🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Variant:

330i

Model Suffix:

330

Year:

2000

Chassis Code:

E46

Generation Designation:

Second Generation E46

Engine Code:

M54B30

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan

Target Audience:

Consumers seeking a sporty, luxurious, and well-engineered driving experience.

Primary Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS300, Acura TL.

Handling:

Renowned for its excellent balance, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and responsive steering.

Powertrain:

Smooth and powerful inline-six engine known for its refinement and performance.

Build Quality:

Typical BMW high-quality interior materials and solid construction.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

BMW 330i (E46 chassis)

Model Years Covered:

2000

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds (exact count varies by specific manual version)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)

Content Type:

Diagnostic, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Specifications

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of the M54B30 engine.

Engine Management:

Engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensors, actuators, fuel injection, ignition system.

Transmission Manual:

SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) and standard manual gearbox repair, clutch system, drivetrain.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission (e.g., GM 5L40-E) diagnosis, repair, fluid, torque converter.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment.

Brakes:

Brake system components (ABS, DSC), hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors, pads, bleeding procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column.

Electrical System:

Complete vehicle wiring diagrams, component location, fuses, relays, battery, charging system.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, doors, windows, sunroof, chassis diagnostics.

Climate Control:

HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belt pre-tensioners, diagnostics.

Infotainment And Comfort:

Radio, navigation system (if equipped), power seats, mirrors, windows, central locking.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks.

Component Replacement:

Detailed steps for replacing major and minor components across all systems.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Systematic diagnostic procedures and fault code explanations.

Engine Rebuild:

Comprehensive instructions for complete engine overhauls.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Using wiring diagrams to diagnose electrical faults.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Alignment procedures, component replacement.

Brake System Service:

Pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, fluid flush.

Climate Control Repair:

Leak detection, component replacement, system evacuation and recharge.

Depth Level:

Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.

Diagnostic Tools:

References diagnostic procedures often requiring BMW-specific scan tools (e.g., DIS, ISTA).

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of special tools required for specific repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within the PDF for efficient information retrieval.

Print Resolution:

Designed for clear printing of text, diagrams, and illustrations.

Printable:

Yes, allows for printing of selected pages or the entire manual.

Binding Style:

N/A (Digital PDF download, binding would be user's choice upon printing).

Paper Recommendation:

Recommended for printing on standard paper; diagrams may benefit from higher quality stock.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M54B30

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder

Displacement:

2,979 cc (3.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 89.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Horsepower:

225 hp @ 6,000 RPM

Torque:

214 lb-ft (290 Nm) @ 3,500 RPM

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch Motronic ME 7.2

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Emission Control:

Dual catalytic converters, Oxygen (O2) sensors, Secondary Air Injection System (SAI).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 420G)

Type:

5-Speed Automatic Transmission with Steptronic (GM 5L40-E)

Sequential Manual:

5-Speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) - Optional on some models

Drivetrain:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

Differential:

Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) available as an option or part of M Sport packages.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.4 inches (4,506 mm)

Width:

68.5 inches (1,740 mm)

Height:

55.5 inches (1,410 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.3 inches (2,725 mm)

Front Track:

58.5 inches (1,486 mm)

Rear Track:

59.2 inches (1,504 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,373 - 3,527 lbs (1,530 - 1,600 kg) depending on transmission and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4/5 Stars (Driver), 4/5 Stars (Passenger) - 2001 Model Year Equivalent Testing

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable (1999-2004 E46 Series testing)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Standard Automatic Stability Control (ASC) or Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard or optional depending on market/package.

Airbags:

Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), Side-impact airbags (optional/standard depending on market).

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory BMW Professional Radio/Cassette or CD Player, with optional premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon).

Navigation:

Optional BMW Business or Professional Navigation system (Mk III or Mk IV era).

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear Park Distance Control (PDC).

Phone Integration:

Optional BMW Assist or Bluetooth preparation (limited functionality by modern standards).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, but depends on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.

Air Filter:

Inspect every 30,000 miles, replace as needed or every 60,000 miles.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 60,000 miles (long-life plugs).

Coolant Flush:

Replace coolant every 4 years or approximately 50,000 miles. Use BMW-approved coolant.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic; BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved oil recommended.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

BMW MTF-LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Red Line D4 ATF for shifter feel, but consult manual for strict OEM spec).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

BMW LT-2 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or Dexron III/VI equivalent. Specific type depends on transmission model, consult manual.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) or DOT 5.1.

Coolant:

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

Cooling System:

Plastic expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; water pumps and thermostats can fail.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, oil pan gasket are common leak points.

Suspension Bushings:

Front control arm bushings (RTABs - Rear Trailing Arm Bushings) and sway bar bushings can wear out, affecting handling.

Ccv System:

Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system can clog, leading to oil consumption and gasket leaks.

ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:

Can fail, triggering ABS and DSC warning lights.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Philosophy:

BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos emphasizing performance, handling, and driver engagement.

Predecessor:

BMW 328i (E36 generation)

Generation Introduction:

The E46 generation was introduced for the 1999 model year in Europe and 2000 in North America.

330I Introduction:

The 330i designation replaced the 328i for the 2001 model year (in the US market) with the introduction of the M54 engine. The 2000 model year covered by this manual refers to the 328i or potentially early production 330i models depending on market specific release dates. *Clarification: Typically, the 330i model designation with the M54 engine began for the 2001 model year in most markets. If this manual specifically states '2000', it might cover the late E36 328i or very early E46 330i depending on exact production runs and market introductions.*

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (primarily Munich, Dingolfing), South Africa, Thailand, Russia, India, Brazil, China.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The E46 generation, including models like the 330i, was frequently recognized on Car and Driver's 10 Best lists during its production run.

Auto Motor Und Sport Best Cars:

Consistently ranked highly in European automotive publications for its driving dynamics and engineering.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Varied reliability ratings throughout its life cycle, often dependent on specific components and maintenance history. Manual is crucial for proper upkeep.