Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible/Wagon
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300, Acura TL.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and engaging driving experience.
Powertrain Philosophy:
Inline-6 engines known for smooth power delivery and characteristic BMW performance.
Engine Coverage:
2.5L M54B25 Inline-6 Engine
Transmission Coverage:
5-speed Manual (Getrag S5D 320Z), 5-speed Automatic (ZF 5HP19)
Chassis Coverage:
All models equipped with the M54B25 engine, including Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, and Wagon (Touring) variants.
Estimated Pages:
1500-2000+
Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF), Printable
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission, clutch, differential.
Chassis:
Suspension (front/rear), steering, brakes (front/rear disc, ABS, DSC), wheels and tires, drivetrain (driveshafts, CV joints).
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting, instruments, power windows, mirrors, locks, climate control, diagnostic connector (OBD-II), DME (Digital Motor Electronics).
Body And Trim:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, convertible top mechanisms.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter service, brake pad/rotor replacement, tire rotation.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, diagnostic tool usage.
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, head gasket replacement, transmission rebuilds, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, bodywork.
Restoration:
Detailed instructions for disassembly, refurbishment, and reassembly of various vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and repair.
PDF Quality:
High-resolution, searchable text, bookmarked for easy navigation.
Print Readability:
Designed for clear printing of all diagrams, illustrations, and text.
Digital Access:
Instant download available.
Digital Features:
Hyperlinked sections for quick access to specific topics.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 (DOHC, 24 valves)
Displacement:
2494 cc (2.5 Liters)
Horsepower:
184 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
235 Nm (173 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI), Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)
ECU:
MS43 DME (Digital Motor Electronics)
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag S5D 320Z)
Type:
5-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (ZF 5HP19)
Rwd Bias:
Rear-wheel drive platform.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent GL-4 75W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 (or equivalent ATF type 'A' specification)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-star
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-star
Traction Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard on most models.
Braking System:
4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side airbags, optional head protection airbags.
Seatbelts:
Pretensioning seatbelts with force limiters.
Head Unit Options:
Various BMW Professional CD radios, optional navigation systems (MKIV).
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio.
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear.
Bluetooth:
Optional BMW Assist with Bluetooth integration.
Headlights:
Standard Halogen headlights, optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights.
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically suggests every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific CBS reset procedures.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically at 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type). Manual specifies exact interval and part numbers (e.g., NGK BKR6EQUP).
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 compliant synthetic oil, 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (BMW part number 82111468085 or equivalent)
Cooling System Weaknesses:
Plastic expansion tank and water pump prone to cracking. Vanos (Variable Valve Timing) seal wear can cause rough idle or loss of power.
Suspension Wear:
Control arm bushings and rear shock mounts can wear out, leading to clunks or poor handling.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket are common leak points.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing sporty, driver-focused luxury vehicles.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) is considered a benchmark for compact executive car dynamics and build quality.
Model Years E46:
1998-2006 (with significant updates for 2001 facelift).
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany, Austria, South Africa, Thailand, Russia, India, China.
