🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

328i

Year:

2000

Chassis Code:

E46

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW 3 Series (E46) was a benchmark in the compact executive sedan market, known for its driving dynamics and premium feel. The 328i, with its potent inline-six engine, represented a strong balance of performance and refinement within the E46 lineup.

Competitors:

Competed directly with the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS300, and Infiniti G20 during its production run.

Vehicle Features:

Rear-wheel drive bias, near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution, premium interior materials, advanced chassis engineering for its era.

Value:

Provides DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics with the detailed information necessary to maintain and repair the 2000 BMW 328i accurately and efficiently, potentially saving significant costs associated with dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

All 328i engine variants for 2000 model year

Transmission Coverage:

Automatic and Manual transmissions

System Coverage:

Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust, HVAC, brakes, steering, suspension, driveline, chassis, interior, exterior, body electrical, safety systems (airbags, ABS)

Estimated Pages:

1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive software)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (likely a digital format like PDF or proprietary application)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul procedures, component testing, diagnostics, torque specifications, timing procedures

Engine Management And Electrical:

ECU functions, sensor diagnostics, ignition system, starting system, charging system, wiring diagrams, component locations

Fuel And Emission Controls:

Fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, evaporative emission control (EVAP), catalytic converter, oxygen sensors

Transmission And Drivetrain:

Automatic Transmission (GM 5L40-E), Manual Transmission (Getrag 420G), clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures

Steering And Suspension:

Power steering system, rack and pinion, control arms, ball joints, shock absorbers, springs, sway bars

Chassis And Body:

Frame, subframes, body panels, door mechanisms, glass replacement, seals

HVAC:

Climate control system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, blower motor, evaporator, heater core

Body Electrical And Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, central locking

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seatbelt pre-tensioners, SRS module diagnostics

Cooling And Exhaust Systems:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan clutch, exhaust manifolds, mufflers, emissions components

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, brake servicing

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC interpretation, testing procedures for all major systems

Repair And Rebuild:

Engine component replacement, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component repair

Installation And Adjustment:

Component installation (e.g., new sensors, alternators), calibration procedures where applicable

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Software (Digital)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable, allowing quick access to specific topics

Accessibility:

Instant download/access upon purchase

Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M52TU (M52B28TU)

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2793 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 90.0 mm

Horsepower:

190 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

206 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME 7.2)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)

Cooling Type:

Liquid-cooled, pressurized system

Oil Capacity:

6.5 Liters (with filter) / SAE 5W-30 Synthetic

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G)

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic (GM 5L40-E)

Traction Control:

Available ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF Dexron III or equivalent (e.g., Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF, Valvoline MaxLife ATF)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF2)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.4 inches (4505 mm)

Width:

69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height:

55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.3 inches (2725 mm)

Curb Weight:

3370 - 3470 lbs (1529 - 1574 kg) depending on transmission and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4475 lbs (2030 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact:

4 Stars

Traction Control:

ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction)

Stability Control:

Optional DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) on later models/packages

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side-impact airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point front seatbelts with pre-tensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and body structure

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit Options:

BMW Business CD or Professional CD/RDS head units, optional navigation system.

Audio System:

Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC).

Phone Integration:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free preparation with cradle.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system or approximately 7,500 - 10,000 miles / 12 months (using synthetic oil)

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically 60,000 - 100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years (regardless of mileage)

Engine Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW PSF-Z

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4

Cooling System:

Plastic expansion tank can become brittle and crack; water pump failure (plastic impeller); thermostat housing leaks; radiator leaks.

Engine:

Oil pan gasket leaks; CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system can clog leading to oil leaks and rough idle; VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) unit can develop noise or malfunction.

Suspension:

Control arm bushings wear out leading to 'clunking' and poor handling; rear shock mounts can fail.

Electrical:

ABS/DSC wheel speed sensor failures; blower motor resistor failure; tailgate microswitch failure.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's reputation for building driver-focused, sporty sedans with excellent engineering and a premium feel.

E46 Generation:

The E46 generation (1998-2006) was a significant evolution from the E36, offering improved styling, chassis dynamics, and technological advancements.

Production Years E46:

1998-2006 (Global), 2000 model year specifically for 328i

Engines In E46 328I:

The 328i was produced from 1999-2000, featuring the M52TU engine. It was succeeded by the 330i (with the M54 engine) in 2001.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Ten Best:

The E46 generation consistently ranked on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists during its production, highlighting its enduring appeal and performance.

Consumer Reports:

Generally received good ratings for performance and reliability, though specific model years and common issues require attention as noted in maintenance sections.