolant)
Engine Oil Spec 320D:
BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) compliant diesel engine oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-30.
Engine Oil Spec 330D:
BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) compliant diesel engine oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-30.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 specification, specific viscosity depends on transmission type (e.g., 75W-80, 75W-90).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
BMW LT-2 or LT-3 (or equivalent ATF specification like Dexron III/VI for certain transmissions).
Coolant Spec:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based).
Common Problems 320D 330D:
Turbocharger failure (variable geometry issues), injector problems, glow plug issues, swirl flap failure (M47/M57), EGR valve issues, VANOS solenoid issues (though less common on diesels), water pump leaks, cooling system component failures, suspension wear (bushings, ball joints), rear subframe cracking (less common on E46 than E36 but still possible), window regulator failures.
Brand History:
BMW, a German manufacturer renowned for producing luxury vehicles and motorcycles, with a strong heritage in sporty driving dynamics and engineering excellence.
E46 Generation:
The E46 is the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series, succeeding the E36 and preceding the E90. It was a significant step forward in design, technology, and driving refinement.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), but also plants in South Africa, Mexico, Thailand, and Egypt.
