Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible
Reputation:
Known for sporty handling, refined interiors, and a driver-focused experience.
Primary Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35
Handling:
Renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' handling characteristics.
Engine Smoothness:
M54 inline-six engine celebrated for its smooth operation and sound.
Interior Quality:
High-quality materials and driver-centric ergonomics.
Primary Coverage:
Complete Factory Service and Repair
Additional Coverage:
Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Repair
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM)
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine:
M54B25 Engine - Mechanical, Fuel, Ignition, Emission Control, Cooling, Lubrication
Transmission:
GM A5S360R/A5S390R (5-Speed Automatic), Getrag 420G (6-Speed Manual)
Drivetrain:
Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) and xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD) - Differentials, Axles, Driveshafts
Suspension:
Front McPherson Strut, Rear Multi-link Suspension - Components, Alignment, Bushings
Brakes:
Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)
Steering:
Hydraulic Power Steering System
Electrical:
Full Electrical Schematics, Body Control Module (BCM), DME (Digital Motor Electronics), EWS (Electronic Immobilizer System)
HVAC:
Automatic Climate Control System, Refrigerant, Components
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Sunroof
Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Brake Fluid Flush, Coolant Flush
Diagnostics:
OBD-II Diagnostics, Fault Code Interpretation, Live Data Analysis
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing all major and minor components
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and diagnostic parameters
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced: Includes wiring diagrams, component testing, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Format Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Fully Searchable Text
Resolution:
High Resolution (Suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual)
Binding Type For Printed:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type For Printed:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Engine Type:
Inline-6 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2494 cc (2.5 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 24 Valves, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
189 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)
Type:
5-Speed Automatic (GM A5S360R/A5S390R)
Type:
6-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G)
Automatic Modes:
Standard Drive (D), Sport (S), Sequential Manual Shift (SMS) on some models.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (BMW Part No. 83 22 0 026 922)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 (BMW Part No. 83 22 9 408 071) or equivalent
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Dsc:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control
Traction Control:
Standard Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T)
Airbags Front:
Standard Dual Front Airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional Front Side-Impact Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point Inertia Reel Seatbelts with Pretensioners
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD or Professional CD radio, optional navigation system.
Speaker System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon audio.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Telematics:
Optional BMW Assist telematics system.
Key Fob:
Remote central locking and immobilizer (EWS) system.
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) typically recommends every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000 - 45,000 miles or as per CBS.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type, e.g., iridium).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Coolant Flush:
BMW Long-Life Coolant, typically every 4 years or 60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW LL-01 or LL-04 specification).
Coolant Type:
BMW Engine Coolant/Antifreeze (G48) - Blue
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent (BMW Part No. 82 11 0 142 818)
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank cracking, water pump failure (plastic impeller), thermostat housing leaks.
Vacuum Leaks:
Cracked vacuum hoses and intake manifold gaskets can cause rough idle and performance issues.
Oil Separator System:
Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system failure can lead to oil consumption and seal leaks.
Suspension Components:
Front control arm bushings and ball joints, rear subframe bushings wear out.
Window Regulators:
Plastic components can break, causing windows to drop.
ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:
Common failure point leading to ABS and DSC warning lights.
Brand Focus:
BMW's heritage is built on performance, engineering, and luxury.
E46 Generation Introduction:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 1998 (Europe) and 1999 (North America) as the successor to the E36.
E46 Facelift:
The E46 underwent a significant facelift in 2001, with minor styling and feature updates for the 2000 model year.
Production Period:
1999-2006 (E46 Generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Main), South Africa, Thailand, Russia, India, China, Brazil
Car And Driver Otr:
Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run.
Motortrend Otr:
MotorTrend Car of the Year contender.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varied reliability ratings historically, with specific known issues needing attention. Manual is key for preventative maintenance.