Market Positioning:
The E46 3 Series was positioned as a premium compact executive sedan and coupe, renowned for its driving dynamics, build quality, and sophisticated engineering, competing with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W202 C-Class, Audi B5 A4, Lexus IS200, Alfa Romeo 155.
Key Features Vehicle:
Rear-wheel drive platform, balanced chassis, driver-focused interior, inline-six engine reputation for smoothness and power delivery.
Engines Covered:
All Engine Variants for 325i model
Transmission Types Covered:
All Transmission Types (Manual and Automatic)
Trim Levels Covered:
All Trim Levels
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Manual Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Manual Completeness:
This is a comprehensive workshop manual, covering all aspects of service, maintenance, and repair for the specified vehicle.
Powertrain:
Engine (M52B25), Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain (Transmission, Driveshafts, Differential)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS)
Electrical:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Ignition System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Body Control Module (BCM)
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Climate Control System
Climate Control:
Manual and automatic climate control systems, A/C system servicing, heater core replacement, blower motor diagnosis.
Maintenance:
Routine Service Intervals, Fluid Checks & Replacements, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection & Replacement
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Electrical System Diagnostics, Engine Performance Issues
Repair Replacement:
Engine Component Rebuilds, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Replacement, Body Panel Repair
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized BMW tools for specific procedures
Electrical Schematics:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all major vehicle systems, including engine management, lighting, power accessories, and safety systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive - from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Diagnostic Tools Coverage:
Information pertaining to using BMW's diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1, DIS) and interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Engine Type:
2.5L DOHC Inline-6
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Horsepower:
189 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
181 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Engine Control Unit:
Bosch Motronic ME 7.2 (or similar)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual coil-on-plug ignition.
Valve Actuation:
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves (4 per cylinder), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission
Transmission Features:
Rear-wheel drive, limited-slip differential available on some models.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends specific synthetic manual transmission fluids (e.g., ATF Dexron III or equivalent).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends specific synthetic ATF fluids (e.g., ATF Dexron III or equivalent).
Length:
Approx. 4,471 mm (176.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,739 mm (68.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,415 mm (55.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,725 mm (107.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,480 - 1,550 kg (3,263 - 3,417 lbs), depending on configuration.
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 440 liters (15.5 cu ft)
Front Headroom:
Approx. 980 mm (38.6 in)
Front Legroom:
Approx. 1,040 mm (40.9 in)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
4/5 stars (1999 Model Year)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) (optional on some models)
Passive Safety Features:
Frontal Airbags, Side-impact Protection System (SIPS), Crumple Zones, Seatbelt Pretensioners.
Chassis Safety Design:
Advanced chassis design with a focus on occupant protection and handling stability.
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Limited early-generation navigation systems may have been available.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, rear parking sensors (optional on some models).
Connectivity Options:
Analog radio reception, optional analog cellular phone integration on some higher-spec models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to Condition Based Service (CBS) or manual recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000 miles (check specific recommendations).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as per manual. BMW Blue coolant is typically used.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic Engine Oil meeting BMW LL-01 or LL-98 specifications.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol-based, mixed 50/50 with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or BMW's specified power steering fluid.
Common Issues Engine:
VANOS solenoid issues, oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket, coolant expansion tank cracks.
Common Issues Cooling:
Water pump failures, thermostat housing leaks, radiator leaks.
Common Issues Suspension:
Control arm bushings wear, rear shock mounts failure, subframe bushings fatigue.
Common Issues Electrical:
Window regulator failures, MAF sensor issues, ABS wheel speed sensor failures.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter HU 821 / 1x or Mahle OX 104/1DE (check for exact fitment)
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter C 35 177 or Mahle LX 588 (check for exact fitment)
Brand Heritage:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing sporty, driver-oriented luxury vehicles with a strong emphasis on engineering and performance since its inception.
E46 Generation Introduction:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 1998 for the 1999 model year, succeeding the E36 generation. It marked a significant evolution in design, technology, and driving dynamics.
Production Years E46:
1998-2006 (global), with the 325i model being prominent throughout this period.
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The E46 3 Series, including models like the 325i, was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production run, lauded for its handling and performance.
Value Retention:
The E46 generation is known for holding its value well relative to its segment, indicative of its desirability and build quality.
